Local Governments Continue Opposing Documentary Proof of Citizenship Proposal

Local governments across Michigan continue to take action in response to the proposed ballot initiative that would amend the Michigan Constitution to require documentary proof of citizenship to register and vote.

So far, three jurisdictions have passed resolutions opposing the proposal:

Detroit City Council
Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners
Ypsilanti City Council

Each resolution affirms support for Michigan’s current election system and raises concerns that documentary proof of citizenship requirements could create barriers for eligible voters who cannot easily access documents such as birth certificates or passports.

Now, the Wayne County Board of Commissioners is preparing to consider a similar resolution.

Momentum is continuing to grow in other parts of the state.

Wayne County Board of Commissioners – March 19

The Wayne County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to introduce a resolution on March 19 at 10:00 am at the Guardian Building in Detroit.

This meeting is an important opportunity for community members to show support for protecting access to the ballot. Strong turnout helps demonstrate that voters across Wayne County care deeply about keeping elections accessible and fair.

If you are able, consider attending the meeting to show your support for the resolution and for protecting our voting rights.

What to know if you plan to attend:

The meeting begins at 10:00 am, so plan to arrive on time.

Anyone wishing to speak during public comment must fill out a public comment card at the meeting. Public comment will take place after the vote on the resolution.

Because public comment happens after the vote, community members are also encouraged to send comments to the Wayne County Board of Commissioners ahead of time by email.

You may provide public comments in person, via Zoom or email. Emailed comments sent to pfordham@waynecountymi.gov will be read by the Acting Clerk of the Commission. Please include your name with your comment(s).

Send a Message to the Wayne County Board of Commissioners

Community voices matter in these discussions. If you are unable to attend the meeting on March 19, you can still support the resolution by sending a public comment to the Wayne County Board of Commissioners. Folks are encouraged to email the county commissioners ahead of time asking them to vote YES on the resolution opposing the Michigan version of the SAVE Act.

Below is a sample email you can use or adapt.

SUBJECT: Tell Wayne County to stand up for voters!

Dear [NAME],

[INTRODUCE YOURSELF] On March 19, the Wayne County Board of Commissioners plans to introduce a resolution taking a stand against the documentary proof of citizenship ballot proposal. We need all hands on deck to support the resolution and make sure that Wayne County commits to protect voting.

What to know: An out-of-state group is currently circulating a ballot proposal that would require voters to show a birth certificate or passport when registering to vote and require more documents when voters go to cast their ballots. Nearly 700,000 Michiganders can’t access these documents, which can cost more than $100.

The proposal would make it more difficult for married women, overseas and military voters, students, rural voters, voters with disabilities, and low-income voters to participate in our elections. Unfortunately, reporters have documented signature gatherers misinforming voters about the impacts of these petitions.

We’re asking the Wayne County Board of Commissioners to pass a resolution setting the record straight.

Additional Local Updates

Work on similar resolutions is underway in several other communities across Michigan.

In progress:

✦ Kalamazoo County
✦ Kalamazoo Township
✦ Ingham County
✦ Lansing
✦ Warren City Council
✦ Houghton County
✦ Genesee County
✦ City of Flint

Upcoming

Pontiac City Council plans to take up a resolution on March 24. This is a strong opportunity for residents in Pontiac and Oakland County to engage. Let us know if you want guidance in how to do so.

VAAC will continue sharing updates as additional communities consider resolutions in the coming weeks.

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