Snyder's Veto Pen Gets First Use

Although not entirely unexpected, some Republicans and business groups were caught off-guard when Michigan Governor Rick Snyder used his veto power for the first time Thursday, vetoing House Bill 4326, legislation that would have essentially prohibited state agencies and departments from issuing regulations more restrictive then the federal government. The measure was sponsored by Representative Jeff Farrington (R-Utica).

The Administration had expressed early concerns regarding the measure as it went too far to tie the hands of state agencies. The Governor also criticized the legislation’s requirement that every proposed rule be matched with a federal statute by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) and even went as far as to mention it may contain conflicts with the Constitution as it amends other statutes through the Administrative Procedures Act.

Republicans had shown signs of willingness to work with the Administration to address their concerns; however, the only change made was the ability for agencies and departments to promulgate emergency rules more strict then federal regulations.

In his veto message, the Governor used examples of successful initiatives that went beyond associated federal regulations, such as ballast water rules.

posted by PAA Online , Friday, December 2, 2011 10:13 AM
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