Michigan Voting Rights Act Advances in Legislature

The Michigan Voting Rights Act, comprising four bills aimed at expanding voting rights, has advanced after a party-line vote in the House Elections Committee. Proponents emphasize the need for these protections in light of recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions that have weakened the federal Voting Rights Act. Key features of the proposed legislation include providing ballots in multiple languages and codifying protections for voters with disabilities. However, local election clerks express concerns about the financial implications, estimating the costs could reach $15 million, which would largely fall on the Department of State rather than local jurisdictions. With Democrats losing control of the House in January, advocates warn that this may be the last opportunity to pass the bills. If enacted, the legislation would represent a significant shift in Michigan's election laws, building on previous voter-approved measures.