HB 4591 allows Michigan to join a multi-state agreement (the "counseling compact") for licensed professional counselors. This compact enables Michigan-licensed counselors to practice in other participating states without obtaining separate licenses, while other states recognize Michigan licenses under uniform requirements. The agreement requires participating states to share disciplinary and licensure information to protect public safety, supports military spouses relocating with active duty service members, and facilitates telehealth services to improve access to counseling. It directly affects licensed professional counselors seeking to practice across state lines and expands access for residents in participating states.
HB 4509 creates a licensure compact for audiologists and speech-language pathologists in Michigan, allowing professionals licensed in participating states to practice across state lines without obtaining separate Michigan licenses. This directly affects audiologists and speech-language pathologists seeking to work in multiple states, particularly those in states that have joined the compact. The bill amends Michigan law to establish reciprocal licensing agreements, adding new provisions (sections 16187, 16804, and 17603a) to facilitate this process. It does not change patient care standards but streamlines professional mobility for these healthcare providers. The bill passed unanimously in the Michigan House with immediate effect on October 30, 2025.
HB 4484 amends Michigan's Social Welfare Act to allow licensed speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to seek reimbursement for audiological rehabilitation and speech-language therapy services, regardless of whether they hold a certificate of clinical competence. This change directly affects SLPs practicing in Michigan who previously faced potential barriers to reimbursement under existing department rules. The bill removes a prior requirement for the clinical certificate, ensuring reimbursement eligibility solely based on state licensure. It applies to all coverage policies under the Social Welfare Act (MCL 400.1-400.119b), streamlining access to payment for these healthcare services.
HB 4107 requires Michigan schools to include specific health education content for students in grades 7-12. It mandates instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated external defibrillator (AED) use, and first aid response kits (including tourniquets and bleeding control supplies) as part of the health curriculum. Schools may use trained personnel like Red Cross instructors, EMTs, or properly trained teachers to deliver this instruction, with hands-on practice encouraged but not required for all students. The bill exempts 100% online schools from requiring hands-on CPR practice.
HB 4219 amends Michigan's mental health law (MCL 330.1416) to strengthen informed consent requirements for patients receiving mental health treatment. It directly affects individuals seeking mental health services by mandating that providers clearly explain treatment options, risks, and alternatives before obtaining consent. The bill requires providers to document this discussion and ensure patients understand their rights. Passed overwhelmingly (103-2) with immediate effect, the law updates existing patient rights protections under the 1974 Mental Health Code.
HB 4218 amends Michigan's Mental Health Code (1974 PA 258) to update key definitions related to mental health services and recipient rights. It clarifies terms like "serious emotional disturbance" for minors and "serious mental illness" for adults, specifying when conditions such as substance use disorders or developmental disorders are included under these categories. The bill also refines the definition of the "State recipient rights advisory committee" to better define its role in advising the department on recipient rights. This is a technical clarification of existing code language, not a new policy change.
HB 4417 requires Michigan's state department to provide opioid antagonists (like naloxone) at no cost to life support agencies - such as ambulance services - when requested. This directly affects emergency medical services (EMS) providers operating life support vehicles, ensuring these vehicles are equipped to respond to opioid overdoses. The bill amends Michigan's Public Health Code to mandate this free distribution, streamlining access for first responders. It focuses on concrete policy change: making overdose-reversal medications readily available in emergency vehicles without cost to EMS agencies.
HB 4246 enacts Michigan's participation in the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing nurses licensed in Michigan to practice in other participating states without obtaining separate licenses. The compact establishes mutual recognition of nursing licenses across states, facilitating easier interstate practice for registered and licensed practical nurses. It includes mechanisms for sharing information about nurse licensure and disciplinary actions to maintain public safety and consistent practice standards. This bill directly affects nurses seeking to work across state lines and the Michigan Board of Nursing, which will implement the compact's requirements.
HB 4464 requires Michigan health insurers to provide dependent coverage until age 26 without discrimination based on a child's birth status, tax filing, or residence. It mandates coverage for newborns from birth (including congenital defects) and prohibits lifetime or annual dollar limits on essential health benefits like emergency care, hospitalization, and maternity services. The bill also requires insurers to cover specific preventive services - such as evidence-based screenings and immunizations recommended by federal guidelines - without cost-sharing for eligible patients. These requirements apply to most individual and small group health insurance plans in Michigan, excluding grandfathered plans, retiree coverage, and short-term policies.
HB 4380 updates Michigan's physical therapy licensing rules to allow therapists to practice across state lines through the Physical Therapy Licensure Compact. The bill amends existing licensing statutes and adds new provisions to align Michigan with this multi-state agreement, directly affecting licensed physical therapists seeking to work in participating states. Key changes include modifying requirements to accept licenses from other compact states, reducing barriers for therapists moving between jurisdictions. This creates a streamlined process for therapists to practice in multiple states without obtaining separate licenses in each. The bill passed the Michigan House unanimously (103-2) in May 2025 and is now before the Health Policy Committee.
