Mount Clemens adopts resolution opposing Public Act 269, citing limits on local ballot information

The Mount Clemens City Commission on Feb. 1 adopted a resolution opposing Public Act 269 of 2015, a state law that limits communications by local governments about ballot issues during the 60 days before an election.

City staff told the commission that the prohibition applies to local ballot issues and “deprives the county, municipality, or school district the ability to keep its residents fully informed on election questions that directly affect them.” A commissioner noted that state lawmakers have introduced companion bills that would permit public bodies to share factual information about legislation up for a public vote, but the resolution was presented as a formal local objection to the existing law.

The motion to adopt the resolution passed by roll call vote; commissioners cited concerns about restrictions on civic communication while acknowledging work at the state level to clarify permissible factual reporting by public bodies. The resolution does not change local practice immediately but formally records the city’s opposition and can be used in advocacy or intergovernmental correspondence.

The commission voted to adopt the resolution; roll-call votes were recorded in the meeting minutes.