Rep. Erin Byrnes

Maddy summaryHB 4254 prohibits public bodies (like state agencies, universities, or local governments) from using dogs in research or training activities that cause pain or distress. It specifically bans methods that would cause death, injury, fear, trauma, or invasive procedures (such as surgery), with exceptions for veterinary training with owner consent and routine procedures like spaying/neutering. The bill establishes civil fines of $1,000-$5,000 per dog per violation for noncompliance, enforced by county prosecutors or the attorney general. Named "Queenie's Law," it amends Michigan's Public Health Code to add these protections for dogs used in experimental purposes.

Maddy summaryHB 5142 modifies Michigan's licensing requirements for interior designers by amending sections of the Occupational Code (MCL 339.303a and 339.601) and adding a new Article 20A. The bill directly affects interior designers seeking or holding a license in Michigan, changing how they meet qualification standards. Key provisions include updating educational and experience requirements for licensure under the amended sections. This is a procedural bill focused on regulatory updates to the licensing process, not new financial or operational mandates.

Maddy summaryHB 5141 amends Section 2 of Michigan's 1939 Labor Relations Act (MCL 423.2) by removing specific exclusions from the definition of "employee." This change would extend labor protections to workers previously excluded, including domestic workers, agricultural laborers, and certain supervisors. The bill directly affects these workers by ensuring they fall under the act's coverage for organizing, collective bargaining, and dispute resolution. It makes a concrete policy change to the legal definition without altering other provisions of the law.

Maddy summaryHB 5144 amends Michigan's building permit process to allow qualified interior designers to submit applications for residential construction projects. Specifically, it adds interior designers (licensed under Michigan's occupational code) to the list of professionals permitted to file building permit applications, alongside architects and engineers. The bill requires these interior designers to include their license number and expiration date on all residential permit applications. This change directly affects interior designers working on residential buildings, streamlining their ability to initiate construction projects without requiring an architect or engineer's involvement. The amendment updates Section 10 of the 1972 Construction Code Act to reflect this expanded eligibility.

Maddy summaryHB 5143 would establish new fee requirements for interior design license applicants and holders in Michigan. It sets a $175 application processing fee and a $125 annual license fee under the State License Fee Act (MCL 338.2201-338.2277). The bill directly affects individuals seeking or maintaining an interior design license in the state, as defined under Michigan's occupational code. This amendment requires the fees to be paid to the licensing authority for each license cycle. The bill is currently pending in the Regulatory Reform Committee after its introduction on October 28, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 5090 amends Michigan's LiHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) funding rules to require a higher percentage of funds to be used for weatherization assistance. Specifically, it increases the mandatory allocation for weatherization services - such as home insulation and heating system upgrades - from existing levels. This change directly affects low-income households receiving weatherization support through state programs. The bill modifies Section 527a of the Income Tax Act (MCL 206.527a) to implement this funding shift. (Note: The bill is currently in committee referral stage and has not yet passed.)

Maddy summaryThis resolution ceremonially recognizes physical therapy professionals in Michigan by designating October 2025 as Physical Therapy Month. It encourages all Michigan residents to learn about physical therapy benefits, express gratitude to practitioners, and explore how the field supports community health. The bill has no binding policy changes or funding provisions - its purpose is purely symbolic recognition of the profession's role in healthcare. It directly affects Michigan residents and physical therapy practitioners by highlighting their contributions during a designated month.

Maddy summaryHB 5071 provides supplemental state funding for programs addressing violence against women, specifically allocating money to support existing grant programs under Michigan's Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) initiatives. This bill directly affects state agencies and local organizations administering these grants, such as domestic violence shelters and legal aid services. The key mechanism is creating a new appropriation within the state budget for fiscal year 2026 to cover costs not previously funded. It does not change eligibility or program rules but ensures continued funding for these services through a dedicated budget line. The bill is currently under review by the Appropriations Committee after its introduction on September 26, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 5066, titled the "Gun Seller Liability Act," creates strict liability for firearms dealers who sell, deliver, or transfer firearms to individuals prohibited from possessing them under federal or state law, if that firearm causes injury, death, or threat. It directly affects licensed firearms dealers (those holding a federal firearms license who sell guns commercially), requiring them to maintain $1 million in liability insurance covering injuries resulting from firearm sales. Key provisions include holding dealers strictly liable for damages when they know or should know a buyer is prohibited, and mandating the insurance coverage for all such sales. The bill does not alter gun ownership laws but imposes financial responsibility on dealers for specific negligent sales.

Maddy summaryHB 5065 requires retail firearm dealers in Michigan to obtain a state-issued license ($250 fee) and renew it annually ($200 fee). It mandates annual training for dealers and employees on firearm safety, identifying illegal sales, and preventing trafficking, with a 70% passing score needed. The bill applies to businesses selling firearms regularly (not occasional sellers of 8 or fewer firearms yearly) and requires federal licensing, age checks (21+), and criminal background checks for staff. Dealers must display licenses prominently and maintain records for four years. The law aims to regulate retail firearm sales through licensing, training, and record-keeping requirements.