
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

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@thegdl.org<mailto:dconklin@thegdl.org> Genesee District Library Headquarters 4195 W. Pasadena Avenue Flint, MI 48504 From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Pam Withrow Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:41 PM To: michlib-l@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

Thank you so much for sharing, Pam. I did not interpret the new bill as preventing librarians from providing reference service to patrons with election questions. Hopefully others will feel comfortable in providing reference service as well. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org ---------------------------------------- From: "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:42 PM To: michlib-l@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

While this is nice, how much weight does the Governor's interpretation carry in a court of law? I mean, this is not the same as an Attorney General's Opinion, is it? James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 [smile]<http://smile.amazon.com/ch/46-2488901> From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:23 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Thank you so much for sharing, Pam. I did not interpret the new bill as preventing librarians from providing reference service to patrons with election questions. Hopefully others will feel comfortable in providing reference service as well. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org> ________________________________ From: "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:42 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@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

No, this is merely the opinion of a politician who happens to hold the office Governor, like him or not... Donald E. Worrell, Jr., Director Mount Clemens Public Library 150 Cass Avenue Mount Clemens, MI 48043 (586) 469-6662 dworrell2@comcast.net mtclib.org ----- Original Message ----- From: "James Lenze" <jamesl@gardencitymi.org> To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org, michlib-l@mcls.org, "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:36:12 PM Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 While this is nice, how much weight does the Governor's interpretation carry in a court of law? I mean, this is not the same as an Attorney General's Opinion, is it? James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 [smile]<http://smile.amazon.com/ch/46-2488901> From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:23 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Thank you so much for sharing, Pam. I did not interpret the new bill as preventing librarians from providing reference service to patrons with election questions. Hopefully others will feel comfortable in providing reference service as well. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org> ________________________________ From: "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:42 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@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 _______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org http://mail2.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l

I tend to agree.. He can ask the law makers to go back and make it right but I am sure it won't be done. The whole thing is nonsense and only hinders us from doing our jobs as well as schools. It is very upsetting. Melissa Armstrong Assistant Director Caro Area District Library 840 W Frank Street Caro, Michigan 48723 989-673-4329 ext. 107 melissa@carolibrary.org Signature SizeCaro-Area-District-Library-Logo From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of James Lenze Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:36 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org; michlib-l@mcls.org; Pam Withrow Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 While this is nice, how much weight does the Governor's interpretation carry in a court of law? I mean, this is not the same as an Attorney General's Opinion, is it? James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 <http://smile.amazon.com/ch/46-2488901> smile From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:23 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Thank you so much for sharing, Pam. I did not interpret the new bill as preventing librarians from providing reference service to patrons with election questions. Hopefully others will feel comfortable in providing reference service as well. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org _____ From: "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:42 PM To: michlib-l@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

The Governor's letter was nothing more than political CYA... Donald E. Worrell, Jr., Director Mount Clemens Public Library 150 Cass Avenue Mount Clemens, MI 48043 (586) 469-6662 dworrell2@comcast.net mtclib.org "What are my other options?" --Christopher Worrell --Age 5, 2008 ----- Original Message ----- From: Melissa Armstrong <melissa@carolibrary.org> To: 'James Lenze' <jamesl@Gardencitymi.org>, jmarks@baycountylibrary.org, michlib-l@mcls.org, 'Pam Withrow' <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Sent: Mon, 11 Jan 2016 20:36:05 -0000 (UTC) Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 I tend to agree.. He can ask the law makers to go back and make it right but I am sure it won't be done. The whole thing is nonsense and only hinders us from doing our jobs as well as schools. It is very upsetting. Melissa Armstrong Assistant Director Caro Area District Library 840 W Frank Street Caro, Michigan 48723 989-673-4329 ext. 107 melissa@carolibrary.org Signature SizeCaro-Area-District-Library-Logo From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of James Lenze Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:36 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org; michlib-l@mcls.org; Pam Withrow Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 While this is nice, how much weight does the Governor's interpretation carry in a court of law? I mean, this is not the same as an Attorney General's Opinion, is it? James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 <http://smile.amazon.com/ch/46-2488901> smile From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:23 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Thank you so much for sharing, Pam. I did not interpret the new bill as preventing librarians from providing reference service to patrons with election questions. Hopefully others will feel comfortable in providing reference service as well. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org _____ From: "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:42 PM To: michlib-l@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

I must be missing something in the bill. I thought it was redundant as we all know we cannot use library money to print materials on library ballot issues, we cannot use staff time to work on millage proposals, we cannot promote our library's millage proposal while working on the clock, etc. I read that we can still hand out the League of Women Voters material, tell a patron which precinct they are registered to vote in, and tell them if their community has a local election. Those are valid reference questions and resources. Period. If they aren't, then what about the political books that are purchased? Can we not have them in the collection? Do they go in hiding for 60 days prior to an election? Ridiculous! We keep on rockin' our bad librarian selves, people! Keep answering those reference questions. Just don't think you can print out or distribute political literature or wear Vote for the ACME Library t-shirts while working the desk. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org ---------------------------------------- From: "Melissa Armstrong" <melissa@carolibrary.org> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 3:36 PM To: "James Lenze" <jamesl@Gardencitymi.org>, jmarks@baycountylibrary.org, michlib-l@mcls.org, "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Subject: RE: [Michlib-l] SB 571 I tend to agree.. He can ask the law makers to go back and make it right but I am sure it won't be done. The whole thing is nonsense and only hinders us from doing our jobs as well as schools. It is very upsetting. Melissa Armstrong Assistant Director Caro Area District Library 840 W Frank Street Caro, Michigan 48723 989-673-4329 ext. 107 melissa@carolibrary.org From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of James Lenze Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:36 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org; michlib-l@mcls.org; Pam Withrow Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 While this is nice, how much weight does the Governor's interpretation carry in a court of law? I mean, this is not the same as an Attorney General's Opinion, is it? James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:23 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Thank you so much for sharing, Pam. I did not interpret the new bill as preventing librarians from providing reference service to patrons with election questions. Hopefully others will feel comfortable in providing reference service as well. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org ---------------------------------------- From: "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:42 PM To: michlib-l@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

Jeanette makes a valid point. You may certainly answer reference questions. MLA continues to work on this issue, its repercussions and possible solutions. Watch for more information in Thursday's MLA Update. Take care, Gail Madziar Michigan Library Association gmadziar@milibraries.org From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 4:32 PM To: James Lenze <jamesl@Gardencitymi.org>; michlib-l@mcls.org; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>; Melissa Armstrong <melissa@carolibrary.org> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 I must be missing something in the bill. I thought it was redundant as we all know we cannot use library money to print materials on library ballot issues, we cannot use staff time to work on millage proposals, we cannot promote our library's millage proposal while working on the clock, etc. I read that we can still hand out the League of Women Voters material, tell a patron which precinct they are registered to vote in, and tell them if their community has a local election. Those are valid reference questions and resources. Period. If they aren't, then what about the political books that are purchased? Can we not have them in the collection? Do they go in hiding for 60 days prior to an election? Ridiculous! We keep on rockin' our bad librarian selves, people! Keep answering those reference questions. Just don't think you can print out or distribute political literature or wear Vote for the ACME Library t-shirts while working the desk. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org> ________________________________ From: "Melissa Armstrong" <melissa@carolibrary.org<mailto:melissa@carolibrary.org>> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 3:36 PM To: "James Lenze" <jamesl@Gardencitymi.org<mailto:jamesl@Gardencitymi.org>>, jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org>, michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>, "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>> Subject: RE: [Michlib-l] SB 571 I tend to agree.. He can ask the law makers to go back and make it right but I am sure it won't be done. The whole thing is nonsense and only hinders us from doing our jobs as well as schools. It is very upsetting. Melissa Armstrong Assistant Director Caro Area District Library 840 W Frank Street Caro, Michigan 48723 989-673-4329 ext. 107 melissa@carolibrary.org<mailto:melissa@carolibrary.org> [Signature SizeCaro-Area-District-Library-Logo] From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of James Lenze Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:36 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org>; michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>; Pam Withrow Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 While this is nice, how much weight does the Governor's interpretation carry in a court of law? I mean, this is not the same as an Attorney General's Opinion, is it? James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org<mailto:jamesl@gardencitymi.org> Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 [smile]<http://smile.amazon.com/ch/46-2488901> From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:23 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Thank you so much for sharing, Pam. I did not interpret the new bill as preventing librarians from providing reference service to patrons with election questions. Hopefully others will feel comfortable in providing reference service as well. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org> ________________________________ From: "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:42 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@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

