Rep. Samantha Steckloff

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes minor technical corrections to Michigan's Code of Criminal Procedure, specifically updating a cross-reference within the sentencing guidelines section. The legislation does not introduce new laws or alter existing penalties but instead ensures that internal references in the statute accurately reflect recent amendments made to other sections. By updating these citations, the bill aims to maintain consistency and clarity in how sentencing rules are applied by courts. Directly affected parties are legal professionals and judges who rely on the code for sentencing decisions, though the changes are administrative rather than substantive.

Maddy summaryThis bill adds a new section to Michigan's civil procedure laws to allow the state and private citizens to sue firearm industry members for creating a public nuisance through the sale, manufacture, or marketing of firearms and related products. The legislation requires these companies to implement reasonable controls to prevent sales to prohibited individuals, stop product theft, and avoid promoting illegal use, while holding them liable for foreseeable harm caused by their products even if third parties acted unlawfully. If a violation occurs, the attorney general or an injured person can seek court orders to stop the conduct, force the company to pay for cleanup, and recover compensatory and punitive damages along with legal fees. The bill explicitly defines key terms such as "firearm industry member" and "firearm-related product" to include items like 3D printers and accessories that enhance a gun's firing capabilities, ensuring the law covers a broad range of items. Additionally, the statute clarifies that proving intent to harm is not necessary to win a case and does not limit existing legal rights under other state laws.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates new criminal penalties for assaulting or battering public transit operators, including bus drivers, train conductors, and streetcar operators, while they are performing their duties. The law establishes different punishment levels based on the severity of the attack and whether a weapon is used, ranging from misdemeanors with fines up to $2,000 and jail time up to one year for unarmed assaults causing serious injury, to felonies with potential prison sentences up to eight years and fines up to $8,000 for attacks involving dangerous weapons. The legislation also mandates that transit vehicle owners post signs warning passengers that assaulting an operator can lead to prosecution and enhanced penalties, and it allows for increased charges if the offender has a prior conviction under this specific section.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Michigan's corrections code to require the Department of Corrections to create standardized parole guidelines that help the parole board make objective, evidence-based release decisions. The new rules mandate that these guidelines consider specific factors such as the nature of the offense, institutional behavior, prior criminal history, and statistical risk assessments while prohibiting decisions based on race, gender, or other protected characteristics. Additionally, the legislation strictly limits the circumstances under which the parole board can deny parole to individuals who otherwise qualify for release, requiring written justification for any such departures. The bill also establishes a structured review schedule for prisoners denied parole and ensures that those denied based on incomplete programming receive a chance to complete it before being reconsidered.

Maddy summaryHB 6185 amends Michigan's firearm laws to require federally licensed dealers to sell guns with a trigger lock or a secure storage container, unless the buyer provides their own safety device or the firearm is an antique. The bill also mandates that dealers provide free safety brochures and warning notices to purchasers and retain records of these transactions for six years. Additionally, the legislation clarifies that firearm manufacturers and producers are generally immune from civil lawsuits by local governments, except in cases involving specific contract breaches or product defects that cause injury to government employees or property. This provision aims to limit liability for manufacturers while reserving the right for the state attorney general to bring certain legal actions.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act to require local labor unions representing casino employees to register with the state board and submit detailed personal information about their designated officials and staff. The new provisions mandate that unions provide extensive data, including full names, addresses, compensation details, criminal history, and photographs for these individuals, with the option to use existing U.S. Department of Labor reports to satisfy some requirements. Additionally, the legislation establishes a disqualification process that allows the board to bar union officers from negotiating wages or collecting dues if they have convictions for specific crimes such as gambling, theft, fraud, or prostitution, provided there is clear and convincing evidence of a pattern of behavior. Information submitted under this section is exempt from public disclosure under the state's freedom of information act, and the board retains the authority to waive disqualifications or rescind bans based on a finding that justice requires it.

Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Judicial Protection Act, establishes new safety and privacy measures for judges in Michigan and their immediate family members. It allows judges to request that government agencies and private entities stop sharing specific personal details, such as home addresses, phone numbers, and financial information, with the public. To enforce this, the law creates a formal process where judges can submit written requests to remove or prevent the posting of this sensitive data. The protections apply to state, federal, and tribal court judges within the state, as well as their spouses, children, parents, and other relatives living at the same address.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act to update rules governing licenses for medical and recreational marijuana businesses. It directly affects individuals and companies involved in the cultivation, processing, testing, transportation, and sale of marijuana and industrial hemp by modifying existing requirements and adding new sections to the law. The key provisions include changes to how licenses are issued, adjustments to tax structures on commercial facilities, and updates to definitions regarding product safety and the roles of state regulatory agencies. Additionally, the legislation repeals certain previous sections while establishing new ones to ensure the safety of products and the security of licensed premises.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to repeal the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act, which currently regulates the licensing and operation of medical marijuana facilities in Michigan. The repeal would take effect on March 1, 2026, removing the existing legal framework that governs these businesses. However, the bill includes a condition stating that it will only become law if a separate, related bill is also enacted into legislation. If passed, the change would eliminate the specific licensing requirements and oversight procedures established by the 2016 act.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Michigan's insurance laws to clarify which actions by insurance companies do not count as unfair trade practices like discrimination or rebating. It specifically exempts life insurance bonuses, premium adjustments based on group loss experience, and free or discounted value-added services that help with risk management, health, or financial wellness. The law requires that any such services be fair, reasonable in cost, and directly related to the insurance coverage while ensuring customers receive necessary contact information. Additionally, the bill grants the state director authority to create rules that protect consumer data privacy and prevent unfair discrimination in the implementation of these changes.