The Michigan House of Representatives today passed House Bills 5197 and 5198, an election integrity package sponsored by Rep. Rachelle Smit (R-Martin) and Rep. William Bruck (R-Erie Township) to protect Michigan elections from foreign influence.

House Bill 5197, introduced by Rep. Rachelle Smit (R-Martin), would close an existing loophole by prohibiting foreign funding of ballot proposals and initiatives.

Currently, federal law makes it illegal for foreign nationals to contribute to political candidates and Super PACs, but this prohibition does not apply to ballot measures.

“This critical loophole exposes state and local initiatives and referenda to otherwise illegal foreign influence, and foreign-tied spending will continue in our state until it is closed,” said Smit. “This legislation would stop foreign influence in our elections and ensure that only Michigan voices get to decide our state laws.”

House Bill 5198, introduced by Bruck, would amend Michigan election law to require an individual, company, or organization (other than a government entity) providing funds, in-kind goods, or services for election administration to file a sworn certification with the Secretary of State regarding whether they receive foreign funding.

“This bill takes an important step forward by tightening election administration safeguards and limiting who can fund the election process here in Michigan,” said Bruck. “Michigan elections should be decided by Michigan voters, not influenced by foreign money or foreign interests operating behind the scenes.”

This bill package now advances to the Senate for further consideration.