Bill > SB0650

This bill amends the Home Rule City Act to provide detailed provisions for establishing and operating administrative hearings bureaus in cities with populations of 7,500 or more (or 3,300 or more in counties with over 1.5 million residents). These bureaus can adjudicate and impose sanctions for specific types of blight violations, including zoning, property maintenance, waste disposal, and vehicle-related issues. The bill outlines comprehensive procedural requirements for issuing violation notices, conducting hearings, and imposing sanctions, with specific protections for landlords during property inspections. Hearing officers must be licensed attorneys with at least five years of experience and must complete a formal training program. The bill establishes a structured process for hearings, including rules of evidence, appeal procedures, and potential penalties for non-compliance. Notably, the bureau cannot handle criminal offenses or impose incarceration, and civil fines are capped at $10,000. The bill also includes special provisions for property owners after foreclosure and includes a justice system assessment of $10 for each blight violation determination. The bill is contingent on the passage of a companion Senate Bill (SB 631), and it makes a technical change by updating the definition of a financial institution by removing a reference to the Michigan Strategic Fund Act.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-SB-0650