WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 242

Elections: local; term of office for elected officials; modify. Amends secs. 4, 5 & 13, ch. II & sec. 3, ch. V of 1895 PA 3 (MCL 62.4 et seq.).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ruth Johnson and 2 co-sponsors

SB 242 modifies Michigan local elected officials' terms of office, passing the state Senate unanimously 37-0 on May 6, 2025.

referred to Committee on Election Integrity
#elections:local #villages:generallaw
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 242

Legislative bill overview

SB 242 modifies the terms of office for elected local officials in Michigan by amending provisions in the Michigan General Law of 1895. The bill passed the Michigan Senate on May 6, 2025, with unanimous support (37-0) and is now under review by the Committee on Election Integrity.

Why is this important

Changes to local official term lengths directly affect governance continuity, electoral cycles, and voter engagement at the municipal level. Term modifications can impact everything from budget planning horizons to the stability of local policy implementation, and may influence competitive dynamics in local elections.

Potential points of contention

  • Specific term length changes: The bill text doesn't specify whether terms are being shortened or lengthened, which would have vastly different implications for incumbent protection versus electoral competition
  • Grandfather clause timing: Whether current officeholders are grandfathered under old terms or subject to new ones immediately could be controversial
  • Consistency across office types: Different local positions (mayors, council members, treasurers) may be affected differently, potentially creating unequal treatment or administrative confusion

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

Sign in to ask a question.