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Bill seeks To Make State Legislature Part-Time

WKAR File Photo

A proposal in Lansing would limit the state’s legislative session to 90 days a year.

As The Michigan Public Radio Network's Jake Neher reports, Michigan would join 40 other states with part-time legislatures if the measure succeeds.

Under the proposal, lawmakers would only meet three months a year starting in 2015. They could call special sessions in case there’s an emergency.

Republican state Senator John Proos says the change would force lawmakers to set priorities.

“Work always expands to fill the time,"  he says.   "It seems like we’re procrastinators by natures. I’d rather see us get some of those things done in advance.”

Governor Rick Snyder says lawmakers are too busy to switch to a 90-day session. But he says it’s something to consider further down the road.

The measure would change the state’s constitution. That means it would have to be approved by voters.

Jake Neher is a reporter for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He covers the State Legislature and other political events in Lansing.
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