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Bill

HJR P

Criminal procedure: other; process of determining rebellion or invasion; clarify. Amends sec. 12, art. I of the state constitution.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Noah Arbit and 13 co-sponsors

Michigan constitutional amendment clarifying procedures for suspending rights during rebellion or invasion, pending committee review and voter approval.

joint resolution electronically reproduced 09/11/2025
#constitutionalamendments:state #criminalprocedure:other
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Bill Summary · HJR P

Legislative bill overview

HJR P proposes an amendment to Michigan's state constitution regarding Section 12, Article I, which deals with criminal procedure and the constitutional process for determining rebellion or invasion. The bill aims to clarify the language or procedures governing how the state may suspend certain constitutional protections during extraordinary circumstances. This is a constitutional amendment resolution, meaning it requires legislative approval and voter ratification to take effect.

Why is this important

Constitutional provisions governing emergency powers and the suspension of rights during rebellion or invasion represent fundamental checks on government authority. Clarifying this language could affect how Michigan responds to genuine emergencies, but also has implications for civil liberties protections during crises. The stakes involve balancing public safety needs against constitutional safeguards that normally protect individual rights.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "rebellion" and "invasion" definitions — Unclear how broadly these terms would be interpreted, potentially affecting what circumstances justify suspending constitutional protections
  • Emergency power expansion concerns — Critics may worry that clarification could inadvertently broaden government authority to restrict rights during emergencies
  • Lack of specificity in bill summary — The resolution's actual language isn't detailed here, making it difficult to assess whether changes strengthen or weaken civil liberties protections

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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