[Michlib-l] SB 571

[David Conklin]

Pamela,

Thank you for sharing this letter. GDL has an upcoming election on Aug. 2nd of this year.  After reading the letter it appears to me that there still remains plenty of latitude for interpretation.

"The new language in subsection (3) only applies when local governmental entities use taxpayer resources to distribute mass communications concerning ballot questions. As I interpret this language, it is intended to  prohibit communications that are plain attempts to influence voters without using words like "vote for" or "support."

This can be plainly interpreted to include any promotions by the library to promote service and even just reading in general.  GDL has already purchased billboards to promote reading and library use this year.  Where before SB571 (when the ads were purchased) we were able to include anything other than a vote yes message, now any advertisement we have could be interpreted as "...plain attempts to influence voters without using words like "vote for" or "support."

I remain very concerned.

:o/
Dave

David Conklin
Director
Genesee District Library

(810) 230-3335 Office
(810) 732-1161 Fax
dconklin at thegdl.org<mailto:dconklin at thegdl.org>

Genesee District Library Headquarters
4195 W. Pasadena Avenue
Flint, MI 48504

From: michlib-l-bounces at mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces at mcls.org] On Behalf Of Pam Withrow
Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:41 PM
To: michlib-l at mcls.org
Subject: [Michlib-l] SB 571

Hello Everyone,

Because we have a millage coming up in March, we've been watching this legislation pretty closely.  Governor Snyder offered a letter of clarification that should help put librarian minds at ease.  http://www.michigan.gov/documents/snyder/SB_571_signing_letter_510083_7.pdf

Thank you,

Pamela Withrow, Director
Forsyth Township Public Library
180 W. Flint St.
PO Box 1328
Gwinn, MI 49841
906-346-3433

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