As Michigan voters go to the polls Tuesday, they will be given a chance to vote on six separate ballot proposals, ranging from bear hunting to casinos and campaign funding.
The proposals call for voters to make direct votes on laws that govern the state, and if a majority of Michigan voters check "yes" or "no" on their ballots they can rewrite the existing law governing these issues.
Some politicians want to lift the ban on the use of bingo monies to help fund political campaigns by voting "no" on Proposal A. Michigan law currently specifies that bingo proceeds cannot be used for campaigns. If passed, the proposal would uphold the denial of bingo as a means for funding political campaigns.
Should perspective judges have at least five years of experience in law practice before taking the gavel?
Proposal B would require trial judges, appeals judges and state Supreme Court justices to meet this qualification. Currently, the qualifications for judge include being licensed in the practice of law, and being under 70 years old prior to accepting the seat.
The Veterans' Trust Fund will appear on the ballot under Proposal C. The supporters of the proposal want to ensure that trust fund monies will only be used for veterans and their families. In the past, the state has used the funds to cover shortfalls in general funds. If passed, the proposal will establish the fund in the state's constitution.
Bear-hunting season and the use of bait and traps are among the most debated issues on the ballot. In fact, there are two different proposals involving bear hunting.
State law as it stands now allows the use of bait and traps during bear hunting season.
Proposal D would prohibit the use of bait and dogs to hunt bears at anytime. This proposal would also prohibit bear hunting during spring hunting season.
Proposal G, also involving bear hunting season, would grant the Natural Resource Commission responsibility for regulating game. The NRC would be required to use "principles of sound scientific management" in evaluating what seasons hunters may take game, how much game may be taken and how to minimize human/bear encounters.
Three new gaming casinos would be established in Detroit if Proposal E passes. This proposal would allow casino gambling in any Michigan city with a population of 800,000 or more that is within 100 miles of another state or country where casinos are allowed. The only Michigan city to qualify would be Detroit.