Michigan Court Rules House Must Present Nine Held Bills to Governor

A Michigan Court of Appeals panel ruled that the Republican-controlled House must present nine bills passed during the previous legislative session to Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for her signature, emphasizing that the state constitution mandates this action without discretion. These bills, originally approved by the Legislature but withheld by House Speaker Matt Hall at the start of 2025, include measures on public employee health insurance costs, pension qualifications for state corrections officers, and funding for Detroit museums. The ruling sends the case back to a lower court with orders to compel the House to act, marking a legal victory for Senate Democrats who sued over the delay. House Republicans have not indicated whether they will appeal the decision to the Michigan Supreme Court. Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks praised the decision as a reinforcement of constitutional adherence despite political differences, while the House has remained silent on their next steps. The court's decision highlights tensions between the legislative chambers and underscores the constitutional obligation to process passed legislation promptly.