Rep. Brad Paquette

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new licensing framework in Michigan for agencies that provide specialized transportation services for individuals experiencing mental health crises. It creates specific definitions for these services, which are designed to move medically stable people who do not require physical or chemical restraints to the nearest facility capable of meeting their needs. The legislation mandates that licensed agencies operate under medical supervision, maintain detailed logs of every trip, and implement strict safety and hygiene protocols for their vehicles and staff. Additionally, the bill requires agencies to submit annual reports to the legislature detailing the number of transports, police interventions, and any investigations into staff misconduct.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new exemption from standard teen driver training for home-schooled students in Michigan who are seeking a learner's permit or intermediate license. Under the law, parents or guardians can administer their own driving curriculum as long as it meets the state's minimum instructional and driving standards. To qualify, the parent must submit a signed certificate to the Secretary of State confirming the student completed the required hours, including specific behind-the-wheel experience and nighttime driving. The bill also establishes a process where the Secretary of State must approve or reject the certificate within 10 business days, and if no response is received or specific defects are not listed, the certificate is automatically considered approved. Additionally, the legislation grants parents immunity from civil liability and administrative penalties if they submit a certificate in good faith, while prohibiting the state from adding extra documentation requirements beyond those specified.

Maddy summaryHB 5358 modifies Michigan's teacher licensing requirements. It requires teachers seeking professional certification to complete a 3-credit course on diagnosing and supporting students with reading disabilities, including specific tools and strategies. The bill also creates streamlined pathways for out-of-state teachers to obtain Michigan certification if they've taught successfully for at least 3 years in their previous state, waiving some exam and reading course requirements. These changes directly affect teachers, school districts, and teacher preparation programs by altering certification standards and reciprocity processes.

Maddy summaryThis bill would amend Michigan's Child Custody Act to establish a presumption that equal or approximately equal parenting time with both parents is in a child's best interest. It requires courts to inform parents about joint custody options and the presumption of equal time during custody disputes, and specifies that "joint custody" means either shared decision-making for important child welfare matters or equal physical time with each parent. The bill also clarifies that joint custody does not affect child support obligations, which remain based on each parent's resources and the child's needs. This applies directly to parents involved in custody cases and judges handling such cases under Michigan law.

Maddy summaryHB 5211 would amend Michigan's Child Custody Act to create a legal presumption that equal or nearly equal parenting time between both parents is in a child's best interest for disputes between parents. This presumption would apply unless a court finds clear and convincing evidence that equal time is not appropriate. The bill does not change the existing "best interests of the child" standard (listed in Section 3), but establishes equal parenting time as the default starting point under Section 5. This applies specifically to custody disputes between parents, not involving agencies or third parties, and does not affect provisions addressing cases involving criminal sexual conduct by a parent.

Maddy summaryHB 5213 requires Michigan's Friend of the Court offices to provide parents with an informational pamphlet explaining the legal presumption of equal or approximately equal parenting time in child custody cases. This pamphlet must detail the presumption as outlined in Michigan's Child Custody Act (MCL 722.26a), alongside information about joint custody options. The bill amends existing law to ensure parents receive this specific information early in domestic relations proceedings. It directly affects parents involved in custody disputes who interact with the Friend of the Court system. The change focuses on informing parents of their rights, not altering custody standards.

Maddy summaryHB 5457 creates a state fund to support hyperbaric oxygen therapy through grants and a temporary pilot program. The Department of Health and Human Services will administer the fund, using it for grants and operating the pilot program. After the pilot concludes, any remaining funds will transfer to the general state fund. The bill requires another bill (HB 5456) to be enacted first.

Maddy summaryHB 5456 establishes a pilot program providing free hyperbaric oxygen therapy to Michigan veterans diagnosed with traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder. The bill creates a state grant program administered by the Department of Health and Human Services, funding providers to deliver treatment at no cost to eligible veterans. Providers must use FDA-cleared chambers meeting specific safety standards and be accredited by organizations like the American College of Hyperbaric Medicine. The program requires the department to implement rules within 12 months and ends after the pilot period concludes.

Maddy summaryHB 4026 exempts firearm safety devices from Michigan's sales and use tax through December 31, 2024, directly affecting gun owners purchasing these devices. The bill defines "firearm safety devices" as trigger locks, secure storage containers (like gun safes or lockboxes requiring keys/combinations), but excludes display cases. Retail sellers must provide written notices to buyers and post visible signage at points of sale explaining the tax exemption. This is a temporary measure with a sunset date, not a permanent policy change.

Maddy summaryHB 4025 extends Michigan's sales tax exemption for firearm safety devices until December 31, 2024. It defines "firearm safety devices" as equipment (like gun safes, lockboxes, or trigger locks) designed to prevent unauthorized access or operation of firearms, but excludes display cabinets. Retail sellers must provide written notices to purchasers and post conspicuous signage at points of sale about the tax exemption. The bill also requires the state to annually compensate the school aid fund for any revenue lost due to this exemption.