House Joint Resolution U proposes an amendment to the Michigan Constitution that aims to reform the nominating process for the offices of secretary of state and attorney general, transitioning from party conventions to primary elections starting January 1, 2027. Additionally, the resolution seeks to modify the governance structure of the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University by establishing new nine-member governing boards, which would replace the current eight-member boards. These new boards would be subject to term limits, require bipartisan representation (with no more than five members from the same political party), and include specific eligibility criteria, such as the nomination of one member from the alumni association and one member with practical farming expertise for Michigan State University.
The resolution also outlines the appointment process for these board members, stipulating that the governor, with the advice and consent of the senate, will appoint members to the boards. The current governor will appoint four members for each university, while the newly elected governor will appoint the remaining members. The proposed amendment will be presented to the voters in a special election scheduled for August 4, 2026, with a ballot question asking whether to adopt these changes.