Key Takeaways:
- The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear a lawsuit challenging Michigan’s voter-approved election laws.
- The lawsuit argued that only state legislatures could change election rules, citing the Elections Clause.
- Lower courts dismissed the case, ruling the plaintiffs lacked standing.
- The decision upholds voting rights expansions from 2018 and 2022.
- The ruling aligns with a broader trend limiting state legislative power over elections.
Introduction: In a significant move, the U.S. Supreme Court recently decided not to hear a lawsuit challenging Michigan’s election laws. This decision is a win for Michigan voters, as it upholds their right to shape election rules through ballot initiatives. The lawsuit, filed by state lawmakers, argued that only legislatures could change election laws, referencing the Elections Clause of the U.S. Constitution. However, the courts rejected this claim, ensuring that voter-approved measures remain in place.
Background of the Lawsuit: The lawsuit, filed in 2023, targeted two voter-approved proposals. Proposal 3 (2018) and Proposal 2 (2022) expanded voting rights, including same-day registration and absentee voting. Lawmakers argued that these changes should have been made by the legislature, not through ballot initiatives, claiming this violated the Elections Clause. They believed that allowing voters to amend election laws bypassed the legislative process.
Court Decisions: The case was first dismissed in April 2024 by U.S. District Court Judge Jane Beckering for lack of standing. The 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed this decision in December 2024. The Supreme Court’s refusal to hear the case finalized the outcome, leaving the voter-approved laws intact.
Significance of the Ruling: This decision reinforces the power of voters in Michigan to influence election laws. It also reflects a broader trend, as seen in the Moore v. Harper case, where the Supreme Court limited state legislatures’ absolute authority over elections. The ruling ensures that voters and courts have a say in election rules, balancing legislative power.
Conclusion: The Supreme Court’s decision is a victory for Michigan voters, affirming their role in shaping election laws. It underscores the importance of voter initiatives and checks on legislative power, ensuring a fair and accessible electoral process. This outcome is a significant step in protecting and expanding voting rights in Michigan and beyond.