Jeanette, Here is a sample of what you may have missed: Prior to SB571, as long as we did not suggest how one should vote, we could: 1. Use library resources to prepare and mail informational materials about local ballot issues - including postcards reminding people to vote. 2. Include factual information about the ballot issue in our newsletters. 3. Be interviewed on our local cable channel about the ballot issues. 4. Speak at televised City Council meetings about the ballot issues. 5. Rebut factually erroneous statements made by the public at televised Council meetings. Now, I need a legal opinion to tell me if any of these are permissible. James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 [smile]<http://smile.amazon.com/ch/46-2488901> From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Gail Madziar Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 4:46 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org; michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Jeanette makes a valid point. You may certainly answer reference questions. MLA continues to work on this issue, its repercussions and possible solutions. Watch for more information in Thursday's MLA Update. Take care, Gail Madziar Michigan Library Association gmadziar@milibraries.org<mailto:gmadziar@milibraries.org> From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 4:32 PM To: James Lenze <jamesl@Gardencitymi.org<mailto:jamesl@Gardencitymi.org>>; michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>>; Melissa Armstrong <melissa@carolibrary.org<mailto:melissa@carolibrary.org>> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 I must be missing something in the bill. I thought it was redundant as we all know we cannot use library money to print materials on library ballot issues, we cannot use staff time to work on millage proposals, we cannot promote our library's millage proposal while working on the clock, etc. I read that we can still hand out the League of Women Voters material, tell a patron which precinct they are registered to vote in, and tell them if their community has a local election. Those are valid reference questions and resources. Period. If they aren't, then what about the political books that are purchased? Can we not have them in the collection? Do they go in hiding for 60 days prior to an election? Ridiculous! We keep on rockin' our bad librarian selves, people! Keep answering those reference questions. Just don't think you can print out or distribute political literature or wear Vote for the ACME Library t-shirts while working the desk. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org> ________________________________ From: "Melissa Armstrong" <melissa@carolibrary.org<mailto:melissa@carolibrary.org>> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 3:36 PM To: "James Lenze" <jamesl@Gardencitymi.org<mailto:jamesl@Gardencitymi.org>>, jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org>, michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>, "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>> Subject: RE: [Michlib-l] SB 571 I tend to agree.. He can ask the law makers to go back and make it right but I am sure it won't be done. The whole thing is nonsense and only hinders us from doing our jobs as well as schools. It is very upsetting. Melissa Armstrong Assistant Director Caro Area District Library 840 W Frank Street Caro, Michigan 48723 989-673-4329 ext. 107 melissa@carolibrary.org<mailto:melissa@carolibrary.org> [Signature SizeCaro-Area-District-Library-Logo] From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of James Lenze Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:36 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org>; michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>; Pam Withrow Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 While this is nice, how much weight does the Governor's interpretation carry in a court of law? I mean, this is not the same as an Attorney General's Opinion, is it? James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org<mailto:jamesl@gardencitymi.org> Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 [smile]<http://smile.amazon.com/ch/46-2488901> From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:23 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Thank you so much for sharing, Pam. I did not interpret the new bill as preventing librarians from providing reference service to patrons with election questions. Hopefully others will feel comfortable in providing reference service as well. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org> ________________________________ From: "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:42 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@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

Here is what concerns me: Text from Public Act 269 of 2015 (formerly SB 571) under CONTENT: http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2015-2016/billanalysis/Senate/pdf/20... "Prohibit a public body, within 60 days before an election in which a local ballot question appears on the ballot, from using public funds or resources for a communication by radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message if the communication refers to a local ballot question." This language was a bit bothersome but was specific in that "...if the communication refers to a local ballot question." it was illegal. Text from Gov. Synder's "clarification" letter: http://www.michigan.gov/documents/snyder/SB_571_signing_letter_510083_7.pdf "...it is intended to prohibit communications that are plain attempts to influence voters without using words like "vote for" or "support."" This sounds worse and flings the interpretation windows wide open. Now any ad can be construed to be an attempt to influence voters and now illegal. Before the lines were clear no tax dollars promoting a yes vote. :o/ Dave David Conklin Director Genesee District Library (810) 230-3335 Office (810) 732-1161 Fax dconklin@thegdl.org<mailto:dconklin@thegdl.org> Genesee District Library Headquarters 4195 W. Pasadena Avenue Flint, MI 48504 From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of James Lenze Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 5:18 PM To: Gail Madziar <gmadziar@milibraries.org>; jmarks@baycountylibrary.org; michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Jeanette, Here is a sample of what you may have missed: Prior to SB571, as long as we did not suggest how one should vote, we could: 1. Use library resources to prepare and mail informational materials about local ballot issues - including postcards reminding people to vote. 2. Include factual information about the ballot issue in our newsletters. 3. Be interviewed on our local cable channel about the ballot issues. 4. Speak at televised City Council meetings about the ballot issues. 5. Rebut factually erroneous statements made by the public at televised Council meetings. Now, I need a legal opinion to tell me if any of these are permissible. James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org<mailto:jamesl@gardencitymi.org> Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 [smile]<http://smile.amazon.com/ch/46-2488901> From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Gail Madziar Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 4:46 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org>; michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Jeanette makes a valid point. You may certainly answer reference questions. MLA continues to work on this issue, its repercussions and possible solutions. Watch for more information in Thursday's MLA Update. Take care, Gail Madziar Michigan Library Association gmadziar@milibraries.org<mailto:gmadziar@milibraries.org> From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 4:32 PM To: James Lenze <jamesl@Gardencitymi.org<mailto:jamesl@Gardencitymi.org>>; michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>>; Melissa Armstrong <melissa@carolibrary.org<mailto:melissa@carolibrary.org>> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 I must be missing something in the bill. I thought it was redundant as we all know we cannot use library money to print materials on library ballot issues, we cannot use staff time to work on millage proposals, we cannot promote our library's millage proposal while working on the clock, etc. I read that we can still hand out the League of Women Voters material, tell a patron which precinct they are registered to vote in, and tell them if their community has a local election. Those are valid reference questions and resources. Period. If they aren't, then what about the political books that are purchased? Can we not have them in the collection? Do they go in hiding for 60 days prior to an election? Ridiculous! We keep on rockin' our bad librarian selves, people! Keep answering those reference questions. Just don't think you can print out or distribute political literature or wear Vote for the ACME Library t-shirts while working the desk. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org> ________________________________ From: "Melissa Armstrong" <melissa@carolibrary.org<mailto:melissa@carolibrary.org>> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 3:36 PM To: "James Lenze" <jamesl@Gardencitymi.org<mailto:jamesl@Gardencitymi.org>>, jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org>, michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>, "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>> Subject: RE: [Michlib-l] SB 571 I tend to agree.. He can ask the law makers to go back and make it right but I am sure it won't be done. The whole thing is nonsense and only hinders us from doing our jobs as well as schools. It is very upsetting. Melissa Armstrong Assistant Director Caro Area District Library 840 W Frank Street Caro, Michigan 48723 989-673-4329 ext. 107 melissa@carolibrary.org<mailto:melissa@carolibrary.org> [Signature SizeCaro-Area-District-Library-Logo] From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of James Lenze Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:36 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org>; michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>; Pam Withrow Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 While this is nice, how much weight does the Governor's interpretation carry in a court of law? I mean, this is not the same as an Attorney General's Opinion, is it? James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org<mailto:jamesl@gardencitymi.org> Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 [smile]<http://smile.amazon.com/ch/46-2488901> From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:23 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Thank you so much for sharing, Pam. I did not interpret the new bill as preventing librarians from providing reference service to patrons with election questions. Hopefully others will feel comfortable in providing reference service as well. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org> ________________________________ From: "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:42 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@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

