Tag Archives: Michigan State Law

Being convicted of criminal charges in Michigan will permanently change a person’s life. Even upon release from jail, many ex-convicts find it increasingly difficult to reintegrate successfully into society. This is particularly true as many job applications ask criminal background questions, that if answered truthfully, almost automatically guarantee that a released offender will not be hired. However, a grassroots campaign has been organized in Kalamazoo, petitioning the Board of Commissioners to remove these interrogative questions to give ex-cons an opportunity to provide for themselves and their families.

Although a 2005 decision from the U.S. Supreme Court prohibits the state from sentencing any juvenile to the death penalty, the court further clarified the ruling this week. In a 5 to 4 decision, non-homicidal minors can no longer be incarcerated for life, and must be given a “meaningful” chance to obtain their freedom. The majority based their ruling on the basis that it was unconstitutional and violated the Eighth Amendment on cruel and unusual punishments.

A new system is being adopted in July that will allow low-risk Michigan parolees to check-in to parole and probation officers through phone, as opposed to reporting in person. This is designed to allow police officers more time to focus on high-risk offenders, and help ease the social stigma surrounding probation for ex-inmates convicted of non-violent crimes.

In the spirit of the recent Arizona Illegal Immigrant law, Michigan State Representative Kim Meltzer announced last week that she intends to propose a similar law that would allow police to question people on their immigration status during “lawful contact.” Even though the number of undocumented people in Michigan is much less than the southwest, minority-rights organizations have already publicly announced their willingness to fight the constitutionality of the law, if passed in the state.

Although the freedom of speech is protected by the First Amendment, a Michigan couple was arrested for having anti-Bush signs on their vehicle during a 2007 military funeral procession. Even though the charges against them were eventually dismissed, lawyers for Lewis and Jean Lowden are protesting not only that their civil rights were infringed upon, but that Michigan’s 2006 Funeral Protest Law is unconstitutional.

A new bill is about to be proposed in the State House of Representatives that will outlaw speed traps in Michigan. All communities will be forced to determine traffic limits based on studies on actual traffic flow, and be prohibited from hunting down motorists for outrageous motor vehicle violations.