Rep. Kimberly Edwards

Maddy summaryThis resolution urges the U.S. Department of Education to reject a proposed definition of "professional degree" that would exclude many health care education programs from federal student loan eligibility. It specifically targets programs like physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing, social work, and physician assistant studies - classified under CIP Code 51 - which would lose access to loans under the current proposal. The bill requests the Department instead adopt a definition based on required practice credentials, not program length or historical classification, to maintain consistent eligibility. This change aims to prevent worsening health care workforce shortages, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

Maddy summaryHB 5250, titled the "Weight Loss Products and Minors Act," prohibits retailers from selling dietary supplements marketed for weight loss or muscle building and over-the-counter diet pills to anyone under 18. It requires physical store sales to verify age using valid ID (like a driver's license), and online sales to confirm age through approved databases before shipping, with delivery requiring ID proof at time of receipt. The bill directly affects retailers selling these products and minors under 18, creating new requirements for age verification in both physical and virtual transactions. It does not change product safety standards but adds civil penalties for violations, including fines up to $1,000 per violation. The bill is pending in Michigan's Health Policy Committee as of its introduction on November 12, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 5216 requires Michigan correctional facilities to provide prisoners with a medical information release form, an emergency contact form, and explanatory materials upon intake. Prisoners must designate specific individuals to receive their medical information during critical emergencies (defined as hospitalization needs) and provide accurate contact details, with the responsibility to update this information if changes occur. During a critical medical emergency, the department must notify one designated emergency contact and may arrange hospital visits for approved family or clergy if medically appropriate. This bill directly affects prisoners in Michigan correctional facilities and their designated contacts, creating a formal process for sharing medical information during emergencies.

Maddy summaryHB 5225 modifies Michigan's property tax deferment program for summer property taxes, primarily affecting eligible homeowners aged 62+ or with specific disabilities (like blindness or veterans' status) and agricultural property owners. It updates income thresholds for deferment eligibility - current limits cap household income at $60,000 (adjusted annually for inflation after 2026) - and requires agricultural owners to meet gross receipts criteria. The bill mandates local treasurers to publish deferment notices, provide form assistance, and include deferred tax amounts in December tax statements, with payments due by February 15 without penalties. It also clarifies that agricultural deferment eligibility requires prior qualification before forming business entities like LLCs.

Maddy summaryHB 5204 requires health insurers in Michigan to cover prescription drugs for advanced metastatic cancer without first forcing patients to fail other treatments or prove prior drug failures. It directly affects patients diagnosed with advanced metastatic cancer (cancer that has spread beyond its original site) and their health insurance plans. The law prohibits insurers from imposing conditions like "fail first" requirements or demanding proof of previous drug ineffectiveness before approving coverage for these drugs or related symptoms. This applies to all health insurance policies covering prescription drugs for such cancer cases. The bill defines "advanced metastatic cancer" and "associated conditions" (symptoms or side effects worsening without treatment) to clarify coverage requirements.

Maddy summaryHB 5199 lowers the minimum age for insurance coverage of annual breast cancer mammograms in Michigan. It would require health insurers to cover annual mammograms for women starting at a lower age than the current 35-year threshold (while maintaining the existing requirement for annual coverage for women 40 and older). The bill preserves current mandates for insurers to cover breast cancer diagnostic, outpatient treatment, and rehabilitative services without less favorable terms than general physical illness coverage. This applies to all health insurance policies delivered, issued, or renewed in Michigan.

Maddy summaryHB 5205 requires Michigan health insurers to cover specific breast cancer-related services without cost-sharing. It mandates coverage for diagnostic exams, screening mammograms (every 5 years for ages 35-39, annually for 40+), outpatient treatment, and rehabilitation services like reconstructive surgery. The law prohibits deductibles, copays, or dollar limits on these services, aligning coverage terms with general medical care. This directly affects Michigan health insurance policyholders, particularly women needing breast cancer screening or treatment.

Maddy summaryHB 5200 requires health insurance plans in Michigan that cover gynecological care to include annual pap smear screenings for women aged 21 or older, with coverage mandated every three calendar years. This applies to all health insurance policies delivered, issued, or renewed in Michigan that provide gynecological coverage, directly affecting women 21+ and insurers offering such plans. The bill eliminates cost-sharing requirements (like copays, deductibles, or coinsurance) for these screenings, ensuring full coverage without out-of-pocket costs. It amends Michigan’s Insurance Code (MCL 500.3406nn) to standardize this preventive care requirement. The bill is currently pending in the House Committee on Insurance after introduction on November 4, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 5193 is a fiscal year 2026 appropriations bill that allocates state funds to various Michigan departments, agencies, and the judicial and legislative branches. It specifically includes funding for the state's food assistance program benefits, ensuring continued support for eligible residents. The bill creates a comprehensive funding plan covering multiple state operations for the 2025-2026 budget cycle. This procedural bill does not change program rules but provides the necessary financial resources for existing state services.

Maddy summaryHB 5196 requires Michigan correctional facilities to create mandatory mental health discharge plans for incarcerated individuals receiving mental health services or medication before release. These plans must include specific assessments (using tools like the PHQ-9 and GAD-7), identify housing/transportation risks, schedule post-release mental health appointments, ensure medication continuity, and assess Medicaid eligibility. The bill directly affects incarcerated individuals transitioning from correctional facilities to community settings, aiming to support their mental health needs during reentry. It amends existing law (MCL 791.267) and adds new sections (34e, 67c, 67d) focused on structured discharge planning. The bill is currently in committee referral after its October 2025 introduction.