The bill amends sections 362 and 370 of the Michigan election law, specifically addressing the terms of office for township officers and the procedures for filling vacancies in elective township offices. It establishes that beginning in 1980, the term of office for all township officers will be four years, with specific commencement dates for terms based on the election date. For officers elected before January 1, 2025, their terms will start at noon on November 20 following their election, while those elected after that date will begin their terms at noon on December 1. Additionally, the bill clarifies that if an elected township officer fails to qualify by January 1 following their election, it creates a vacancy that must be filled according to the provisions outlined in section 370.

The bill also outlines the process for filling vacancies in elective township offices. If a vacancy occurs and the township board does not fill it within 45 days, the county clerk must call a special election to fill the vacancy. The bill specifies that the special election must be held on the next regular election date that is at least 60 days after the nomination deadline, with additional provisions for elections coinciding with specific dates. Furthermore, it includes a new provision stating that an individual elected to fill a vacancy cannot take the oath of office until the election results are certified by the appropriate board of canvassers. The bill maintains that the office of township constable remains vacant until the next election if not filled by appointment.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 168.362, 168.370