The bill amends the existing law regulating political activity in Michigan, specifically targeting the lobbying activities of former members of the Michigan Senate and House of Representatives. It establishes that any member who resigns from office before January 1 will be prohibited from making expenditures or receiving compensation for lobbying for the remainder of their term. Additionally, it introduces a two-year restriction post-resignation, during which former members cannot engage in lobbying activities that meet or exceed the threshold requiring registration as a lobbyist agent. This provision applies to members whose terms begin on or after January 1, 2025.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the penalties for violations of this section. It changes the language from "a person" to "an individual" and maintains the misdemeanor classification for violations, which can result in a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to 90 days, or both. This amendment aims to enhance the regulation of lobbying activities and ensure that former legislators do not leverage their previous positions for lobbying purposes immediately after leaving office.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 4.416
As Passed by the House: 4.416