MI Senate opposes indefinite detentions

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - The Michigan Senate has voted unanimously to bar state and local law enforcement officials from helping the federal government indefinitely detain American citizens without charges.

The bill is a response to a provision in the National Defense Authorization Act that allows for the indefinite detention of some terrorism suspects. Civil liberties activists say the law is unconstitutional, though others say it in no way allows for arbitrary arrests.

The state legislation also would prohibit active duty Michigan National Guard members from helping to detain citizens indefinitely. The measure was sent to the House for consideration.

The bill's ultimate effect is unclear because federal law usually trumps state law, and there's no indication state and local officials help with federal terror investigations.