Bill > HB6238

This bill, amending "The home rule village act," establishes attendance requirements for members of a village's legislative body, such as the village council. Specifically, if a member misses more than 50% of the scheduled regular meetings within a 12-month period, they can be removed from office for willful neglect of duty, a process outlined in the Michigan election law. "Regular meetings" are defined as those officially scheduled at the beginning of the year or added according to established village rules. Absences due to military service, documented temporary medical conditions, or legally permitted leave are excused, provided proper documentation is submitted to the village clerk. Additionally, a member's absence can be excused if the legislative body, by majority vote at a public meeting, deems it due to an "extraordinary circumstance." The village clerk is responsible for confirming receipt of documentation for excused absences but not for judging its validity, and is protected from civil liability if acting in good faith. The clerk must notify a member if they miss 40% or more of meetings and, if the member then exceeds the 50% threshold, initiate the removal process. Any resulting vacancy will be filled according to the village's charter.