Last Friday, July 24, in a 3-1 vote, the Board of State Canvassers certified a citizens-initiated petition from Michiganders for Money Out of Politics (MMOP), determining the campaign cleared the signature threshold by a razor-thin margin of just nine signatures. The proposed measure now enters a 40-day legislative review window, where lawmakers can enact it, reject it, or take no action, sending the initiative directly to the November 2026 General Election ballot.
If implemented, the measure would prohibit regulated utilities and companies holding state or local contracts exceeding $250,000 from making direct or indirect contributions to candidates, political parties, and political committees. It also establishes expansive disclaimer and reporting requirements for political communications and independent expenditures.
This sweeping proposal represents a direct threat to the constitutional rights of Michiganders and businesses in the state, erecting severe barriers that hinder citizens from engaging in the public policy process. Restricting targeted industries and public contractors blurs the critical boundary between traditional electioneering and fundamental issue advocacy, effectively silencing key stakeholders on matters that directly impact their operations, workforce, and bottom line.
The Detroit Regional Chamber strongly supports “Protecting MI Free Speech,” an opposition committee challenging this flawed determination in court by citing significant procedural irregularities, improper address verification, and unexamined duplicate signatures. A predictable political climate is vital for long-term private investment, and eroding First Amendment protections sets a dangerous precedent that undermines stability across the state.
Protecting Economic Infrastructure and Business Growth
MMOP specifically targets critical economic drivers, including regulated energy providers and major infrastructure, health care, and corporate contractors. Beyond contribution bans on organizations, the measure penalizes affiliated individuals, including executives, board members, and immediate family members, by barring their personal political participation, with mandatory contract cancellations and 12-month procurement bans for violations.
While the initiative purports to eliminate “special interest” influence, campaign finance records show that the funding for MMOP is overwhelmingly derived from national, out-of-state organizations.
Disarming key commercial sectors from advocating for sound economic policies directly threatens the state’s overall competitiveness. Michigan requires robust, modern infrastructure and massive investments in grid capacity, data centers, and advanced manufacturing assets. Restricting job providers and infrastructure partners’ ability to participate in policy discussions threatens the long-term, cohesive strategy required to build a vibrant economy that delivers higher wages and attracts new development.
The Chamber remains committed to defending open dialogue, protecting democratic norms, and ensuring that employers maintain a clear voice in shaping the state’s economic future.