Bill > SB0696

This bill modifies a state law concerning township name changes by revising the election date for approving such changes from August to May. Specifically, the bill allows a township board to change its name by adopting a resolution with a two-thirds majority vote, but the name change must then be approved by a majority of township voters at either the next May or November regular election (whichever comes first), occurring at least 60 days after the resolution's adoption. The bill also maintains an existing restriction that townships cannot change their name more than once every 25 years. An important technical detail is that the amendments will take effect on January 1, 2027, and are contingent upon the passage of a related Senate bill. The changes provide townships with more flexibility in selecting the timing of their name change approval election while maintaining voter input and preventing frequent name changes.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-SB-0696