Local governments are passing resolutions opposing documentary proof of citizenship requirements and affirming support for the state’s current election system.

On Tuesday, April 7, both the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners and Meridian Township adopted resolutions addressing the proposed ballot initiative that would require documentary proof of citizenship to register and vote.

These actions add to a growing list of localities taking a stand against policies that could create serious impediments for eligible voters.

Statewide Action

Communities throughout the state are considering similar resolutions that support the state’s current election system and raise concerns about the impact of these requirements.

Detroit, Washtenaw County, Ypsilanti, Wayne County, and Pontiac have already passed similar resolutions. Kalamazoo County and Meridian Township now add to that list and reflect action in new regions.

This effort is part of a statewide coalition, including Voting Access for All Coalition (VAAC) and partners working to ensure voters understand what this initiative would mean in practice.

Public Comment Takeovers

Public Comment Takeovers remain a key strategy in communities where resolutions have not yet advanced.

Community members are organizing to attend meetings, speak during public comment, and urge local governing bodies to bring forward measures opposing documentary proof of citizenship requirements.

Organizing is ongoing in:

• Condado de Ingham
• Ayuntamiento de Lansing
• Ayuntamiento de East Lansing
• Condado de Genesee
• Ayuntamiento de Flint
• Ayuntamiento de Southfield
• Ayuntamiento de Warren
• Ayuntamiento de Harper Woods
• Ayuntamiento de Adrian
• Condado de Houghton

These efforts are focused on moving stalled resolutions forward and ensuring local leaders hear directly from those who would be affected.

Qué significa esto

Each resolution passed shows concern that these new “Show Your Papers” laws would create additional hurdles for people eligible to vote.

This would shift the burden onto individuals to obtain documents that can be costly, difficult to access, or may not reflect current legal names.

For many people, including those experiencing housing instability, low-income residents, and others navigating systemic barriers, this could make it harder to register and vote.

Tomar acción

➡️ Public Comment Takeovers are underway in communities where resolutions have not yet been brought to a vote, and we need your help. We ask that you attend meetings, speak during public comment, and call on local governing bodies to take up resolutions opposing the ballot initiative.

Talking points and support are available for those who sign up to participate.

➡️ If you have relationships in any of the communities listed above or are able to attend an upcoming meeting, your voice is needed.

We will continue sharing opportunities to get involved as this work moves forward.