H.J.R. No. 16 Summary

• Proposes constitutional amendment authorizing issuance of up to $1 billion in general obligation state bonds to fund clean water improvements for municipal corporations, counties, townships, and other governmental entities.

• Defines clean water improvements to include water and wastewater treatment systems, water quality research, reducing dredged material disposal in Lake Erie, agricultural best management practices, and soil and water conservation.

• Limits bond issuance to no more than $100 million per fiscal year, with proceeds allocated based on each watershed's proportion of phosphorous loading, with a minimum of 50% allocated to western Lake Erie basin counties.

• Bonds mature within 20 years from issuance and are backed by the full faith and credit and taxing power of the state; bond proceeds and related income are exempt from state taxation.

• Requires voter approval at the November 6, 2018 general election; if approved by majority vote, the constitutional amendment takes effect immediately.