I would surmise that it would still be permissible to request that a local newspaper prepare an article at an appropriate time prior to an election. Of course, a reporter would have to provide pros and cons. Just an idea to toss into the mix... Donald E. Worrell, Jr., Director Mount Clemens Public Library Sent from my iPhone
On Jan 11, 2016, at 5:44 PM, David Conklin <dconklin@thegdl.org> wrote:
illegal.
Text from Gov. Synder’s “clarification” letter:

I agree. The law is very vague and has too much room for interpretations. For example, If someone calls a public library and asks about an upcoming mileage and it is 3 weeks away, we are basically to say I'm sorry I can't respond to that without breaking the law. This is so frustrating.. Melissa Armstrong Assistant Director Caro Area District Library 840 W Frank Street Caro, Michigan 48723 989-673-4329 ext. 107 melissa@carolibrary.org Signature SizeCaro-Area-District-Library-Logo From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of David Conklin Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 5:44 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org; michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Here is what concerns me: Text from Public Act 269 of 2015 (formerly SB 571) under CONTENT: http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2015-2016/billanalysis/Senate/pdf/20 15-SFA-0571-N.pdf "Prohibit a public body, within 60 days before an election in which a local ballot question appears on the ballot, from using public funds or resources for a communication by radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message if the communication refers to a local ballot question." This language was a bit bothersome but was specific in that ".if the communication refers to a local ballot question." it was illegal. Text from Gov. Synder's "clarification" letter: http://www.michigan.gov/documents/snyder/SB_571_signing_letter_510083_7.pdf ".it is intended to prohibit communications that are plain attempts to influence voters without using words like "vote for" or "support."" This sounds worse and flings the interpretation windows wide open. Now any ad can be construed to be an attempt to influence voters and now illegal. Before the lines were clear no tax dollars promoting a yes vote. :o/ Dave David Conklin Director Genesee District Library (810) 230-3335 Office (810) 732-1161 Fax <mailto:dconklin@thegdl.org> dconklin@thegdl.org Genesee District Library Headquarters 4195 W. Pasadena Avenue Flint, MI 48504 From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of James Lenze Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 5:18 PM To: Gail Madziar <gmadziar@milibraries.org>; jmarks@baycountylibrary.org; michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Jeanette, Here is a sample of what you may have missed: Prior to SB571, as long as we did not suggest how one should vote, we could: 1. Use library resources to prepare and mail informational materials about local ballot issues - including postcards reminding people to vote. 2. Include factual information about the ballot issue in our newsletters. 3. Be interviewed on our local cable channel about the ballot issues. 4. Speak at televised City Council meetings about the ballot issues. 5. Rebut factually erroneous statements made by the public at televised Council meetings. Now, I need a legal opinion to tell me if any of these are permissible. James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 <http://smile.amazon.com/ch/46-2488901> smile From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Gail Madziar Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 4:46 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org; michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Jeanette makes a valid point. You may certainly answer reference questions. MLA continues to work on this issue, its repercussions and possible solutions. Watch for more information in Thursday's MLA Update. Take care, Gail Madziar Michigan Library Association gmadziar@milibraries.org From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 4:32 PM To: James Lenze <jamesl@Gardencitymi.org>; michlib-l@mcls.org; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>; Melissa Armstrong <melissa@carolibrary.org> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 I must be missing something in the bill. I thought it was redundant as we all know we cannot use library money to print materials on library ballot issues, we cannot use staff time to work on millage proposals, we cannot promote our library's millage proposal while working on the clock, etc. I read that we can still hand out the League of Women Voters material, tell a patron which precinct they are registered to vote in, and tell them if their community has a local election. Those are valid reference questions and resources. Period. If they aren't, then what about the political books that are purchased? Can we not have them in the collection? Do they go in hiding for 60 days prior to an election? Ridiculous! We keep on rockin' our bad librarian selves, people! Keep answering those reference questions. Just don't think you can print out or distribute political literature or wear Vote for the ACME Library t-shirts while working the desk. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org _____ From: "Melissa Armstrong" <melissa@carolibrary.org> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 3:36 PM To: "James Lenze" <jamesl@Gardencitymi.org>, jmarks@baycountylibrary.org, michlib-l@mcls.org, "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Subject: RE: [Michlib-l] SB 571 I tend to agree.. He can ask the law makers to go back and make it right but I am sure it won't be done. The whole thing is nonsense and only hinders us from doing our jobs as well as schools. It is very upsetting. Melissa Armstrong Assistant Director Caro Area District Library 840 W Frank Street Caro, Michigan 48723 989-673-4329 ext. 107 melissa@carolibrary.org Signature SizeCaro-Area-District-Library-Logo From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of James Lenze Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:36 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org; michlib-l@mcls.org; Pam Withrow Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 While this is nice, how much weight does the Governor's interpretation carry in a court of law? I mean, this is not the same as an Attorney General's Opinion, is it? James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 <http://smile.amazon.com/ch/46-2488901> smile From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:23 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Thank you so much for sharing, Pam. I did not interpret the new bill as preventing librarians from providing reference service to patrons with election questions. Hopefully others will feel comfortable in providing reference service as well. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org _____ From: "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:42 PM To: michlib-l@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

