Rep. Kathy Schmaltz

Maddy summaryThis resolution declares January 26-February 1, 2025, as Catholic Schools Week in Michigan. It is a symbolic gesture by the Michigan House of Representatives recognizing Catholic schools' role in the state. The resolution cites their educational impact (51,497 students across 214 schools), cost savings to taxpayers ($494 million annually), and community contributions, but does not create new laws or alter funding. As a procedural resolution, it has no binding effect beyond the official recognition.

Maddy summaryHB 4006 amends Michigan's zoning law to prevent local governments from banning weddings or similar events in barns or farm facilities located in agricultural zones. It directly affects farmers and rural property owners who host commercial events, allowing them to use agricultural land for this purpose without zoning restrictions. The bill permits reasonable regulations like noise limits, traffic management, or operating hours but prohibits outright bans on the event use. This change would apply to existing zoning ordinances under Michigan's zoning enabling act (MCL 125.3101-125.3702). The bill is currently in committee review after its January 2025 introduction.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies the rules for the Michigan Housing Development Authority, allowing it to buy back its own debt notes and bonds to cancel them. Under the new provisions, the authority can purchase these debts at their standard redemption price plus interest, or at a higher price if it determines that doing so serves the organization's best interests. This change gives the agency more flexibility to manage its financial obligations without needing to wait for debts to reach their original maturity dates. The update applies to the authority's existing funds and becomes effective on April 2, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies the Michigan State Housing Development Authority by removing the requirement for a resident member to have voting rights on the board. The resident member, who must be an adult living in federally assisted housing, can now attend meetings and provide input but cannot vote on any matters. This change ensures that while the perspective of a housing recipient is represented on the authority, all official decisions are made by the appointed officials. The amendment applies to the authority's governance structure and does not alter the funding or operational powers of the agency.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Michigan's state housing development authority to update rules regarding the sale prices of affordable housing units. It allows the authority to make loans for projects where the average purchase price is capped at a specific limit relative to the average purchase price of similar units in the area. The changes primarily affect nonprofit housing corporations, cooperatives, and developers who build or rehabilitate homes for low- and moderate-income individuals. By adjusting these pricing constraints, the legislation aims to provide more flexible financing options while maintaining affordability standards for residents.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new Rare Disease Advisory Council within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to advise the state on research, diagnosis, and treatment for rare diseases. The council will be composed of a diverse group of members, including medical professionals, patient advocates, industry representatives, and individuals with rare diseases, who will serve four-year terms. Once established, the council is authorized to hold public hearings, consult with experts, and apply for grants to develop recommendations for improving care and support for those affected by conditions that impact fewer than 200,000 people in the United States.

Maddy summaryThis bill enacts the Physical Therapy Licensure Compact in Michigan, allowing licensed physical therapists and assistants to practice across state lines with a single license. Under the new rules, a provider can work in any other member state where their patient is located without needing separate licenses for each location. The compact establishes a shared data system to track licensure and disciplinary actions among participating states while preserving each state's authority to protect public health. Additionally, the legislation specifically aims to support military spouses by facilitating easier practice mobility when they relocate.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Michigan's recreational trespassing law to clarify when property owners can legally restrict access for activities like hiking, hunting, and trapping. It establishes that entry is prohibited on fenced, enclosed, or posted properties, while maintaining that farm properties and connected wooded areas are always restricted regardless of signage. The legislation also preserves specific exceptions, such as allowing fishermen to cross banks to avoid hazards and permitting individuals to enter to retrieve a lost hunting dog. By defining these rules and the requirements for posting signs, the bill aims to provide clearer guidance on the responsibilities of property owners and the rights of recreational users.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Michigan's probate laws to improve how courts handle guardianships and conservatorships for individuals who cannot manage their own affairs. It introduces a new process allowing judges to appoint a temporary guardian for up to six months when immediate action is needed to protect a person's welfare, even if formal notice to all interested parties has not yet been given. The legislation also clarifies the procedures for removing or replacing conservators and allows interested parties to request specific court orders, such as requiring financial reports or adjusting bond amounts. These changes are designed to streamline oversight and ensure quicker responses to situations where a guardian or conservator is not effectively performing their duties.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Michigan's legal process for appointing guardians or conservators for individuals who may be incapacitated. It requires courts to inform petitioners about less restrictive alternatives before filing and mandates the appointment of a legal representative for the individual unless they already have one. The legislation also establishes stricter rules for medical evaluations, ensuring that detailed reports on an individual's condition and capacity are shared with relevant parties while keeping the full report confidential from the public record. Additionally, the bill guarantees the right to an independent medical evaluation and outlines specific content requirements for professional assessments.