LANSING, Mich., Feb. 20, 2025 — The Michigan House of Representatives passed House Bills 4062-64s today. These bills seek to end the “revolving door” from government official to lobbyist by creating a mandatory two-year “cooling off” period before state legislators, the governor, lieutenant governor and state principal department heads can engage in lobbying after their service has ended. State Reps. Erin Byrnes (D-Dearborn) and Kara Hope (D-Holt) worked to pass similar government transparency legislation through the House last term. Acknowledging there is more work to be done, they issued the following statements in support of the legislation:
“Elected officials work only for the people they represent, not outside interest groups or lobbyists,” Hope said. “I introduced similar legislation during the previous term, and I am thrilled to see the House act once again on this issue. This package is certainly a step in the right direction toward a more transparent government, but we cannot stop here. Now is also the time to reform the Freedom of Information Act in Michigan to apply to state lawmakers and the governor’s office. Michiganders deserve full transparency from their elected officials.”
“I am glad to see quick action taken on important issues related to government ethics and transparency,” Byrnes said. “Michiganders shouldn’t have to worry about their elected officials’ voting record being influenced by the prospect of future lobbying opportunities, and this package ensures they don’t have to. I was proud to have worked on similar legislation as chair of the House Ethics and Oversight Committee, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to push for more policies that further improve government transparency and build trust, such as expanding the Freedom of Information Act in Michigan.”
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