MI SB0165

Creates the African-American Affairs Commission as an independent body within the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, consisting of 15 members appointed by the governor.

Commission members shall have particular interest or expertise in African-American concerns and serve staggered 3-year terms (initial appointments: 5 for 3 years, 5 for 2 years, 5 for 1 year).

Requires the commission to study the status of African-Americans in Michigan, develop unified policies to serve their needs, advise the governor and legislature on state programs, and make recommendations regarding discrimination and equal access to services.

Commission shall hold quarterly meetings and operate under open meetings requirements; members serve without compensation but may receive reimbursement for travel and expenses; the department shall provide administrative support and staff.

Explicitly prohibits the commission from investigating individual discrimination complaints or exercising powers granted to the Civil Rights Commission or Department of Civil Rights under the state constitution or Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act.