An Explanation of Senate Bill No. 374:

This bill, also known as Act No. 267, was approved by the Governor of Michigan on November 30, 2023. It is an amendment to the election laws of the state. The bill was introduced by several Senators.

Section 658 of the bill allows for the consolidation of election precincts in cities, wards, townships, or villages if there are fewer than 4,999 registered voters in that area. The election commission or other officials can make this decision by resolution, but it must be done no later than 120 days before a primary or election.

In Section 661, it states that city and township election commissions must divide precincts according to the law, no later than 210 days before the primary election preceding the general November election. If a precinct has not been divided by this time, the county clerk must notify the secretary of state, who will then make the necessary divisions at the expense of the city or township. The divisions must be made effective no later than 180 days before the primary election.

There is a provision in Section 661 that requires precincts to be divided every second year following each federal decennial census. The goal of this division is to ensure that precincts are not split between districts and that they do not exceed 4,999 registered voters. The city and township election commissions must notify the county clerk of the number of registered voters in each precinct, and the county clerk must notify the secretary of state if any precincts have not been divided. The division of precincts must be completed at least 90 days before the primary election.

Section 847a of the bill states that candidates for office must file a financial disclosure report with the Department of State before assuming office. This report is required by the candidate for office financial disclosure act.

The bill also includes an enacting section, which states that it will only take effect if another Senate Bill is enacted into law.

Approved by:

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Governor

Secretary of the Senate

Clerk of the House of Representatives

Elections: Other