Representative Ann Bollin (R-Brighton) introduced a House Joint Resolution to allow stricter penalties for unethical behavior and excessive absenteeism among legislators.
“The people of Michigan deserve elected officials who prioritize their interests, and my proposal is a significant step in that direction,” Representative Bollin said. “In order to maintain the trust and confidence of the people we serve, we must hold ourselves to the highest standards of ethical conduct.”
Key Points:
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- The Michigan House and Senate would have the authority to suspend the salary and expense allowances of any legislator engaged in unethical conduct or with a demonstrated pattern of excessive absenteeism.
- If enacted, a supermajority of members in the legislature could enact the penalties for a member elected and serving in the same body.
- The proposal does not clarify what could be considered unethical conduct or excessive absenteeism.
Next steps:
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- The resolution was referred to the House Government Operations Committee for consideration.
- If the proposal receives support from two-thirds of legislators in both chambers it would be placed on the ballot before Michigan voters.
