<Home
Michigan House Republicans
Rep. O’Malley: Refined emergency powers procedure will provide more transparency, accountability
RELEASE|July 11, 2022

Legislation from state Rep. Jack O’Malley that holds state government accountable to the people of Michigan when officials use emergency powers was recently approved by the Michigan House.

O’Malley’s plan was part of seven bills that were advanced. The proposals set needed timeframes, offer clarity within existing law, provide additional oversight for representatives of the people and remove unnecessary powers. 

“What confused many people across the state during COVID-19 when executive action and health orders started coming down was the lack of notice that was provided and a disregard for the collateral damage that people thought would come from the orders,” said O’Malley, of Lake Ann. “Many orders just came out of the blue from unelected bureaucrats. This lack of communication and an unwillingness to keep people informed and involved made the orders extremely difficult to make sense of and follow – especially with lives and livelihoods at stake.

“It was clear that the system wasn’t working, and this won’t be the last time our state faces an emergency. These plans work to shore up that communication and develop a more effective plan of attack.”

One plan in the legislative package would codify a 28-day time limit for certain unilateral authority and allow legislative reauthorization for epidemic orders issued by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, which were often used broadly during the height of COVID-19.

Other bills would require the executive branch to notify the Legislature in a timely manner — typically 24 hours — after some powers are exercised. This includes O’Malley’s House Bill 6204, which requires the Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development or the Natural Resources Commission to inform the Legislature of imminent action regarding the protection of public health. 

The plans now advance to the Senate for consideration.

#####

Michigan House Republicans
RELATED POSTS

© 2009 - 2024 Michigan House Republicans. All Rights Reserved.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.