PAAdvisory Briefs

House Dems Take Immediate Effect Fight to Supreme Court

The House Democratic Caucus has appealed their fight on immediate effect to the Michigan Supreme Court. Thus far, the lower courts have ruled in favor of the Republican’s argument that the matter is not under the Court’s jurisdiction and is a matter of internal House management. Democrats contend that their numbers in the House are greater than the 22 necessary to request a roll call vote and, therefore, should be honored.

Mortgage Foreclosure Claim Forms Mailed

For those that lost their homes between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2011, the process for some relief under the $25 billion settlement won by 49 state attorneys general has started. 148,000 forms will be mailed through October 12^th and must be completed and returned by January 18, 2013.

Spear Fishing Legalized on State’s Largest Inland Lake

While Governor Snyder is out of the country on a trade trip to China, Lt. Governor Brian Calley signed legislation legalizing spear fishing on Houghton Lake. House Bill 5452, now PA 301 with immediate effect, passed both legislative chambers with unanimous votes.

New Senate Transportation Committee Composed

A new body in the Senate, developed to tackle the state’s transportation funding issues, has its three members but remains without a name. Senator Roger Kahn (R-Saginaw) was named to Chair the panel by Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville (R-Monroe). Senator Kahn will be joined by Senator John Pappageorge (R-Troy) and Senator Rebekah Warren (D-Ann Arbor). The group will hold their first meeting October 2^nd.

Governor to Receive Business Court Creation Legislation

House Bill 5128, sponsored by Representative John Walsh (R-Livonia), is making its way to the Governor’s desk following House concurrence in Senate changes. The measure provides for the authority to establish business courts to relieve courts of crowded dockets. Under the proposal, a circuit court with three or more judges can assign a business docket and have a judge oversee proceedings specific to business cases.

posted by PAA Online , Friday, September 28, 2012 11:02 AM
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