Melissa, There are a lot of things I find troublesome about the recently passed legislation. However, there's nothing in the language of the law that would prohibit staff from answering questions about a ballot proposal over the phone or via e-mail or in person. I know many in the library world have the impression that this creates a blanket restriction on communications about local ballot proposals. It does not. The relevant language is: "a public body, or a person acting for a public body, shall not, during the period 60 days before an election in which a local ballot question appears on a ballot, use public funds or resources for a communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message if that communication references a local ballot question and is targeted to the relevant electorate where the local ballot question appears on the ballot." The prohibition applies to the following forms of communication: - Radio - Television - Mass mailing (defined in the law as "mailing by United States mail or facsimile of more than 500 pieces of mail matter of an identical or substantially similar nature within any 30-day period" - Prerecorded telephone message when that communication references "a local ballot question" and the communication is "targeted to the relevant electorate where the local ballot question appears on the ballot". You can see from that list that nowhere does it reference one-on-one communications. It also does not preclude the library from setting out informational flyers in the library or elsewhere in the community. There's zero reference to electronic communication so the library should be able to use the library's web site, social networking sites and even mass e-mailing to communicate with voters. David Conklin raised the concern about billboards. There's nothing in the language as it is currently written that would make it apply to billboards. I would fully agree that the new law is overly restrictive and unnecessary as advocacy was already prohibited. But as I read it, I don't think it applies as broadly as some people believe and in some areas, like electronic communications, public bodies are still free to share information without worrying about these newly imposed restrictions. My 2 cents - I'm not an attorney! Andrew Mutch My comments are my opinion and may not reflect those of my employer. From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Melissa Armstrong Sent: Tuesday, January 12, 2016 9:07 AM To: 'David Conklin'; jmarks@baycountylibrary.org; michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 I agree. The law is very vague and has too much room for interpretations. For example, If someone calls a public library and asks about an upcoming mileage and it is 3 weeks away, we are basically to say I'm sorry I can't respond to that without breaking the law. This is so frustrating.. Melissa Armstrong Assistant Director Caro Area District Library 840 W Frank Street Caro, Michigan 48723 989-673-4329 ext. 107 melissa@carolibrary.org<mailto:melissa@carolibrary.org> [Signature SizeCaro-Area-District-Library-Logo] From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of David Conklin Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 5:44 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org>; michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Here is what concerns me: Text from Public Act 269 of 2015 (formerly SB 571) under CONTENT: http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2015-2016/billanalysis/Senate/pdf/20... "Prohibit a public body, within 60 days before an election in which a local ballot question appears on the ballot, from using public funds or resources for a communication by radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message if the communication refers to a local ballot question." This language was a bit bothersome but was specific in that "...if the communication refers to a local ballot question." it was illegal. Text from Gov. Synder's "clarification" letter: http://www.michigan.gov/documents/snyder/SB_571_signing_letter_510083_7.pdf "...it is intended to prohibit communications that are plain attempts to influence voters without using words like "vote for" or "support."" This sounds worse and flings the interpretation windows wide open. Now any ad can be construed to be an attempt to influence voters and now illegal. Before the lines were clear no tax dollars promoting a yes vote. :o/ Dave David Conklin Director Genesee District Library (810) 230-3335 Office (810) 732-1161 Fax dconklin@thegdl.org<mailto:dconklin@thegdl.org> Genesee District Library Headquarters 4195 W. Pasadena Avenue Flint, MI 48504 From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of James Lenze Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 5:18 PM To: Gail Madziar <gmadziar@milibraries.org<mailto:gmadziar@milibraries.org>>; jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org>; michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Jeanette, Here is a sample of what you may have missed: Prior to SB571, as long as we did not suggest how one should vote, we could: 1. Use library resources to prepare and mail informational materials about local ballot issues - including postcards reminding people to vote. 2. Include factual information about the ballot issue in our newsletters. 3. Be interviewed on our local cable channel about the ballot issues. 4. Speak at televised City Council meetings about the ballot issues. 5. Rebut factually erroneous statements made by the public at televised Council meetings. Now, I need a legal opinion to tell me if any of these are permissible. James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org<mailto:jamesl@gardencitymi.org> Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 [smile]<http://smile.amazon.com/ch/46-2488901> From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Gail Madziar Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 4:46 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org>; michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Jeanette makes a valid point. You may certainly answer reference questions. MLA continues to work on this issue, its repercussions and possible solutions. Watch for more information in Thursday's MLA Update. Take care, Gail Madziar Michigan Library Association gmadziar@milibraries.org<mailto:gmadziar@milibraries.org> From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 4:32 PM To: James Lenze <jamesl@Gardencitymi.org<mailto:jamesl@Gardencitymi.org>>; michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>>; Melissa Armstrong <melissa@carolibrary.org<mailto:melissa@carolibrary.org>> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 I must be missing something in the bill. I thought it was redundant as we all know we cannot use library money to print materials on library ballot issues, we cannot use staff time to work on millage proposals, we cannot promote our library's millage proposal while working on the clock, etc. I read that we can still hand out the League of Women Voters material, tell a patron which precinct they are registered to vote in, and tell them if their community has a local election. Those are valid reference questions and resources. Period. If they aren't, then what about the political books that are purchased? Can we not have them in the collection? Do they go in hiding for 60 days prior to an election? Ridiculous! We keep on rockin' our bad librarian selves, people! Keep answering those reference questions. Just don't think you can print out or distribute political literature or wear Vote for the ACME Library t-shirts while working the desk. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org> ________________________________ From: "Melissa Armstrong" <melissa@carolibrary.org<mailto:melissa@carolibrary.org>> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 3:36 PM To: "James Lenze" <jamesl@Gardencitymi.org<mailto:jamesl@Gardencitymi.org>>, jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org>, michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>, "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>> Subject: RE: [Michlib-l] SB 571 I tend to agree.. He can ask the law makers to go back and make it right but I am sure it won't be done. The whole thing is nonsense and only hinders us from doing our jobs as well as schools. It is very upsetting. Melissa Armstrong Assistant Director Caro Area District Library 840 W Frank Street Caro, Michigan 48723 989-673-4329 ext. 107 melissa@carolibrary.org<mailto:melissa@carolibrary.org> [Signature SizeCaro-Area-District-Library-Logo] From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of James Lenze Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:36 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org>; michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>; Pam Withrow Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 While this is nice, how much weight does the Governor's interpretation carry in a court of law? I mean, this is not the same as an Attorney General's Opinion, is it? James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org<mailto:jamesl@gardencitymi.org> Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 [smile]<http://smile.amazon.com/ch/46-2488901> From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:23 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Thank you so much for sharing, Pam. I did not interpret the new bill as preventing librarians from providing reference service to patrons with election questions. Hopefully others will feel comfortable in providing reference service as well. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org> ________________________________ From: "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:42 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@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

Thank you, James. I want to be clear than I am not trying to be obtuse or support SB571. I've worked at two separate libraries that passed their millage by using a citizen group to solicit funds to mail promotional literature, provide and distribute yard signs, and supply phones. This group also conducted interviews on air, on local cable and in print to promote the millage. Staff was not allowed to discuss the millage whatsoever while working. I guess I don't take SB571 too seriously. I suppose this is a good time to make clear that the opinions I've expressed are my own and not that of Bay County Library System. CYA, check. Frustration over politics, check. Still love being a librarian, check. Peace out. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org ---------------------------------------- From: "James Lenze" <jamesl@Gardencitymi.org> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 5:18 PM To: "Gail Madziar" <gmadziar@milibraries.org>, "jmarks@baycountylibrary.org" <jmarks@baycountylibrary.org>, "michlib-l@mcls.org" <michlib-l@mcls.org> Subject: RE: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Jeanette, Here is a sample of what you may have missed: Prior to SB571, as long as we did not suggest how one should vote, we could: 1. Use library resources to prepare and mail informational materials about local ballot issues - including postcards reminding people to vote. 2. Include factual information about the ballot issue in our newsletters. 3. Be interviewed on our local cable channel about the ballot issues. 4. Speak at televised City Council meetings about the ballot issues. 5. Rebut factually erroneous statements made by the public at televised Council meetings. Now, I need a legal opinion to tell me if any of these are permissible. James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Gail Madziar Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 4:46 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org; michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Jeanette makes a valid point. You may certainly answer reference questions. MLA continues to work on this issue, its repercussions and possible solutions. Watch for more information in Thursday's MLA Update. Take care, Gail Madziar Michigan Library Association gmadziar@milibraries.org From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 4:32 PM To: James Lenze <jamesl@Gardencitymi.org>; michlib-l@mcls.org; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>; Melissa Armstrong <melissa@carolibrary.org> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 I must be missing something in the bill. I thought it was redundant as we all know we cannot use library money to print materials on library ballot issues, we cannot use staff time to work on millage proposals, we cannot promote our library's millage proposal while working on the clock, etc. I read that we can still hand out the League of Women Voters material, tell a patron which precinct they are registered to vote in, and tell them if their community has a local election. Those are valid reference questions and resources. Period. If they aren't, then what about the political books that are purchased? Can we not have them in the collection? Do they go in hiding for 60 days prior to an election? Ridiculous! We keep on rockin' our bad librarian selves, people! Keep answering those reference questions. Just don't think you can print out or distribute political literature or wear Vote for the ACME Library t-shirts while working the desk. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org ---------------------------------------- From: "Melissa Armstrong" <melissa@carolibrary.org> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 3:36 PM To: "James Lenze" <jamesl@Gardencitymi.org>, jmarks@baycountylibrary.org, michlib-l@mcls.org, "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Subject: RE: [Michlib-l] SB 571 I tend to agree.. He can ask the law makers to go back and make it right but I am sure it won't be done. The whole thing is nonsense and only hinders us from doing our jobs as well as schools. It is very upsetting. Melissa Armstrong Assistant Director Caro Area District Library 840 W Frank Street Caro, Michigan 48723 989-673-4329 ext. 107 melissa@carolibrary.org From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of James Lenze Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:36 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org; michlib-l@mcls.org; Pam Withrow Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 While this is nice, how much weight does the Governor's interpretation carry in a court of law? I mean, this is not the same as an Attorney General's Opinion, is it? James B Lenze, Director jamesl@gardencitymi.org Garden City Public Library 31735 Maplewood St Garden City, MI 48135 From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:23 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org; Pam Withrow <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Thank you so much for sharing, Pam. I did not interpret the new bill as preventing librarians from providing reference service to patrons with election questions. Hopefully others will feel comfortable in providing reference service as well. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org ---------------------------------------- From: "Pam Withrow" <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:42 PM To: michlib-l@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

