Rep. Greg Markkanen

Maddy summaryHB 5323 authorizes Michigan state agencies to install technology that detects or blocks unauthorized drones near state-owned buildings and critical infrastructure like power plants or water facilities. The bill allows for two key mechanisms: (1) devices to detect drones flying overhead, and (2) systems to prevent drones from entering restricted airspace. It also requires coordination with the state transportation department to include these locations in a statewide geofencing database. The law explicitly states it does not override federal drone regulations.

Maddy summaryHB 5332 requires Michigan public agencies (like police departments and fire departments) to register all drones they operate, including details about operators, aircraft identification, and intended use. It mandates an annual report to the legislature on drone usage and prohibits public agencies from purchasing or using drones from specific foreign countries or entities listed by federal authorities (such as the U.S. Defense Department's restricted list). Agencies may only buy such drones if they guarantee all collected data stays stored exclusively within the U.S. and complies with federal laws. The bill does not apply to small drones used in compliance with existing safety rules.

Maddy summaryHB 5326 would allow Michigan police officers to intercept, disable, or destroy drones flying in violation of federal aviation rules or posing public safety risks. It directly affects drone operators whose flights breach FAA guidelines and provides officers immunity from liability for damage to the drones. The bill’s key provision requires that federal law first be amended to permit such actions before the state law takes effect. This bill is currently in committee review and does not change existing federal drone regulations.

Maddy summaryHB 5308 requires Michigan watercraft owners to purchase an annual $35 "Great Lakes protection" decal. Revenue from these decals funds invasive species prevention and remediation efforts under Section 80124b. The bill mandates that the state agency discontinue sales if fewer than 2,000 decals are sold by September 2006, then fewer than 500 annually after that. It directly affects recreational boat owners in Michigan who must buy the decal to legally operate watercraft. The decal design is specified but placement rules allow flexibility for law enforcement.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates a specific segment of Highway M-28 in Baraga County as the "Sgt. Fabian T. Godell Memorial Highway." The legislation amends the state's memorial highway act to officially name the road in honor of Sergeant Fabian T. Godell. Additionally, it authorizes signs along this stretch to display the text "Silver Star" and "World War II" to recognize his military service. The change directly affects the naming of the roadway and the signage displayed to the public in that area.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the Michigan National Guard to pay all servicemembers their compensation through direct deposit or electronic transfer starting with their first eligible pay period. The legislation amends existing state wage payment laws to mandate this specific payment method for National Guard members, who must provide the necessary banking information to enable the transfers. While the bill maintains existing protections for other employees regarding payroll debit cards and direct deposit consent, it creates a special provision that applies exclusively to the National Guard without requiring individual opt-in consent from each servicemember. This change ensures consistent electronic payment processing for military compensation while preserving the broader legal framework governing wage payments for other Michigan employees.

Maddy summaryHB 5302 creates a $5 million annual competitive grant program for recovery community organizations in Michigan to expand services for people seeking long-term recovery from substance use disorders. The bill requires the state to fund at least 19 certified local recovery groups and qualifying nonprofit associations, with each grant capped at $250,000 (or 50% of an organization’s operating budget). Priority goes to groups offering specific services like recovery navigation, workplace education, and wellness activities (e.g., support groups, nutrition programs). Grantees must report annually on fund usage, participant metrics, and budget details starting in 2027, with the program set to expire on October 1, 2031.

Maddy summaryHB 4303 designates May of each year as "Chaldean American Month" in Michigan to recognize the contributions of Chaldean, Assyrian, and Syriac Americans to the state and nation. The bill is purely symbolic, creating no new policies, funding, or obligations. It directly affects the Chaldean American community by formally honoring their cultural and historical contributions through this annual designation. The bill has advanced through committee stages but remains pending final legislative approval.

Maddy summaryHB 5843 is a supplemental appropriations bill that allocates state funds for various departments and agencies in Michigan for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2026. The legislation specifically includes funding to support a state veterans cemetery located in the Upper Peninsula. This bill works in conjunction with HB 5844 to establish the necessary financial resources for these operations.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the Michigan veterans affairs agency to establish a state veterans cemetery in the Upper Peninsula. It requires the agency to conduct a feasibility study to identify a suitable location and ensure the site qualifies for federal funding grants. The legislation allows the agency to purchase or designate state-owned land for the cemetery and creates a dedicated fund to manage money for the project's design, land preparation, and ongoing operation. Additionally, the bill cannot take effect unless it is passed together with a companion bill, HB 5843.