Livingston Today

In light of a Michigan Supreme Court decision allowing 582 convicted murderers to seek resentencing, State Representative Ann Bollin is preparing legislation to alter court funding in support of local prosecutors. Bollin, who chairs the House Appropriations Committee, described the court's move as "reckless and retroactive," raising concerns about community safety and the impact on victims' families.

Bollin, a Republican from Brighton Township, voiced her disapproval, stating, “These are adults who made the conscious choice to take another person’s life. They were tried, convicted, and sentenced appropriately. Now, the court wants to give them a do-over.”

The court ruling affects those who were 19 or 20 at the time of committing first-degree murder, removing automatic life without parole sentences. This retroactive decision provides a 180-day period for prosecutors to file motions to maintain the original sentences. Without action within this timeframe, the individuals may face resentencing, potentially allowing early or immediate release. Bollin criticized the timeline, stating, “The 180-day window is unrealistic and dangerous.”

To address these concerns, Bollin intends to reduce funding for the Michigan Supreme Court and the State Court Administrative Office. This redirected budget aims to support county prosecutors in managing the new workload. Bollin declared, “If the Michigan Supreme Court wants to upend the justice system and force communities to relive horrific crimes, they’re going to have to tighten their budget.”

The legislative move aims to ensure local prosecutors are equipped to manage the implications of the court's decision and uphold public safety.