the group exceeded the 161,305 valid signatures needed by more than 40,000.

“This is an important step in the effort to stand up for democracy in Michigan,” said Herb Sanders, director of the coalition. “This report clearly shows that people across the state want the opportunity to vote to repeal the emergency manager dictator law. Now it is up to the State Board of Canvassers to honor the democratic process and let the people vote.”

On Thursday, April 26, 2012 the members of the State Board of Canvassers will meet in Lansing to decide if the petition will be placed on the November general election ballot. They will also have the opportunity to review a memo from the Secretary of the Board of State Canvassers that dismisses the challenges of a republican group seeking to prevent voters from deciding the fate of PA 4.

The report says, “The Board’s authority and duties with regard to proposed constitutional amendments are limited to determining whether the form of the petition substantially complies with the statutory requirements and whether there are sufficient signatures to warrant certification of the proposal.” One challenge to the font size of the heading in the petition is strong evidence of substantial compliance. And the signatures have been validated. The repeal question should move forward.

“We urge the Board of Canvassers to do the right thing and vote for certification of the 200,000 plus signatures,” says Brandon Jessup, Chairman of Michigan Forward and Stand Up for Democracy coalition member. “The truth is in the petitions. We can’t let bogus, partisan attacks usurp the will of the people. We are simply asking them to follow the law.”

Another coalition partner agrees, “People from every county in the state have volunteered their time and talent to collect these signatures,” said Al Garrett, President of Michigan AFSCME Council 25, one of the partners in the coalition. “We hope the board of canvassers will honor their sacrifice, follow the law as reported by their staff and allow the petition to be placed on the ballot.”

For more information go to www.standup4democracy.com or call 1-866-306-5168 to volunteer.