Michigan law
Municipal Laws in Michigan.
Michigan local government operates under the 1963 Constitution with strong home-rule authority. The Home Rule City Act (MCL § 117.1 et seq.) permits cities to adopt charters and exercise broad local powers. Counties operate under general law unless they adopt optional unified forms. Michigan's Open Meetings Act (OMA) and Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) govern transparency. The Governmental Tort Liability Act (MCL § 691.1401 et seq.) grants broad immunity with enumerated exceptions (motor vehicle, public building, highway, proprietary function).
Last verified: 2026-04-17
State law
Key Michigan Statutes
Authorizes Michigan cities to adopt charters and exercise broad municipal powers. Charter may cover elections, ordinances, taxation (within constitutional limits), and services.
Requires public bodies to hold meetings open to the public with advance notice. Closed sessions permitted only for specific purposes (e.g., litigation strategy, personnel, collective bargaining).
Public records are disclosable upon request subject to statutory exemptions. 5-business-day response required (may be extended 10 days). Fees may be charged for labor and duplication.
Grants broad immunity to governmental agencies engaged in governmental functions. Exceptions: motor vehicle negligence, defective highways, defective public buildings, proprietary functions, and gross negligence of employees.
State law
Official Sources
Not Legal Advice
This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Michigan.
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