Michigan Legislature Adjourns Early, Delaying Key Legislation and Prompting Calls for Immediate Action

The Democratic-led Michigan Legislature has adjourned for the year, earlier than usual, prompting criticism from Republicans. This year marked the first time in four decades that Democrats had a majority in both chambers of the legislature. Despite pushing through several major legislative proposals, not all received the necessary Republican support for immediate effect. Bills that did not receive a two-thirds majority will automatically go into effect 90 days after adjournment, which would conflict with the state's plan to move its Democratic presidential primary to late February. Democrats argue that they want laws to go into effect sooner, including measures on gun violence, retirement tax repeal, abortion rights, and LGBTQ+ civil rights. The date for lawmakers' return in the new year has not been announced.