Rep. Dave Prestin

Maddy summaryHB 5234 modifies Michigan's vehicle code to change how law enforcement agencies can use fees collected from salvage vehicle inspections. Specifically, it updates Section 217c of the Michigan Vehicle Code (MCL 257.217c) to expand allowable uses for these fee revenues. The bill directly affects local law enforcement agencies that collect these inspection fees, allowing them to allocate funds toward equipment, training, or other operational needs previously restricted. This is a procedural funding adjustment with no new tax or mandate.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Michigan's Clean and Renewable Energy and Energy Waste Reduction Act to update the legal definitions of renewable energy resources and systems. It expands the definition of renewable energy resources to include specific biomass sources like sustainably managed wood and certain waste-derived materials, while explicitly excluding natural gas, petroleum, and nuclear power. The legislation also clarifies which facilities qualify as renewable energy systems, such as landfill gas recovery plants and methane digesters, while excluding new hydroelectric dams and incinerators from the definition. These changes aim to provide clearer guidance for compliance with the state's renewable energy standards and credit programs.

Maddy summaryThis bill declares March 2026 as Agriculture Month in Michigan to recognize the state's significant food and agriculture industry. The resolution highlights the sector's economic contributions, including over 805,000 jobs and billions in annual revenue from various crops like cherries, apples, and soybeans. It serves as a commemorative measure with no operational changes, encouraging citizens to celebrate the importance of agriculture to Michigan's economy.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates a specific section of M-553 in Marquette County as the "Jack Rantanen Memorial Highway" to honor an individual. The legislation directly affects the Michigan Department of Transportation and local residents by officially naming the road segment from Division Street in Marquette to County Road 480 in Sands Township. The key provision amends the Michigan Memorial Highway Act to add a new section establishing this permanent memorial designation. This change is primarily symbolic and does not alter traffic rules, funding, or road maintenance responsibilities.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Michigan's vehicle code to require drivers to pass county road worker vehicles with the same caution and speed restrictions as they must when passing stationary emergency vehicles. It defines road work vehicles as those used for construction, maintenance, or utility work displaying flashing red or amber lights, and updates the legal definitions of authorized emergency vehicles to include these road service vehicles. Drivers must reduce their speed by at least 10 miles per hour and move at least one lane or two vehicle widths away from the stationary vehicle when possible, with penalties including civil fines for violations. The changes apply to all public roadways and align the treatment of road workers with that of police, firefighters, and other emergency responders.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates new lifetime hunting and fishing licenses specifically for disabled veterans in Michigan, effective July 1, 2027. The licenses are priced based on the veteran's disability rating, ranging from free for those rated 100% disabled to $100 for those rated 30% or more but less than 50% disabled. These lifetime licenses include all standard hunting and fishing privileges, such as deer, waterfowl, turkey, and fishing rights, and remain valid even if the veteran moves out of state. The bill also updates definitions for disabled veterans and resident status within the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act.

Maddy summaryHB 5450 amends Michigan's Food Law to prohibit local governments (counties, cities, villages, or townships) from charging fees, taxes, or assessments for the operation of mobile food establishments, such as food trucks. This directly affects food truck operators by eliminating an additional cost imposed by local jurisdictions. The bill achieves this by modifying Section 3113 of the Food Law to explicitly ban such fees, while still requiring compliance with state-mandated fire inspections and licensing under existing regulations.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new corporate income tax credit for Michigan employers who train apprentices and employ students in career and technical education programs. Starting in 2026, eligible businesses can receive tax credits covering up to 50% of certain training expenses or $2,000 per apprentice or student, with small businesses under 50 employees receiving an additional 10% bonus credit. The credit applies to qualified expenses such as wages, benefits, and classroom instruction costs, and any unused portion can be refunded to the taxpayer. Additionally, the bill requires the state Department of Labor to annually report on program participation, employment outcomes, and the fiscal impact of the credits to legislative committees.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to notify local officials and neighboring property owners before clear-cutting more than 5 acres of forest for non-forestry purposes. The department must provide written notice detailing the site location, intended use, and clear-cutting costs at least 10 business days before proceeding, unless an emergency exists. Additionally, the bill mandates public notice on the department's website and in a local newspaper, allowing at least 5 days for public comment, followed by a written summary of responses posted online. These provisions apply specifically to state forest lands and aim to increase transparency and community involvement in deforestation projects.

Maddy summaryHB 5210 allows commercial fishing license holders to list multiple vessels on a single license instead of requiring separate licenses for each boat. Licensees can add or remove vessels anytime by providing written notice to the department. The bill also clarifies rules for transferring licenses when boats are sold, damaged, or lost, including fee adjustments for larger vessels or non-resident transfers. All vessels listed under one license must operate within 50 miles of the originally designated port.