Livingston Today

State Representatives Ann Bollin and Andrew Fink have called on House Committee on Government Operations Chairman Tullio Liberati to review House Joint Resolution Q. This proposed constitutional amendment aims to require a two-thirds legislative approval for bills considered during lame-duck sessions in Michigan.

The resolution is designed to prevent the use of lame-duck sessions for passing controversial legislation that might not otherwise gain support due to potential voter backlash. In their letter, Bollin and Fink emphasize, "Popular government depends upon the people holding their elected representatives accountable for their actions." They argue that HJR Q would ensure accountability by curbing what they see as an abuse of the legislative process.

Andrew Fink stated, “This isn’t a partisan issue. Republicans will be at the helm in the House next term, and we still believe this proposed amendment is the best course of action for the people of Michigan represented by the Legislature.” He further urged that at minimum, public discussion should be allowed through committee testimony rather than ignoring the proposal.

Ann Bollin noted that this measure had previously passed with strong bipartisan support but criticized some Democrats for not backing it now. “Some of the very same Democrats who supported it then refused to sign onto the letter now,” she remarked.

The proposal has garnered support from 22 other representatives since being referred to the committee on April 23. However, despite these efforts, HJR Q remains pending without consideration.