Michgan
Michigan has strict laws in place to ensure the integrity of elections. In addition to poll watching, Michigan allows election challengers to observe the voting process. State regulations also include anti-voter intimidation laws.
Poll Watchers vs. Election Challengers
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Each election is an open and transparent process that may be observed by any interested person. The state of Michigan recognizes 2 types of interested persons: election challengers and poll watchers.
Election challengers may be appointed by political parties and qualified interest groups to watch the election process. A person who wishes to observe but is not a qualified election challenger is considered a poll watcher.
Both watchers and election challengers are allowed to observe voting precincts and absentee ballot counting boards as long as they do not impede voters. This means that they are allowed to look at election materials as long as it does not interfere or delay the voting process.
Election Challengers are permitted more liberties than poll watchers in reviewing the election, but are also required to have more documentation.
Election Challengers:
· Must carry credentials issued by their political party or interest group
· Must be registered to vote in Michigan.
· Has the right to challenge the actions of election inspectors.
· May stand or sit behind the processing table.
· May observe the recording of absent voter ballots on voting machines.
· May examine without handling each ballot as it is being counted.
· Has the right to challenge a person’s eligibility to vote by presenting concern to election officials
A challenger shall not threaten or intimidate an elector while the elector is entering the polling place. A challenger may also not attempt to persuade voters near the polling place. A challenger shall not make a challenge indiscriminately and without good cause. A challenger shall not interfere with or delay the work of the election inspectors. An individual who challenges a qualified elector of a voting precinct for the purpose of annoying or delaying voters is guilty of a misdemeanor.
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Anti-Voter Intimidation Laws
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Voter intimidation and election interference is strictly prohibited in Michigan and is considered a second-degree felony punishable by a fine up to $1,000, or by a prison sentence of up to 2 years.
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Voter intimidation includes:
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Intimidating voters through physical force in any election (18 U.S.C. § 245 (b)(1)(A))
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Coercing voters through physical or economic intimidation in connection with registration to vote or voting in a federal election (52 U.S.C. § 20511, 18 U.S.C. § 594).
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People who aren't poll workers asking others for personal documentation
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Photographing or videotaping voters
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Disseminating false or misleading election information
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Blocking the entrance to a polling place
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Directly questioning voters
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Latest Legislation
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Michigan laws are so effective that the state has never had an election overturned. Yet, despite an excellent track record of secure elections, Michigan lawmakers continue to introduce legislation that would impose further restrictions on voters, such as limitations on using drop boxes to return absentee ballots and prohibiting clerks from providing prepaid postage on ballot return envelopes. Such regulations directly impact the voting habits of elderly citizens and veterans.
For more information on Michigan voting laws, click here.