Michigan 'Money Out of Politics' Proposal Cleared for Ballot

The bipartisan Michigan Board of State Canvassers certified that petition signatures for the Michiganders for Money Out of Politics initiative meet the threshold, sending the measure to the Legislature for a 40‑day review or directly to the November ballot. The proposal would prohibit regulated utility monopolies such as DTE Energy and Consumers Energy, as well as large state contractors, from making political contributions and would require related 501(c)(4) nonprofits to disclose pre‑election ad spending.

Supporters argue the ban would curb the influence of powerful utilities and encourage legislators to resist rate‑hike pressures, while critics say it would limit free‑speech rights of employees. Christy McGillivray, co‑chair of the campaign, said, “Today is proof that a people‑powered movement can stand up to some of the most powerful special interests in Michigan.”

Utility interests have already poured $115,000 into a dark‑money group, Protect MI Free Speech, to oppose the amendment. CMS Energy (parent of Consumers Energy) contributed $50,000, and Michigan Energy First, linked to DTE Energy, donated another $50,000. The measure now faces possible legal challenges as it moves toward the November vote.