Under Half of Local Officials Back Michigan's EM Law

Ahead of a November ballot referendum to repeal Michigan’s emergency management law, a new survey shows that 38% of local officials support it.

Roughly 30% oppose the law, 21% are neutral, and 11% are unsure, according to the survey, which was conducted by the University of Michigan’s School of Public Policy.

Public Act 4 significantly strengthens the state’s role in intervening in and governing distressed communities. Unlike the state’s previous law, it allows emergency managers to amend or terminate labor contracts.

Critics of the controversial law this summer gathered enough signatures to ask voters whether they want to retain the law or overturn it.

The question will appear on the state’s November ballot.

The University of Michigan survey shows that 43% of local officials said they believe the law will be effective at helping to restore local government fiscal health, while 19% said it would not be effective.

Half of the respondents said they supported the provision allowing for unilateral changes to union contracts, while 30% opposed it.

A total of 1,329 jurisdictions returned valid surveys, according to reports.

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Michigan
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