Ruth Johnson Signs 'Voter Protection' Bills Bringing Districts Under Michigan Election Law

New Bills Offer More 'Voter Protection,' Says Secretary Of State
WARREN, MI - NOVEMBER 6: U.S. citizens go to the polls to vote in the presidential election at the Owen Jax Recreation Center November 6, 2012 in Warren, Michigan. The race between Democratic President Barack Obama and Republican nominee former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney remains tight as Americans head to the polls to cast their ballots. (Photo by Bill Pugliano/Getty Images)
WARREN, MI - NOVEMBER 6: U.S. citizens go to the polls to vote in the presidential election at the Owen Jax Recreation Center November 6, 2012 in Warren, Michigan. The race between Democratic President Barack Obama and Republican nominee former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney remains tight as Americans head to the polls to cast their ballots. (Photo by Bill Pugliano/Getty Images)

(LANSING, Mich.) -- Secretary of State Ruth Johnson signed legislation Monday to bring the state's seven metropolitan districts under Michigan Election Law.

Johnson is serving as governor until later in the day, while Gov. Rick Snyder and Lt. Gov. Brian Calley are out of the state.

Metropolitan districts are combinations of two or more local units of government that operate parks and public utilities, and while many have elected boards, the elections are not covered in Michigan Election Law. The two bills, now known as Public Acts 586 and 587 of 2012 and sponsored by former state Rep. Richard Hammel, remedy this oversight.

"This is about allowing every voter to be a part of the democratic process, to have a voice, a say, regarding the decisions or behavior of those who govern," Johnson said.

Copyright 2013 ABC News Radio

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