The measure is somewhat
controversial in that opponents claim the legislation does not significantly
differ from the measure previously repealed. In reality, the new statute
contains substantive differences from the previous law, providing failing local
units (the measure would not affect school districts) with four options: a
consent agreement, an emergency manager, mediation or Chapter 9 bankruptcy.
The measure, sponsored by Senator Phil Pavlov
(R-St. Clair), will go into effect in late March as the bill failed to achieve
immediate effect during passage.