2026 House Bill 5717

Elections: election officials; township to contract with an accredited individual to perform election law duties in the absence of a township clerk; authorize.

A bill to amend 1954 PA 116, entitled “Michigan election law,” by amending section 373 (MCL 168.373).

AI Analysis – Experimental

Amends Michigan election law to require township boards to contract with accredited individuals for election duties when clerks are unavailable, granting them full authority and mandating regular reporting to ensure continuity and transparency.

Introduced in the House

March 12, 2026

Introduced by Reps. Jennifer Wortz (R-35) and Jay DeBoyer (R-63)

Referred to the Committee on Election Integrity

April 21, 2026

Reported with substitute H-1

April 29, 2026

Substitute H-1 concurred in by voice vote

May 21, 2026

Substitute H-2 offered by Rep. Steve Carra (R-36)

The substitute passed by voice vote

Motion to reconsider substitute H-2 by Rep. Bryan Posthumus (R-90)

The motion prevailed by voice vote

Substitute H-2 offered by Rep. Steve Carra (R-36)

The substitute failed by voice vote

Passed in the House 104 to 2 (details)

Motion to give immediate effect by Rep. Bryan Posthumus (R-90)

The motion prevailed by voice vote

Received in the Senate

June 2, 2026

Referred to the Committee on Elections and Ethics