Rep. Brad Paquette

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 4337 proposes to amend Michigan's code of criminal procedure. It specifically modifies section 16t of chapter XVII (MCL 777.16t), which pertains to sentencing guidelines. The bill aims to establish new sentencing guidelines for individuals convicted of bringing in and harboring certain undocumented persons. This change would directly affect those charged with this specific crime and the courts responsible for their sentencing.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 64 declares April 19, 2025, as Patriots' Day in the state of Michigan. This resolution commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, which marked the beginning of the American War for Independence.

Maddy summaryHB 4305 would ban the use of SNAP benefits (food assistance) to purchase soda, directly affecting Michigan SNAP recipients. The bill requires the state to seek a federal waiver from the USDA to exclude soda from eligible foods under SNAP rules, and if approved, the state would prohibit soda purchases with these benefits. "Soda" is defined as nonalcoholic sweetened beverages, excluding milk, milk substitutes, and juices containing over 50% juice by volume. The bill does not change current SNAP rules but proposes a policy shift pending federal approval.

Maddy summaryHB 4304 prohibits intentionally injecting, releasing, or dispersing chemicals or devices into the atmosphere to alter weather patterns or sunlight intensity. This directly affects individuals or entities conducting weather modification activities, such as cloud seeding or experimental atmospheric interventions. The bill adds this specific prohibition to Michigan's environmental protection law, making such actions illegal under state statute without requiring additional regulatory steps. It focuses on preventing intentional atmospheric interference for weather-related purposes.

Maddy summaryHB 4272 would create specific sentencing rules for people convicted of campaign finance violations in Michigan. It amends the state’s criminal procedure code to add a new sentencing guideline for these offenses, requiring judges to follow set sentencing ranges instead of general guidelines. This bill directly affects candidates, political committees, or individuals who break campaign finance laws by changing how judges impose penalties for such violations. The bill is currently in committee referral after being introduced on March 19, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 4269 requires political nonprofits - specifically 527 organizations (like issue advocacy groups) and 501(c)(4) social welfare groups - to publicly disclose detailed financial information. These groups must electronically file annual reports by January 31 and July 31, listing donor names, occupations, addresses (for contributions over $100), and itemized expenditures over $100. Organizations with less than $5,000 in annual activity may request a filing waiver. Failure to comply risks fines (up to $5,000) or dissolution for repeated violations, including intentional underreporting of contributions or expenditures.

Maddy summaryHB 4273 amends Michigan's lobbying law (MCL 4.415) to clarify definitions and registration requirements for lobbyists and legislative staff. It specifically defines "lobbying" as communicating to influence government action using information or data, and sets thresholds: anyone spending over $1,000 annually on lobbying must register, or $250 for lobbying a single official. The bill adds exemptions for certain government employees (like university staff, school board workers, and state department employees) who are not required to register. This is a procedural update to existing law, focusing on precise definitions rather than new policy.

Maddy summaryHB 4270 amends Michigan's Campaign Finance Act to clarify disclosure requirements for certain political nonprofits. It redefines "501(c)(4)" and "527" organizations to include those controlled by state candidates, elected officials, appointed officials, or their family members. These nonprofits would then be required to disclose their funding sources and activities, directly affecting organizations with ties to Michigan's political figures. The bill takes effect January 1, 2027, pending passage of companion legislation (HB 4269).

Maddy summaryHB 4271 modifies Michigan's campaign finance law to treat all independent committees established, financed, maintained, or controlled by a candidate for the Michigan House or Senate as a single committee for contribution limit purposes. This means a candidate cannot circumvent contribution limits by creating multiple committees under their name; all such committees will be counted together. The bill explicitly excludes House and Senate political party caucus committees from this rule. Violations carry penalties including up to 3 years in prison or a $5,000 fine for individuals, or a $10,000 fine for organizations. The bill directly affects candidates running for state legislative office who use independent committees.

Maddy summaryHB 4213 eliminates restrictions on concealed carry in specific locations by removing existing prohibitions from Michigan's concealed carry law. The bill removes restrictions that previously barred licensed concealed pistol permit holders from carrying in places like schools (with a parent drop-off/pick-up exception), child care centers, sports arenas, bars/taverns, places of worship, large entertainment venues (2,500+ seats), hospitals, and college dorms/classrooms. Licensed permit holders would no longer be prohibited from carrying concealed weapons in these locations under this amendment. The bill does not change security requirements for venues that choose to prohibit concealed carry (e.g., metal detectors).