The bill amends the Public Officers Financial Disclosure Act in Michigan to enhance the clarity and requirements for financial disclosures by public officers. Key updates include the introduction of a definition for "Consumer Price Index" specific to the Detroit-Warren-Dearborn area, as well as a more detailed explanation of "earned" and "unearned income." Public officers are now required to file their annual financial disclosure reports by May 15 instead of April 15, and they must also report the income and occupations of their spouses, along with sources of unearned income. The bill also outlines the Secretary of State's responsibilities in managing the filing process, including the creation of an electronic submission system and allowing email filings.

Additionally, the bill establishes new procedures for handling complaints related to financial disclosures. It requires that a notice of complaint includes a copy of the complaint, and the individual has 15 business days to respond, with the possibility of extensions for good cause. Complainants are given 10 business days to submit a rebuttal after receiving a response. The bill also sets criteria for dismissing frivolous complaints and mandates that the Secretary of State notify complainants of dismissal reasons. It establishes a timeline for posting findings related to violations on the Secretary of State's website and allows for informal resolution methods. Furthermore, penalties for late filings and inaccurate reports are introduced, including a late fee structure and civil fines, which will be adjusted for inflation every four years.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 15.703
As Passed by the Senate: 15.703