Bill supporters say current law doesn’t give the state enough tools to enforce campaign finance laws in a timely manner.
Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson says she expects to see fewer violations if the bill passes.
“You know, the goal of greater enforcement power is two-fold. One, to create a greater deterrent for violations, which I think would probably be the most immediate and significant effect. And then to, of course, provide greater enforcement teeth on the other end, if there are violations.”
Critics say they’re worried that the bill would require candidates to fight accusations in a Lansing-area court—instead of one closer to home.
Meanwhile… another bill that received testimony would ban lawmakers from becoming lobbyists within a year of their term ending.
