Judge strikes down Michigan’s ballot drive law
LANSING (AP) — A Michigan judge on Friday struck down a new requirement that makes it harder to initiate ballot drives by limiting the number of signatures that can be counted from a single congressional district.
Court of Claims Judge Cynthia Stephens ruled that the plain language of the state constitution does not support the imposition of a geographic requirement.
The law was approved by the Republican-led Legislature and then-Gov. Rick Snyder in last year's lame-duck session.
It says no more than 15 percent of petition signatures can be counted from any one of the state's 14 congressional districts. There is no geographic limit in the state constitution.
A lawsuit was filed in May by the League of Women Voters of Michigan and others who said lawmakers cannot amend the constitution with legislation and contended the 15 percent requirement would dramatically increase the cost and difficulty of mounting a successful citizen petition campaign.
The law is backed by business groups and GOP lawmakers who say it adds transparency and accountability to the petition-gathering process and ensures statewide input earlier on ballot drives funded by out-of-state interests.
Democratic Attorney General Dana Nessel previously said the 15 percent limit and other portions of the law are unconstitutional.
State election officials are complying with her opinion, but appellate courts will have the final say.
FBA Judicial Family Reunion scheduled for October 17
The Law Clerk Committee of the Federal Bar Association (FBA), Eastern District of Michigan Chapter, will host a Judicial Family Reunion on Thursday, Oct. 17, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Honigman’s Detroit offices, 660 Woodward Ave.
Judges along with fellow and former law clerks will have an opportunity to socialize and enjoy hors d’oeuvres. Parking will be provided.
Cost for the event is $20 for FBA members and $30 for non-members. Registration is required by Oct. 7. Judges can register with Kim Altman at kimberly_altman@mieduscourts.gov or 313-234-5163.
Former and current clerks can register online at www.fbamich.org and clicking on “events.”
Critics of university’s speech, bias policies win appeal
ANN ARBOR (AP) — A federal appeals court has ruled against the University of Michigan in a free-speech challenge to a team that responds to bias complaints.
A judge had rejected a request for a preliminary injunction. But the appeals court told Judge Linda Parker to take another look in a recent 2-1 decision.
Students belonging to a group called Speech First are objecting to a so-called bias response team at the University of Michigan. The team responds to conduct that discriminates, harasses or harms anyone based on identity. Critics say the team can be intimidating and quash free speech.
The university says the team offers support and has no disciplinary power. But it can refer matters to police or administrators.
Appeals court Judge David McKeague says referrals are a consequence that “objectively chills speech.”
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