Capitol News

Senator Jim Runestad has introduced new legislation aimed at reforming the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) in Michigan. The proposed bill seeks to address concerns about rules proposed by state departments or agencies becoming law without sufficient legislative review.

“No law should take effect in Michigan without legislative oversight,” said Runestad, a Republican representing White Lake. “By giving every member of JCAR the power to demand a hearing, we are restoring accountability, transparency and balance to the rulemaking process. Too many rules have quietly become law without proper review. That would end with this bill.”

Under current procedures, if JCAR does not act on a proposed ruleset, it automatically takes effect after a designated number of legislative session days, regardless of whether lawmakers have examined it. Runestad explained, “This loophole has allowed major regulations with the force of law to bypass legislative scrutiny, sometimes with serious and costly consequences for citizens and businesses alike. My new legislation would ensure accountability by allowing any JCAR committee member — not just the chair — to call for a hearing on a proposed ruleset. This will ensure important regulatory decisions don’t simply slip through unexamined.”

Runestad also highlighted recent actions by Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, noting that she has used the JCAR process in the past two years to attempt to implement controversial changes and revise election law.

He described Senate Bill 606 as part of a broader initiative to increase legislative oversight over administrative rulemaking and to ensure a more rigorous and democratic process in Michigan.