Public Act 288 of 2008, Michigan's Legal Defense Fund Act (LDFA), was signed by the Governor on October 6, 2008 with immediate effect.  The LDFA was enacted to regulate and require reports for contributions and expenditures made to assist elected officials in defending themselves against a criminal, civil or administrative action arising directly out of the conduct of the elected official's governmental duties.

The LDFA covers public officials who are elected or appointed to state and local level elective office.  Public officials covered under the LDFA are referred to as "Elected Officials."  The LDFA does not regulate precinct delegates, certain school board members and those elected or appointed to federal offices.