LANSING — Voters will likely have the chance to decide this fall whether to ban political spending in state elections by Michigan’s regulated utilities and large government contractors.

In a 3-1 vote, the bipartisan Board of State Canvassers certified petition signatures filed by Michiganders for Money Out of Politics.

The Legislature will now have 40 days to approve the group’s measure or let the proposal go to the November general election ballot.

The initiative seeks to curb spending by DTE Energy, Consumers Energy and other corporations that have long donated to Michigan candidates from both major political parties.

Backers say the change could reduce the influence of those businesses and encourage more legislators to fight electricity rate hikes. Critics contend it would silence the free speech of employees at such firms.

“Today is proof that a people-powered movement can stand up to some of the most powerful special interests in Michigan,” Christy McGillivray, co-chair of Michiganders for Money Out of Politics, said in a statement.