Pam, The Governor's is free to share his interpretation of the language in the law. He states: "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." However, if you read the language of the law, it makes no such distinction. Specifically, it reads: "...a public body, or a person acting for a public body, shall not, during the period 60 days before an election in which a local ballot question appears on a ballot, use public funds or resources for a communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message if that communication references a local ballot question and is targeted to the relevant electorate where the local ballot question appears on the ballot." There's no qualifier about "plain attempts to influence voters". The plain language of the law forbids any communications that reference "a local ballot question" and "is targeted to the relevant electorate". The Governor's interpretation doesn't really make sense anyways because there's already language in the law that prohibits the kind of advocacy that he states the new language was intended to address. That is likely why this new language doesn't include that distinction. It wasn't intended to continue to allow factual information to be distributed, it was intended to cut off the flow of information. I would also note that the Governor is not the one potentially facing a fine or jail for violating this new provision if someone decides to challenge the communications sent out by a local unit of government. As I read the language of the law, the prohibition appears to cover: - Any mass mailing (mail or facsimile of more than 500 pieces of mail) by a public body to voters or residents within 60 days of an election that references a local ballot proposal. The language appears to outlaw even stating that there's a proposal on the ballot or simply including the ballot language. - Any program or slide on a local public access channel that references a local ballot proposal that is directed at voters. Some have asked whether this would cover broadcasts of general public meetings that reference ballot proposals. I think one could argue that those are not "targeted" and so the limitation wouldn't apply to those broadcasts so long as the primary purpose of the meeting was not about the local ballot proposal (a regularly scheduled library board or city council meeting). - Any robocall that references a local ballot proposal. I know that some in the library community have raised concerns about personal interactions with patrons. The language is limited to the means of communications as delineated in the new section. Communications that fall outside those limitations, such as one-on-one interactions with patrons, do not appear to be prohibited by that language. Of note is that none of the prohibitions appear to apply to Internet-based communication. It appears that a public body could continue to use its web site, social networking sites and mass e-mailings (mass mailing is defined in the law as applying to postal mail and faxes) to disseminate information about a local ballot proposal without running afoul of this new language. David Conklin also mentioned billboards. The new section states that it applies to "communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message". Since a billboard doesn't fall under the definition of any of those means, it would appear those are safe to use too. But any public body seeking to share information about a local ballot proposal should talk to the attorneys first. My 2 cents - I'm not an attorney! Andrew Mutch My comments are my opinion and may not reflect those of my employer. From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Pam Withrow Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:41 PM To: michlib-l@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

My apologies for the duplication of messages. I sent this earlier in the week but it appears to have gotten stuck in the queue because MichLib only had my "old" e-mail address registered to the list. The points I made still stand, they're just duplicative of some comments that actually made it to the list that were sent from my "new" address. Andrew Mutch From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Mutch, Andrew Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:30 PM To: 'Pam Withrow' Cc: michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Pam, The Governor's is free to share his interpretation of the language in the law. He states: "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." However, if you read the language of the law, it makes no such distinction. Specifically, it reads: "...a public body, or a person acting for a public body, shall not, during the period 60 days before an election in which a local ballot question appears on a ballot, use public funds or resources for a communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message if that communication references a local ballot question and is targeted to the relevant electorate where the local ballot question appears on the ballot." There's no qualifier about "plain attempts to influence voters". The plain language of the law forbids any communications that reference "a local ballot question" and "is targeted to the relevant electorate". The Governor's interpretation doesn't really make sense anyways because there's already language in the law that prohibits the kind of advocacy that he states the new language was intended to address. That is likely why this new language doesn't include that distinction. It wasn't intended to continue to allow factual information to be distributed, it was intended to cut off the flow of information. I would also note that the Governor is not the one potentially facing a fine or jail for violating this new provision if someone decides to challenge the communications sent out by a local unit of government. As I read the language of the law, the prohibition appears to cover: - Any mass mailing (mail or facsimile of more than 500 pieces of mail) by a public body to voters or residents within 60 days of an election that references a local ballot proposal. The language appears to outlaw even stating that there's a proposal on the ballot or simply including the ballot language. - Any program or slide on a local public access channel that references a local ballot proposal that is directed at voters. Some have asked whether this would cover broadcasts of general public meetings that reference ballot proposals. I think one could argue that those are not "targeted" and so the limitation wouldn't apply to those broadcasts so long as the primary purpose of the meeting was not about the local ballot proposal (a regularly scheduled library board or city council meeting). - Any robocall that references a local ballot proposal. I know that some in the library community have raised concerns about personal interactions with patrons. The language is limited to the means of communications as delineated in the new section. Communications that fall outside those limitations, such as one-on-one interactions with patrons, do not appear to be prohibited by that language. Of note is that none of the prohibitions appear to apply to Internet-based communication. It appears that a public body could continue to use its web site, social networking sites and mass e-mailings (mass mailing is defined in the law as applying to postal mail and faxes) to disseminate information about a local ballot proposal without running afoul of this new language. David Conklin also mentioned billboards. The new section states that it applies to "communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message". Since a billboard doesn't fall under the definition of any of those means, it would appear those are safe to use too. But any public body seeking to share information about a local ballot proposal should talk to the attorneys first. My 2 cents - I'm not an attorney! Andrew Mutch My comments are my opinion and may not reflect those of my employer. From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Pam Withrow Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:41 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@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

