SE Grand Rapids News

The Michigan House of Representatives has approved legislation sponsored by Speaker Pro Tem Rachelle Smit aimed at eliminating a paperwork requirement that has, in some cases, prevented elected school board members from assuming office.

House Bill 4795, introduced by Smit, seeks to remove the "acceptance of office" form that candidates have been required to sign in addition to taking their oath. The proposed change is intended to streamline election procedures and reduce administrative barriers for newly elected officials.

The issue came to public attention after former state Rep. Steve Johnson was unable to serve on the Hopkins Public Schools Board of Education because he missed the ten-day window for filing the acceptance form. Johnson's situation, which was first reported by Citizen Portal, raised concerns that such rules could be used to challenge election outcomes and undermine voter intent.

Smit explained that she became involved after residents expressed concern about similar problems occurring elsewhere in Michigan. "I didn’t go looking for this issue — it was brought to me by concerned citizens who saw firsthand how an outdated process was being weaponized against a qualified community member," Smit said. "What happened here at home made clear this wasn’t just a local problem, but a statewide one. I’m proud that our work on this bill will protect voters’ intent and ensure no Michigander is ever disqualified from serving their community because of unnecessary, duplicative paperwork."

Johnson praised Smit’s efforts, stating: "I am grateful for Rep. Smit’s leadership in passing this legislation that removes unnecessary and duplicative paperwork that only serves to disenfranchise the voters. She listened when others ignored the issue and delivered a solution that helps every community in Michigan."

Current law requires newly elected school board and community college trustees to file both an oath of office and a separate acceptance form before taking office. The new legislation would eliminate the redundant step, allowing officials to begin serving once election results are certified.

The bill passed unanimously in the House with bipartisan support following a 9-0 vote in committee earlier in the fall. It has received endorsements from organizations including the Michigan Association of School Boards, the Michigan Department of State, and Promote the Vote as a practical measure to prevent technical disqualifications and uphold voter intent.

House Bill 4795 now moves to the Michigan Senate for further consideration.