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Bill

HB 4698

Elections: local; term of office for elected officials; modify. Amends 1909 PA 278 (MCL 78.1 - 78.28) by adding sec. 24e.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Greg Alexander and 3 co-sponsors

Michigan bill modifies local elected officials' term lengths through new state election code provision; specific term changes and application scope require committee review.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON ELECTIONS AND ETHICS
#elections:local #villages:homerule
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Bill Summary · HB 4698

Legislative bill overview

HB 4698 amends Michigan's election law (1909 PA 278) by adding Section 24e, which modifies the term of office for elected officials at the local level. The bill passed the Michigan House with immediate effect on September 9, 2025, and has been referred to the Senate Committee on Elections and Ethics for further consideration.

Why is this important

Local elected officials' term lengths directly affect electoral cycles, governance continuity, and voter engagement in communities. Changes to term limits or durations can influence political accountability, incumbent advantages, and the frequency with which constituents have opportunities to change local leadership.

Potential points of contention

  • Specific term length changes unclear: The bill summary does not specify whether terms are being lengthened, shortened, or made variable—making it difficult to assess whether the change favors incumbents or increases turnover
  • Statewide versus local control: Questions may arise about whether the state should mandate uniform term lengths or allow individual municipalities flexibility in setting their own terms
  • Retroactive application: Unclear whether existing officials' terms would be affected or if changes apply only to future elections, which could create fairness concerns

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

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