I'm also not an attorney, however, it seems the key to this whole confusing issue is the use of "public funds or resources", no matter what the media. Haven't libraries always been cognizant of this restriction? It seems especially pertinent where millage campaigns are involved, to the point that we met off-site for strategy sessions. So, as a trustee, my opinion is worth what I'm charging you to read it. Deb Lawson From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Mutch, Andrew Sent: Wednesday, January 13, 2016 10:15 AM To: michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 My apologies for the duplication of messages. I sent this earlier in the week but it appears to have gotten stuck in the queue because MichLib only had my "old" e-mail address registered to the list. The points I made still stand, they're just duplicative of some comments that actually made it to the list that were sent from my "new" address. Andrew Mutch From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Mutch, Andrew Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:30 PM To: 'Pam Withrow' Cc: michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Pam, The Governor's is free to share his interpretation of the language in the law. He states: "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." However, if you read the language of the law, it makes no such distinction. Specifically, it reads: ".a public body, or a person acting for a public body, shall not, during the period 60 days before an election in which a local ballot question appears on a ballot, use public funds or resources for a communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message if that communication references a local ballot question and is targeted to the relevant electorate where the local ballot question appears on the ballot." There's no qualifier about "plain attempts to influence voters". The plain language of the law forbids any communications that reference "a local ballot question" and "is targeted to the relevant electorate". The Governor's interpretation doesn't really make sense anyways because there's already language in the law that prohibits the kind of advocacy that he states the new language was intended to address. That is likely why this new language doesn't include that distinction. It wasn't intended to continue to allow factual information to be distributed, it was intended to cut off the flow of information. I would also note that the Governor is not the one potentially facing a fine or jail for violating this new provision if someone decides to challenge the communications sent out by a local unit of government. As I read the language of the law, the prohibition appears to cover: - Any mass mailing (mail or facsimile of more than 500 pieces of mail) by a public body to voters or residents within 60 days of an election that references a local ballot proposal. The language appears to outlaw even stating that there's a proposal on the ballot or simply including the ballot language. - Any program or slide on a local public access channel that references a local ballot proposal that is directed at voters. Some have asked whether this would cover broadcasts of general public meetings that reference ballot proposals. I think one could argue that those are not "targeted" and so the limitation wouldn't apply to those broadcasts so long as the primary purpose of the meeting was not about the local ballot proposal (a regularly scheduled library board or city council meeting). - Any robocall that references a local ballot proposal. I know that some in the library community have raised concerns about personal interactions with patrons. The language is limited to the means of communications as delineated in the new section. Communications that fall outside those limitations, such as one-on-one interactions with patrons, do not appear to be prohibited by that language. Of note is that none of the prohibitions appear to apply to Internet-based communication. It appears that a public body could continue to use its web site, social networking sites and mass e-mailings (mass mailing is defined in the law as applying to postal mail and faxes) to disseminate information about a local ballot proposal without running afoul of this new language. David Conklin also mentioned billboards. The new section states that it applies to "communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message". Since a billboard doesn't fall under the definition of any of those means, it would appear those are safe to use too. But any public body seeking to share information about a local ballot proposal should talk to the attorneys first. My 2 cents - I'm not an attorney! Andrew Mutch My comments are my opinion and may not reflect those of my employer. From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Pam Withrow Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:41 PM To: michlib-l@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

Ok, I wasn't going to join in but now I'm curious if anyone else noticed the same thing. To me, the new language is only prohibiting the "use of public funds or resources" for communication. If, say, your Millage Committee is paying for a mass-mailing or some other form of communication with their own funds that they acquired by fundraising or whatever, then I don't see it as a violation. No "public funds" were used. Granted, I didn't think a public body could use their own funds anyway so this "new" law seems a bit redundant. In addition, as long as the communication doesn't specifically "reference a local ballot question" and just gives out factual information regarding the library, I don't see that it violates this "new" law either. Again, a bit of redundancy. In short, I believe that as long as public funds are not used for the communication, any communication may be done. If public funds are used, then the communication can't reference a local ballot question. That is my take anyway. Granted, I'm not an attorney either. Am I missing something? Marlena Arras Director of Financial Services Charlotte Community Library 226 S Bostwick Charlotte MI 48813 (517) 543-8859 From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Mutch, Andrew Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:30 PM To: 'Pam Withrow' <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Cc: michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Pam, The Governor's is free to share his interpretation of the language in the law. He states: "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." However, if you read the language of the law, it makes no such distinction. Specifically, it reads: ".a public body, or a person acting for a public body, shall not, during the period 60 days before an election in which a local ballot question appears on a ballot, use public funds or resources for a communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message if that communication references a local ballot question and is targeted to the relevant electorate where the local ballot question appears on the ballot." There's no qualifier about "plain attempts to influence voters". The plain language of the law forbids any communications that reference "a local ballot question" and "is targeted to the relevant electorate". The Governor's interpretation doesn't really make sense anyways because there's already language in the law that prohibits the kind of advocacy that he states the new language was intended to address. That is likely why this new language doesn't include that distinction. It wasn't intended to continue to allow factual information to be distributed, it was intended to cut off the flow of information. I would also note that the Governor is not the one potentially facing a fine or jail for violating this new provision if someone decides to challenge the communications sent out by a local unit of government. As I read the language of the law, the prohibition appears to cover: - Any mass mailing (mail or facsimile of more than 500 pieces of mail) by a public body to voters or residents within 60 days of an election that references a local ballot proposal. The language appears to outlaw even stating that there's a proposal on the ballot or simply including the ballot language. - Any program or slide on a local public access channel that references a local ballot proposal that is directed at voters. Some have asked whether this would cover broadcasts of general public meetings that reference ballot proposals. I think one could argue that those are not "targeted" and so the limitation wouldn't apply to those broadcasts so long as the primary purpose of the meeting was not about the local ballot proposal (a regularly scheduled library board or city council meeting). - Any robocall that references a local ballot proposal. I know that some in the library community have raised concerns about personal interactions with patrons. The language is limited to the means of communications as delineated in the new section. Communications that fall outside those limitations, such as one-on-one interactions with patrons, do not appear to be prohibited by that language. Of note is that none of the prohibitions appear to apply to Internet-based communication. It appears that a public body could continue to use its web site, social networking sites and mass e-mailings (mass mailing is defined in the law as applying to postal mail and faxes) to disseminate information about a local ballot proposal without running afoul of this new language. David Conklin also mentioned billboards. The new section states that it applies to "communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message". Since a billboard doesn't fall under the definition of any of those means, it would appear those are safe to use too. But any public body seeking to share information about a local ballot proposal should talk to the attorneys first. My 2 cents - I'm not an attorney! Andrew Mutch My comments are my opinion and may not reflect those of my employer. From: <mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [ <mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Pam Withrow Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:41 PM To: <mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org> michlib-l@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

Marlena, I interpreted the new bill in much the same way. There is redundancy and I see ways for libraries to finagle around it. I'm not an attorney and these opinions are my own. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org ---------------------------------------- From: arrasm@charlottelibrary.org Sent: Wednesday, January 13, 2016 1:53 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Ok, I wasn't going to join in but now I'm curious if anyone else noticed the same thing. To me, the new language is only prohibiting the "use of public funds or resources" for communication. If, say, your Millage Committee is paying for a mass-mailing or some other form of communication with their own funds that they acquired by fundraising or whatever, then I don't see it as a violation. No "public funds" were used. Granted, I didn't think a public body could use their own funds anyway so this "new" law seems a bit redundant. In addition, as long as the communication doesn't specifically "reference a local ballot question" and just gives out factual information regarding the library, I don't see that it violates this "new" law either. Again, a bit of redundancy. In short, I believe that as long as public funds are not used for the communication, any communication may be done. If public funds are used, then the communication can't reference a local ballot question. That is my take anyway. Granted, I'm not an attorney either. Am I missing something? Marlena Arras Director of Financial Services Charlotte Community Library 226 S Bostwick Charlotte MI 48813 (517) 543-8859 From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Mutch, Andrew Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:30 PM To: 'Pam Withrow' <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Cc: michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Pam, The Governor's is free to share his interpretation of the language in the law. He states: "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." However, if you read the language of the law, it makes no such distinction. Specifically, it reads: ".a public body, or a person acting for a public body, shall not, during the period 60 days before an election in which a local ballot question appears on a ballot, use public funds or resources for a communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message if that communication references a local ballot question and is targeted to the relevant electorate where the local ballot question appears on the ballot." There's no qualifier about "plain attempts to influence voters". The plain language of the law forbids any communications that reference "a local ballot question" and "is targeted to the relevant electorate". The Governor's interpretation doesn't really make sense anyways because there's already language in the law that prohibits the kind of advocacy that he states the new language was intended to address. That is likely why this new language doesn't include that distinction. It wasn't intended to continue to allow factual information to be distributed, it was intended to cut off the flow of information. I would also note that the Governor is not the one potentially facing a fine or jail for violating this new provision if someone decides to challenge the communications sent out by a local unit of government. As I read the language of the law, the prohibition appears to cover: - Any mass mailing (mail or facsimile of more than 500 pieces of mail) by a public body to voters or residents within 60 days of an election that references a local ballot proposal. The language appears to outlaw even stating that there's a proposal on the ballot or simply including the ballot language. - Any program or slide on a local public access channel that references a local ballot proposal that is directed at voters. Some have asked whether this would cover broadcasts of general public meetings that reference ballot proposals. I think one could argue that those are not "targeted" and so the limitation wouldn't apply to those broadcasts so long as the primary purpose of the meeting was not about the local ballot proposal (a regularly scheduled library board or city council meeting). - Any robocall that references a local ballot proposal. I know that some in the library community have raised concerns about personal interactions with patrons. The language is limited to the means of communications as delineated in the new section. Communications that fall outside those limitations, such as one-on-one interactions with patrons, do not appear to be prohibited by that language. Of note is that none of the prohibitions appear to apply to Internet-based communication. It appears that a public body could continue to use its web site, social networking sites and mass e-mailings (mass mailing is defined in the law as applying to postal mail and faxes) to disseminate information about a local ballot proposal without running afoul of this new language. David Conklin also mentioned billboards. The new section states that it applies to "communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message". Since a billboard doesn't fall under the definition of any of those means, it would appear those are safe to use too. But any public body seeking to share information about a local ballot proposal should talk to the attorneys first. My 2 cents - I'm not an attorney! Andrew Mutch My comments are my opinion and may not reflect those of my employer. From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Pam Withrow Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:41 PM To: michlib-l@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

