The bill amends Michigan election law to update the nomination process for candidates running for school board members and metropolitan district officers. Key changes include a requirement for candidates to file a nominating petition and an affidavit by a specified deadline, with the number of required signatures varying based on the school district's population. Candidates now have the option to pay a nonrefundable filing fee of $100 instead of submitting a nominating petition. The bill also introduces stricter penalties for violations related to petition signing, including misdemeanors for signing more petitions than allowed and felonies for signing with multiple names.

Additionally, the bill modifies language for clarity and consistency, replacing terms like "persons" with "individuals" and ensuring that nominating petitions are nonpartisan. It emphasizes the validity of signatures and outlines the examination process for their sufficiency. The bill also holds individuals accountable for failing to report violations and empowers the board of state canvassers to impose sanctions on those who violate petition signing regulations, including disqualifying fraudulent signatures and imposing administrative fines. Overall, these amendments aim to streamline the nomination process while enhancing the integrity of Michigan's election system.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 168.303