State Rep. Ann Bollin’s plan to increase accountability in Michigan’s legislative process took a crucial step forward today as the House Government Operations Committee voted to advance House Joint Resolution A.
HJR A would amend the Michigan Constitution to require a two-thirds majority vote in both the House and Senate for any bill passed during a “lame duck” session — the period following a November election in even-numbered years. This safeguard would prevent rushed, politically motivated legislation from being pushed through by outgoing lawmakers who are no longer accountable to voters.
“Lame-duck sessions have been used to force through controversial policies that wouldn’t stand a chance under the full scrutiny of voters,” said Bollin, R-Brighton Township. “This reform is about restoring integrity and ensuring that the will of the people guides the decisions made in Lansing.”
Bollin’s plan would still allow essential legislation to move forward when necessary but would require broad, bipartisan agreement to do so.
“Too often, politicians try to avoid accountability — whether it’s by forcing something through in lame duck or by taking the cowardly route and waiting until after an election to act, hoping voters won’t notice,” Bollin said. “We must make it clear that lawmakers should be accountable for every vote they take, every time.”
If approved by two-thirds of the Legislature, HJR A would go before Michigan voters for final approval.
Bollin also recently led the House in adopting a plan to improve financial disclosure requirements and increase transparency in the state budgeting process.