But public funds do include our salaries and wages, correct? Melissa Armstrong Assistant Director Caro Area District Library 840 W Frank Street Caro, Michigan 48723 989-673-4329 ext. 107 melissa@carolibrary.org Signature SizeCaro-Area-District-Library-Logo From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Wednesday, January 13, 2016 1:58 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org; arrasm@charlottelibrary.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Marlena, I interpreted the new bill in much the same way. There is redundancy and I see ways for libraries to finagle around it. I'm not an attorney and these opinions are my own. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org _____ From: arrasm@charlottelibrary.org Sent: Wednesday, January 13, 2016 1:53 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Ok, I wasn't going to join in but now I'm curious if anyone else noticed the same thing. To me, the new language is only prohibiting the "use of public funds or resources" for communication. If, say, your Millage Committee is paying for a mass-mailing or some other form of communication with their own funds that they acquired by fundraising or whatever, then I don't see it as a violation. No "public funds" were used. Granted, I didn't think a public body could use their own funds anyway so this "new" law seems a bit redundant. In addition, as long as the communication doesn't specifically "reference a local ballot question" and just gives out factual information regarding the library, I don't see that it violates this "new" law either. Again, a bit of redundancy. In short, I believe that as long as public funds are not used for the communication, any communication may be done. If public funds are used, then the communication can't reference a local ballot question. That is my take anyway. Granted, I'm not an attorney either. Am I missing something? Marlena Arras Director of Financial Services Charlotte Community Library 226 S Bostwick Charlotte MI 48813 (517) 543-8859 From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Mutch, Andrew Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:30 PM To: 'Pam Withrow' <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Cc: michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Pam, The Governor's is free to share his interpretation of the language in the law. He states: "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." However, if you read the language of the law, it makes no such distinction. Specifically, it reads: ".a public body, or a person acting for a public body, shall not, during the period 60 days before an election in which a local ballot question appears on a ballot, use public funds or resources for a communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message if that communication references a local ballot question and is targeted to the relevant electorate where the local ballot question appears on the ballot." There's no qualifier about "plain attempts to influence voters". The plain language of the law forbids any communications that reference "a local ballot question" and "is targeted to the relevant electorate". The Governor's interpretation doesn't really make sense anyways because there's already language in the law that prohibits the kind of advocacy that he states the new language was intended to address. That is likely why this new language doesn't include that distinction. It wasn't intended to continue to allow factual information to be distributed, it was intended to cut off the flow of information. I would also note that the Governor is not the one potentially facing a fine or jail for violating this new provision if someone decides to challenge the communications sent out by a local unit of government. As I read the language of the law, the prohibition appears to cover: - Any mass mailing (mail or facsimile of more than 500 pieces of mail) by a public body to voters or residents within 60 days of an election that references a local ballot proposal. The language appears to outlaw even stating that there's a proposal on the ballot or simply including the ballot language. - Any program or slide on a local public access channel that references a local ballot proposal that is directed at voters. Some have asked whether this would cover broadcasts of general public meetings that reference ballot proposals. I think one could argue that those are not "targeted" and so the limitation wouldn't apply to those broadcasts so long as the primary purpose of the meeting was not about the local ballot proposal (a regularly scheduled library board or city council meeting). - Any robocall that references a local ballot proposal. I know that some in the library community have raised concerns about personal interactions with patrons. The language is limited to the means of communications as delineated in the new section. Communications that fall outside those limitations, such as one-on-one interactions with patrons, do not appear to be prohibited by that language. Of note is that none of the prohibitions appear to apply to Internet-based communication. It appears that a public body could continue to use its web site, social networking sites and mass e-mailings (mass mailing is defined in the law as applying to postal mail and faxes) to disseminate information about a local ballot proposal without running afoul of this new language. David Conklin also mentioned billboards. The new section states that it applies to "communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message". Since a billboard doesn't fall under the definition of any of those means, it would appear those are safe to use too. But any public body seeking to share information about a local ballot proposal should talk to the attorneys first. My 2 cents - I'm not an attorney! Andrew Mutch My comments are my opinion and may not reflect those of my employer. From: <mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [ <mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Pam Withrow Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:41 PM To: <mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org> michlib-l@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

