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In reply to the discussion: Judge says Detroit bankruptcy filing was unconstitutional, must be withdrawn [View all]Morganfleeman
(117 posts)What provision of law prevents a filing? The Michigan State Constitution does not prevent a municipality from filing. All it purports to do is to bar diminution of benefits. The filing in and of itself does not de facto purport to alter benefits, hence I suspect the eligibility hearing will be ruled on in favor of the City, provided they show the negotiated in good faith with creditors prior to filing and met all other requisite filing requirements.
As far as the substance of the benefits issue, that's TBD once past the eligibility hearing, but I suspect the Bankruptcy Court will allow impairment of these obligations whether it be via a restructuring or otherwise. The court in the Stockton case appears to be heading in that direction. And bear in mind the 6th Circuit is one of the most Conservative.