MICD Statement on the end of the 2024 Lame Duck Session
Lansing, MI — The 2024 session of the Michigan Legislature ended on December 20th after the Senate gaveled out following a marathon session in which it passed dozens of bills. The State House ended its session the day before, after all Republicans and one Democrat walked out, denying the chamber a quorum.
The Michigan College Democrats are very disappointed that the termination of the lame duck session saw numerous priorities left on the table, including the Michigan Voting Rights Act, polluter pay, and legislation to restrict the production of ghost guns. Not only are these measures overwhelmingly popular among the general public, but they would protect the health and well-being of communities all over the state.
Even more disappointing is the decision of Democratic leadership to move consideration of many of these bills from an earlier point in the session to lame duck, out of fear that it would harm Democrats electorally in November. Democrats ran on these priorities and won in 2022 because of them. Blocking votes on them only hurt Democrats. Furthermore, bills which would give handouts to corporations in Michigan were given higher priority above this common-sense legislation.
The Michigan College Democrats intend to hold all of our legislators accountable. We find it hypocritical that, just weeks before refusing to vote in the capitol, many of them asked their constituents to vote for them at their polling place. When our elected representatives fail to show up, they demonstrate to the public that they are willing to take their trust and democracy itself—for granted.
With Republicans having gained a majority in the House following November’s election, Democrats have a greater responsibility than ever to expose their agenda for what it is: anti-worker, anti-climate, and anti-student. As Michigan College Democrats, we will continue to ensure that Democrats in both name and spirit regain the trifecta in 2026, so that we can build a stronger, safer, and healthier Michigan.
