The 7th in a 15-paper series ahead of November’s ballot question
Livonia, MI, May 5, 2026 – Citizens Research Council of Michigan today released Article IV – Legislative Branch, the seventh in a series of 15 papers providing information to Michigan voters ahead of the November ballot question on whether a constitutional convention (con-con) should be held. The series examines each of the 12 articles of the Michigan Constitution and offers historical and other important background on past con-cons.
As one of the three coequal branches of state government, the legislative branch has the power to pass laws, control taxation and spending, and exercise oversight of the executive branch.
A constitutional convention might consider institutional issues, such as the size and structure of each chamber, term limits, conflict-of-interest and financial-disclosure requirements, and redistricting.
Over time, several proposed amendments to Article IV have failed either at the ballot box or during the proposal process. Twenty-seven proposals dealing with Article IV have made it to the statewide ballot since 1964, the most of any article. But only nine of the proposed amendments gained voter approval and became part of the 1963 Constitution, a success rate of just 33 percent. This is the lowest passage rate across all articles proposed for amendment.
Failed Article IV amendments reflect persistent tensions among legislative expertise, accountability, transparency, and institutional power in Michigan governance.
The Research Council’s con-con series aims to provide voters with information to help them decide whether convening a constitutional convention is in Michigan’s best interest. The Citizens Research Council takes no position on whether to call a constitutional convention.[GU1]
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Founded in 1916, the Citizens Research Council of Michigan works to improve government in Michigan. The organization provides factual, unbiased, independent information concerning significant issues of state and local government organization, policy, and finance. By delivery of this information to policymakers and citizens, the Research Council aims to ensure sound and rational public policy formation in Michigan. For more information, visit www.crcmich.org.
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