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Local government and school officials are challenging a recently passed state law that blocks them from discussing ballot proposals 60 days before an election.
Scott Eldridge, the lawyer representing the group bringing the lawsuit, says the measure is a gag order preventing public officials from addressing their constituents about matters of local concern.
He says it violates their right to free speech.
When Governor Snyder signed the bill, he asked for follow up legislation to clarify the law. So far just one hearing has been held on a House bill that would allow ballot language to be sent to voters.
Michigan Municipal League President and Dearborn Mayor Jack O’Reilly says with so many communities locked out of telling voters about issues on the March 8th ballot, they can no longer wait on a legislative fix.
Secretary of State Ruth Johnson and the State of Michigan are listed as defendants in the case filed in U.S. District Court in Detroit.
