2024 House Bill 5699

Elections: local; term of office start date for township officers; modify.

A bill to amend 1954 PA 116, entitled “Michigan election law,” by amending sections 362 and 370 (MCL 168.362 and 168.370), section 362 as amended by 1980 PA 112 and section 370 as amended by 2022 PA 104.

AI Analysis – Experimental

The bill sets a four-year term for all township officers, effective from 1980, and outlines the start dates and qualification requirements for officers elected before and after December 31, 2024. It details procedures for filling vacancies in township offices, either through appointments by the township board or, if not filled within certain timeframes, through special elections called by the county clerk. Special elections require county party committees to nominate candidates, with the election held on the next regular election date following the nomination period. Elected individuals will serve the remainder of the unexpired term, with an exception for the office of township constable, which may be left vacant or filled by appointment until the next election.

Introduced in the House

May 1, 2024

Introduced by Rep. Penelope Tsernoglou (D-75) and 12 co-sponsors

Co-sponsored by Reps. Veronica Paiz (D-11), Carrie Rheingans (D-47), Matt Koleszar (D-22), Kara Hope (D-74), Felicia Brabec (D-33), Joey Andrews (D-38), Jennifer Conlin (D-48), Sharon MacDonell (D-56), Jason Morgan (D-23), Carol Glanville (D-84), Erin Byrnes (D-15) and Jim Haadsma (D-44)

Referred to the Committee on Elections

May 14, 2024

Reported without amendment

June 26, 2024

Passed in the House 109 to 0 (details)

Motion to give immediate effect by Rep. Jimmie Wilson (D-32)

The motion prevailed by voice vote

Received in the Senate

June 26, 2024

Referred to the Committee on Elections and Ethics