2026 House Resolution 324

Whereas, The Constitution of the state of Michigan recognizes that “[a]ll political power is inherent in the people. Government is instituted for their equal benefit, security and protection.” We the people have a compelling sovereign interest in fostering robust political debate and self-government, protecting the free speech interests of all individuals, securing the liberty and political equality of our citizens, guarding against corruption, and advancing federalism and the interests of the several states; and

Whereas, Reasonable limits on how money is used to influence the outcomes of elections are wise to secure the interests of all citizens of our state to be represented and to participate in elections and self-government. Such limits enhance the free speech rights of average Americans by helping to ensure they have the opportunity to meaningfully participate in the political process. Furthermore, limits on election-related spending can help protect the integrity of our elections, shielding our government from out-of-state and foreign interests and the undue influence of wealthy special interests, whether of corporations, unions, or other artificial entities. Our campaign finance laws should distinguish between natural persons and foreign or legal entities, to ensure that our republican form of government continues to represent the people of this great state; and

Whereas, Over the past five decades, the Supreme Court of the United States has gradually come to equate unlimited election spending with “free speech.” This unlimited spending is drowning out the free speech interests of constituents, narrowing debate, weakening federalism and self-governance in the states, and increasing the risk of systemic corruption; and

Whereas, The Framers of the United States Constitution wisely granted the states the power to amend the Constitution when necessary to make it, and our Union, ever more perfect, and to protect and preserve self-government and liberty; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we call upon the United States Congress to propose and send to the states for ratification a constitutional amendment to clarify that the states may set reasonable limits on the spending of money to influence elections in the states, and that Congress may set reasonable limits on the spending of money to influence federal elections, and that, in so doing, the states and Congress may distinguish between natural persons and artificial entities such as corporations, unions, and artificial intelligence; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, the Minority Leader of the United States House of Representatives, the Majority Leader of the United States Senate, the Minority Leader of the United States Senate, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.