The Wayne County Board of Commissioners has passed a resolution opposing documentary proof of citizenship requirements for voting, becoming the latest local government to take action on what advocates are calling the Michigan SAVE Act.

The resolution passed by a 12–1 vote and reflects growing concern across Southeast Michigan about proposals that would require voters to provide documents such as a birth certificate or passport when registering and additional documentation when casting a ballot.

These requirements would eliminate the current option to register using a driver’s license and could create new barriers for eligible voters.

Nearly 700,000 Michiganders do not have or cannot easily access the documents that would be required under the proposal. For many residents, obtaining these documents can cost more than $100 and require time and resources that are not readily available.

The proposal would impact a wide range of voters, including justice-impacted citizens, low-income residents, married women who have changed their names, military and overseas voters, people with disabilities, and others who may face challenges accessing required documentation.

Wayne County joins a growing list of local governments taking action. Washtenaw County, Detroit, and Ypsilanti have each passed similar resolutions, and Kalamazoo County also advanced a resolution this week.

Next, the Pontiac City Council is scheduled to consider a resolution on Tuesday, March 24 at 6:00 pm (47450 Woodward Ave, 2nd Floor, Pontiac). Community members who wish to speak can arrive before the meeting and sign up for public comment. Written comments can also be submitted to ccouncil@pontiac.mi.us.

Additional efforts are underway in Warren, as well as in Genesee County and the City of Flint, where local partners are organizing to bring forward similar resolutions.

Voting Access for All Coalition (VAAC) is proud to be part of the coalition supporting this work and organizing across Michigan to protect the right to vote. Community members are encouraged to stay engaged and support these efforts as they continue in communities across the state.