Gag Order Cleanup Bill Introduced in MI House

A measure to clear up a controversial bill that passed the Michigan legislature at the end of the 2015 legislative session is still in the cards in 2016 however it may not go as far as some would like.

Local governments say the legislation, which is now law, would place a gag order on communicating ballot issues with voters.

It prohibits using taxpayer dollars to send out information about ballot issues, such as a millage, within 60 days of an election.

House Speaker Kevin Cotter says they can still do that – but not by using mass mailings or automated phone calls that blur the line between education and advocacy.

The governor signed the bill into law in early January with the caveat lawmakers clear up the language in 2016.

The cleanup legislation was formally introduced Thursday in the Michigan House.