TOWNSHIP CONTRACTS FOR SERVICES

TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VICTIMS

House Bill 4563 as introduced

Sponsor:  Rep. Eric Leutheuser

Committee:  Local Government

Complete to 6-2-15

SUMMARY:

House Bill 4563 would allow township officials to enter into contracts that enable the provision of services to the victims of domestic assault.  The bill would amend Revised Statute 16 of 1846 (MCL 41.110c), which concerns the powers and duties of townships, and would take effect 90 days after enactment.   A more detailed description of the bill follows.

Section 110c of the act specifically authorizes a township board to appropriate money or spend funds for all of the following purposes:

o   to advertise the agricultural, industrial, commercial, educational, or recreational advantages of the state, county, or township;

o   to collect and maintain an exhibition (either domestic or foreign) of the products and industries of the township, to encourage immigration and increase trade;

o   to advertise Michigan (all or in part) to tourists and 'resorters'; and

o   to maintain and circulate a publication that disseminates information concerning township improvements, activities, and functions.

House Bill 4563 would retain these four provisions, and authorize a fifth purpose for the expenditure of funds.  Specifically, under the bill, a township could enter into a contract for services to victims of domestic violence with any private, nonprofit corporation or organization that provided domestic violence services, including, but not limited to, one or more of the following:

o   safe emergency shelter

o   a 24-hour crisis hotline

o   supportive counseling

o   case management

o   legal advocacy.

FISCAL IMPACT:

The bill is permissive; any increased spending by a township resulting from this bill would be at the discretion of a township board.

                                                                                         Legislative Analyst:  J. Hunault    

                                                                                                Fiscal Analysts:   Jim Stansell              

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.