Rep. Kathy Schmaltz

Maddy summaryHB 5575 defines specific terms related to harassment of first responders in Michigan law. It adds a new section to the penal code clarifying that "first responder" includes law enforcement officers, corrections officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel. The bill defines "harass" as intentionally causing substantial emotional distress through a course of conduct with no legitimate purpose. This creates a clear legal standard for prosecuting harassment against these public safety workers, directly affecting their protection under state law.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies the penalties for the crime of terrorism in Michigan by updating the language in the state penal code. It directly affects individuals charged with knowingly and premeditated acts of terrorism, ensuring the statute clearly mandates life imprisonment without parole if the act results in death. The legislation also maintains existing provisions that allow for a fine of up to $100,000 or a prison term of at least 25 years for other terrorism-related convictions. These changes aim to clarify the legal consequences for those convicted of terrorism under current laws.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Michigan's guardianship and conservatorship laws to strengthen protections for vulnerable individuals under court supervision. It primarily affects professional guardians and conservators, requiring them to file financial bonds or restricted accounts, disclose any outside compensation received, and maintain regular visitation schedules with the individuals they serve. The legislation also mandates that guardians consult with legally incapacitated individuals before making major decisions and clarifies the specific powers guardians have regarding medical consent, property management, and care arrangements. Additionally, it authorizes certain nonbanking corporations to serve as professional fiduciaries while limiting their authority to the specific cases in which they are appointed.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Michigan laws governing the powers and duties of conservators, who manage the financial affairs of individuals unable to do so themselves. It primarily affects courts, conservators, and the families of protected individuals by clarifying when conservators must post a financial bond and expanding their authority to manage estate assets. Under the new provisions, courts must require a bond unless specific exceptions apply, such as when the estate lacks cash or the conservator has already been granted trust powers. The bill also updates the list of actions conservators can take without court approval, including managing businesses, investing assets, entering leases, and employing professional advisors, while maintaining oversight requirements to protect the interests of the protected individual.

Maddy summaryHB 5044 requires Michigan school districts and public charter schools to create policies by July 2026 allowing students with medically necessary treatment prescribed by healthcare providers to receive that care during school hours. The policy must include parent notices about federal disability rights (under Section 504 and the ADA), establish a 30-day meeting process for treatment requests, and specify when schools can deny requests (only if it causes a "fundamental alteration" or "undue burden"). Schools must also report annual data on treatment requests and denials to the state education department. This directly affects students with medical or mental health conditions requiring in-school care and school staff responsible for implementing the policy.

Maddy summaryThis resolution officially designates June 2026 as Dairy Month in Michigan to recognize the state's significant dairy industry. The measure highlights the sector's economic contributions, including its role in food production, job creation, and public health through nutritious dairy products. By adopting this symbolic declaration, the legislature aims to celebrate the achievements of local dairy farmers and processors while promoting awareness of the nutritional benefits of dairy consumption.

Maddy summaryHB 4865 requires baby food manufacturers in Michigan to test each product lot for heavy metals (arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury) starting January 1, 2026. Manufacturers must use accredited labs to test samples to a minimum sensitivity of 6 micrograms per kilogram and report results to the state. Starting January 1, 2027, manufacturers must post test results online via webpages and include QR codes on product labels linking to this information. Products exceeding safety limits must be recalled or disposed of, directly affecting baby food producers and increasing transparency for consumers.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes renaming a specific section of Interstate 75 in Wayne County to honor Motor Carrier Officer Daniel M. Kerstetter. The designated stretch of road runs from Northline Road northward to London Avenue. By amending the Michigan Memorial Highway Act, the legislation formally establishes this new name for the roadway. The change directly affects the state's transportation records and signage along that portion of the highway.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new Provider Advisory Council to review contracts between the state department and child care organizations. The council will consist of 7 to 11 members representing different geographic regions of Michigan, with at least one nonvoting member from a professional membership association. Key provisions require the department to submit proposed contracts to the council for review at least 120 days before signing, allowing the council to issue recommendations on rates, services, and other terms. The bill also includes ethics requirements for council members, including conflict of interest disclosures and recusal rules, with penalties for violations.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires school district boards in Michigan to allow homeschooled and nonpublic school students to join extracurricular activities like sports and clubs if they live within the district. To participate, these students must meet the same academic, conduct, and competitive selection standards as public school students without being forced to enroll in public school classes. The law also prohibits schools from denying participation based on capacity limits unless those limits apply equally to all students and are based on objective criteria. Additionally, districts must report annually on how many nonpublic students apply, are approved, or are denied participation, and they face potential fines for violating these rules.