Policy

Mich. lawmakers divided over financial disclosure legislation

Voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot initiative last year that requires the legislature to implement the rules.
Michigan state Sen. Winnie Brinks (D) stands before reporters in the state Capitol in Lansing, Mich., on Thursday, Nov. 10, 2022, minutes after Senate Democrats voted to make her the chamber’s first female leader. (Joey Cappelletti/Report for America via AP)

Facing a deadline to pass sweeping new ethics rules voters called on them to produce last year, Michigan lawmakers are divided over early legislative drafts, including Gov. Gretchen Whimter (D) favoring a controversial exemption for spouses while others want to close the loophole.

A House package unveiled Thursday mirrors a recently introduced Senate measure that would require state lawmakers to report details of their finances. Beginning on April 15 lawmakers would have to disclose every source of their income, assets held for investment or production of income, significant liabilities, positions held in organizations, future employment agreements and their spouse’s occupation.

Stay informed
Subscribe to keep reading.

Sign up today to get the latest state new at your fingertips and in your inbox.