The Michigan Supreme Court heard arguments on whether it was legal for the state Legislature to adopt citizen-led ballot initiatives last year…and then quickly change them. Cheyna Roth was in court for the proceedings.
State Solicitor General Fadwa Hammoud argued against the “adopt and amend” move. She said the Legislature thwarted the will of the people who signed the initiatives.
“This would create a permanent escape route for the Legislature, for the people to never get their voice through initiative power.”
But Deputy Solicitor General Eric Restuccia said there’s nothing in the constitution that prevents the move. And there’s a solution if voters don’t like what the Legislature does.
“If you’re concerned, the people should throw the rascals out.”
The state’s highest court hasn’t said whether it will issue an advisory opinion in the case.
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—Cheyna Roth is a reporter for the Michigan Public Radio network. Contact WEMU News at734.487.3363 or email us at studio@wemu.org
