5 Michigan cities voted to create ‘health action’ boards. Now what?

Michigan voters recently approved measures to establish citizen-led "health action" boards in five cities. Billed as a way to lower healthcare costs and improve policies, the new boards will advise local governments on cost-saving measures. The initiative was backed by nearly $3 million in "dark money" from liberal groups, according to the report.

Voters in Benton Harbor (80%), Lansing (66%), East Lansing (69%), Kalamazoo (69%), and Portage (55%) approved the measures, despite concerns from some local officials about the financial burden. The committees will be made up of seven to eight members who will hold public forums, track policy changes, and prepare a healthcare action plan for city leaders.

While committee members aren't paid, they may be compensated for costs. Some locals fear the initiative could be used to collect voter data and spread negative information about incumbents.