Michigan law permits activist groups to participate in legislating or amending the state’s constitution via ballot drives that let citizens vote on proposed laws. However, there is a loophole that allows the state legislature to make such citizen-initiated proposals straight into law before they are actually put to voters. Legal experts say the loophole exists to avoid the cost and resources required to put such proposals to a popular vote. Though Michigan Democrats won far more votes than Republicans in 2018, Republicans still hold solid majorities in the state house and senate. If they pass, Michigan could join nine other states that have this year passed laws severely restricting or effectively banning abortions.

Source: The Guardian June 08, 2019 06:00 UTC