Labor & Employment (Public Safety)

HB 4763 amends Michigan's Public Safety Officers Benefit Act (2004 PA 46) to expand eligibility for benefits by modifying the definition of "public safety officer." It specifically adds county medical examiners, deputy county medical examiners, and medical examiner investigators to the list of qualifying roles, alongside existing categories like law enforcement officers and firefighters. The bill also clarifies that "firefighter" now explicitly includes part-time or volunteer members of fire departments. These changes ensure these additional public safety personnel qualify for benefits such as medical coverage and survivor support under the act. The bill was introduced on August 13, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Insurance.

House Bill 4433, titled the "emergency responder employment protection act," aims to protect employees in Michigan who serve as emergency responders. The bill prohibits employers from discriminating against, disciplining, or firing an employee for being an emergency responder or for being absent from work to respond to an emergency. To be protected, employees must provide notice before their shift, submit a written statement of emergency need within 72 hours, and ensure their absence does not create a workplace safety concern. Employees are also required to notify their employer of their emergency responder status and provide documentation, while employers retain the ability to treat such absences as paid or unpaid time off.