Public funds/resources is only relevant as it applies to "communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message" where the communication "references a local ballot question and is targeted to the relevant electorate where the local ballot question appears on the ballot". If public funds are being used for communication by any other means or for any other purpose, the law does not appear to apply with the caveat that advocacy using public funds/resources has been and continues to be illegal under the state's campaign finance laws. Staff could never advocate for a library ballot proposal during working hours. Likewise, library resources could never be used for advocacy purposes. Andrew From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Melissa Armstrong Sent: Wednesday, January 13, 2016 2:20 PM To: jmarks@baycountylibrary.org; michlib-l@mcls.org; arrasm@charlottelibrary.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 But public funds do include our salaries and wages, correct? Melissa Armstrong Assistant Director Caro Area District Library 840 W Frank Street Caro, Michigan 48723 989-673-4329 ext. 107 melissa@carolibrary.org<mailto:melissa@carolibrary.org> [Signature SizeCaro-Area-District-Library-Logo] From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Jeanette Marks Sent: Wednesday, January 13, 2016 1:58 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org>; arrasm@charlottelibrary.org<mailto:arrasm@charlottelibrary.org> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Marlena, I interpreted the new bill in much the same way. There is redundancy and I see ways for libraries to finagle around it. I'm not an attorney and these opinions are my own. Jeanette Marks, Managing Librarian Bay County Library System Pinconning Branch Library 218 Kaiser St. Pinconning, MI 48650 PH 989-879-3283 ext. 207 FAX 989-879-5669 jmarks@baycountylibrary.org<mailto:jmarks@baycountylibrary.org> ________________________________ From: arrasm@charlottelibrary.org<mailto:arrasm@charlottelibrary.org> Sent: Wednesday, January 13, 2016 1:53 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Ok, I wasn't going to join in but now I'm curious if anyone else noticed the same thing. To me, the new language is only prohibiting the "use of public funds or resources" for communication. If, say, your Millage Committee is paying for a mass-mailing or some other form of communication with their own funds that they acquired by fundraising or whatever, then I don't see it as a violation. No "public funds" were used. Granted, I didn't think a public body could use their own funds anyway so this "new" law seems a bit redundant. In addition, as long as the communication doesn't specifically "reference a local ballot question" and just gives out factual information regarding the library, I don't see that it violates this "new" law either. Again, a bit of redundancy. In short, I believe that as long as public funds are not used for the communication, any communication may be done. If public funds are used, then the communication can't reference a local ballot question. That is my take anyway. Granted, I'm not an attorney either. Am I missing something? Marlena Arras Director of Financial Services Charlotte Community Library 226 S Bostwick Charlotte MI 48813 (517) 543-8859 From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Mutch, Andrew Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:30 PM To: 'Pam Withrow' <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us<mailto:pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us>> Cc: michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@mcls.org> Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571 Pam, The Governor's is free to share his interpretation of the language in the law. He states: "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." However, if you read the language of the law, it makes no such distinction. Specifically, it reads: "...a public body, or a person acting for a public body, shall not, during the period 60 days before an election in which a local ballot question appears on a ballot, use public funds or resources for a communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message if that communication references a local ballot question and is targeted to the relevant electorate where the local ballot question appears on the ballot." There's no qualifier about "plain attempts to influence voters". The plain language of the law forbids any communications that reference "a local ballot question" and "is targeted to the relevant electorate". The Governor's interpretation doesn't really make sense anyways because there's already language in the law that prohibits the kind of advocacy that he states the new language was intended to address. That is likely why this new language doesn't include that distinction. It wasn't intended to continue to allow factual information to be distributed, it was intended to cut off the flow of information. I would also note that the Governor is not the one potentially facing a fine or jail for violating this new provision if someone decides to challenge the communications sent out by a local unit of government. As I read the language of the law, the prohibition appears to cover: - Any mass mailing (mail or facsimile of more than 500 pieces of mail) by a public body to voters or residents within 60 days of an election that references a local ballot proposal. The language appears to outlaw even stating that there's a proposal on the ballot or simply including the ballot language. - Any program or slide on a local public access channel that references a local ballot proposal that is directed at voters. Some have asked whether this would cover broadcasts of general public meetings that reference ballot proposals. I think one could argue that those are not "targeted" and so the limitation wouldn't apply to those broadcasts so long as the primary purpose of the meeting was not about the local ballot proposal (a regularly scheduled library board or city council meeting). - Any robocall that references a local ballot proposal. I know that some in the library community have raised concerns about personal interactions with patrons. The language is limited to the means of communications as delineated in the new section. Communications that fall outside those limitations, such as one-on-one interactions with patrons, do not appear to be prohibited by that language. Of note is that none of the prohibitions appear to apply to Internet-based communication. It appears that a public body could continue to use its web site, social networking sites and mass e-mailings (mass mailing is defined in the law as applying to postal mail and faxes) to disseminate information about a local ballot proposal without running afoul of this new language. David Conklin also mentioned billboards. The new section states that it applies to "communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message". Since a billboard doesn't fall under the definition of any of those means, it would appear those are safe to use too. But any public body seeking to share information about a local ballot proposal should talk to the attorneys first. My 2 cents - I'm not an attorney! Andrew Mutch My comments are my opinion and may not reflect those of my employer. From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org> [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Pam Withrow Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:41 PM To: michlib-l@mcls.org<mailto:michlib-l@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

Do public funds pay the salaries of library employees? Pat Sent from my iPad
On Jan 13, 2016, at 1:51 PM, <arrasm@charlottelibrary.org> <arrasm@charlottelibrary.org> wrote:
Ok, I wasn’t going to join in but now I’m curious if anyone else noticed the same thing. To me, the new language is only prohibiting the “use of public funds or resources” for communication. If, say, your Millage Committee is paying for a mass-mailing or some other form of communication with their own funds that they acquired by fundraising or whatever, then I don’t see it as a violation. No “public funds” were used. Granted, I didn’t think a public body could use their own funds anyway so this “new” law seems a bit redundant.
In addition, as long as the communication doesn’t specifically “reference a local ballot question” and just gives out factual information regarding the library, I don’t see that it violates this “new” law either. Again, a bit of redundancy.
In short, I believe that as long as public funds are not used for the communication, any communication may be done. If public funds are used, then the communication can’t reference a local ballot question. That is my take anyway. Granted, I’m not an attorney either.
Am I missing something?
Marlena Arras Director of Financial Services Charlotte Community Library 226 S Bostwick Charlotte MI 48813 (517) 543-8859
From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Mutch, Andrew Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 1:30 PM To: 'Pam Withrow' <pwithrow@uproc.lib.mi.us> Cc: michlib-l@mcls.org Subject: Re: [Michlib-l] SB 571
Pam,
The Governor’s is free to share his interpretation of the language in the law. He states:
“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."
However, if you read the language of the law, it makes no such distinction. Specifically, it reads:
“…a public body, or a person acting for a public body, shall not, during the period 60 days before an election in which a local ballot question appears on a ballot, use public funds or resources for a communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message if that communication references a local ballot question and is targeted to the relevant electorate where the local ballot question appears on the ballot.”
There’s no qualifier about “plain attempts to influence voters”. The plain language of the law forbids any communications that reference “a local ballot question” and “is targeted to the relevant electorate”. The Governor’s interpretation doesn’t really make sense anyways because there’s already language in the law that prohibits the kind of advocacy that he states the new language was intended to address. That is likely why this new language doesn’t include that distinction. It wasn’t intended to continue to allow factual information to be distributed, it was intended to cut off the flow of information. I would also note that the Governor is not the one potentially facing a fine or jail for violating this new provision if someone decides to challenge the communications sent out by a local unit of government.
As I read the language of the law, the prohibition appears to cover: - Any mass mailing (mail or facsimile of more than 500 pieces of mail) by a public body to voters or residents within 60 days of an election that references a local ballot proposal. The language appears to outlaw even stating that there’s a proposal on the ballot or simply including the ballot language. - Any program or slide on a local public access channel that references a local ballot proposal that is directed at voters. Some have asked whether this would cover broadcasts of general public meetings that reference ballot proposals. I think one could argue that those are not “targeted” and so the limitation wouldn’t apply to those broadcasts so long as the primary purpose of the meeting was not about the local ballot proposal (a regularly scheduled library board or city council meeting). - Any robocall that references a local ballot proposal.
I know that some in the library community have raised concerns about personal interactions with patrons. The language is limited to the means of communications as delineated in the new section. Communications that fall outside those limitations, such as one-on-one interactions with patrons, do not appear to be prohibited by that language.
Of note is that none of the prohibitions appear to apply to Internet-based communication. It appears that a public body could continue to use its web site, social networking sites and mass e-mailings (mass mailing is defined in the law as applying to postal mail and faxes) to disseminate information about a local ballot proposal without running afoul of this new language. David Conklin also mentioned billboards. The new section states that it applies to “communication by means of radio, television, mass mailing, or prerecorded telephone message”. Since a billboard doesn’t fall under the definition of any of those means, it would appear those are safe to use too. But any public body seeking to share information about a local ballot proposal should talk to the attorneys first.
My 2 cents – I’m not an attorney!
Andrew Mutch My comments are my opinion and may not reflect those of my employer.
From: michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces@mcls.org] On Behalf Of Pam Withrow Sent: Monday, January 11, 2016 12:41 PM To: michlib-l@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
_______________________________________________ Michlib-l mailing list Michlib-l@mcls.org http://mail2.mcls.org/mailman/listinfo/michlib-l
participants (11)
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arrasm@charlottelibrary.org
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David Conklin
-
Deb Lawson
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Donald Worrell
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Gail Madziar
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James Lenze
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Jeanette Marks
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Melissa Armstrong
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Mutch, Andrew
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Pam Withrow
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Pat Orr