Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently signed nearly twenty bills that introduce significant changes to the state's election laws. These bills cover various aspects, including voting registration, transportation to polling stations, and the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) in political advertisements.
During a signing ceremony at the Detroit branch of the NAACP, Gov. Whitmer emphasized the state's transition from mediocrity to a leading position in safeguarding voting rights and the electoral process. One notable provision in the new legislation requires campaigns to identify ads utilizing artificial intelligence. This measure is designed to address the escalating concern of misinformation, particularly in anticipation of the 2024 presidential election.
In addition to the AI-related provision, the new laws introduce several other significant changes. Early voting will now span nine days, enabling more flexibility for voters. Another noteworthy change allows 16-year-olds to preregister before turning 18. Furthermore, Michigan becomes the first state to implement automatic registration for individuals released from prison, a groundbreaking move acknowledged by the advocacy group Voters Not Politicians.
To enhance the electoral environment, the new laws also make it a criminal offense to harass election workers. Simultaneously, they decriminalize the practice of compensating rides to polling locations through popular apps like Uber and Lyft. This contrasts with the previous Michigan election law, which prohibited hiring a motor vehicle for transportation to a polling center unless the voter was unable to walk.
These comprehensive changes represent a significant step forward in fortifying Michigan's electoral processes and ensuring broader access to voting while addressing emerging challenges like the use of AI in campaign advertisements.
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