LANSING, MI (AP)-- A bill sent to Governor Rick Snyder would prohibit local governments from spending money to inform the public about ballot proposals within 60 days of an election.
Critics are calling it a sweeping ban that could stop officials from answering basic questions from the public. The Detroit Free Press says the Michigan Municipal League is urging Snyder to veto the bill, which has other provisions about campaign finance.
There already are restrictions on local governments using persuasive language ahead of a millage vote. But the Michigan Association of Counties says voters have a right to know the reasons why something is on the ballot.
Representative Al Pscholka, a Stevensville Republican, says the bill's contents have been discussed for a long time and any additions made Wednesday night were minor.
