Rep. Kathy Schmaltz

Maddy summaryThis Michigan House resolution designates May 15, 2026, as Arts for Mental Health Awareness Day to highlight the connection between creative arts and mental well-being. The measure acknowledges how participation in the arts can help reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation while supporting recovery from trauma. It specifically recognizes the roles of artists, art therapists, and arts organizations in building community resilience and improving public safety. By officially declaring this date, the legislature aims to encourage public awareness of arts-based health initiatives without mandating any specific actions or funding.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates May 2026 as Boating Safety Month throughout Michigan to highlight the importance of safe recreational boating practices. The resolution encourages all residents and visitors to engage in responsible behaviors, such as wearing life jackets, checking weather conditions, and following navigation rules. It serves as a commemorative measure to raise awareness among the state's large boating community rather than implementing new laws or regulations.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a temporary gas tax holiday in Michigan, setting the motor fuel tax rate to zero cents per gallon starting immediately. The zero rate will remain in effect until either November 1, 2026, or the nationwide average gas price drops below $3.50, whichever happens first. While the holiday is active, the standard tax rates for gasoline and diesel are suspended, and the bill includes specific reporting requirements for suppliers and end users holding fuel inventory.

Maddy summaryThis bill extends the Michigan First-Time Home Buyer Savings Program through December 31, 2026, by amending the existing law that established the program. It allows individuals to open special savings accounts designated for paying qualified costs related to purchasing a single-family home in Michigan. The program permits contributions from people other than the account holder and allows joint ownership if the account holders file a joint tax return. The bill includes a provision stating that it will not take effect unless a related bill, HB 5973, is also passed into law.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Michigan's Clean and Renewable Energy and Energy Waste Reduction Act to update definitions and requirements for renewable energy programs. It directly affects electric and natural gas providers, state agencies, and energy consumers by modifying how clean energy standards are calculated and how costs are recovered from customers. Key changes include redefining clean energy systems to include natural gas plants with carbon capture technology, establishing a wind energy resource zone board, and adjusting rules for customer generation and net metering. The legislation also updates provisions related to energy waste reduction programs and authorizes new residential energy improvement initiatives.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires electric, gas, and steam utilities in Michigan to consider all available energy sources when planning their integrated resource portfolios. It amends existing state laws governing utility rate-setting and planning processes to ensure comprehensive evaluation of different energy options. The legislation also establishes specific timelines for utility rate applications and includes provisions for partial rate relief motions for smaller gas utilities. Additionally, the bill repeals a specific section of the Public Service Commission Act related to stranded costs.

Maddy summaryHB 5074 changes renewal rules for temporary licenses held by mental health professionals (like marriage and family therapists and counselors) who are gaining supervised experience toward full licensure. It replaces the previous 6-year maximum renewal limit with a 3-year cycle, allowing up to three renewals (for a total of 12 years). The bill also adds a new provision (18111a) that lets licensees request a temporary pause ("toll") of their license cycle for up to 1 year due to hardships like health issues or family crises, with a maximum of three such requests per license cycle. This directly affects individuals working under supervision to meet full licensure requirements, providing flexibility for personal challenges while maintaining oversight.

Maddy summaryHB 5281, the "Third-Party Litigation Funding Transparency Act," regulates third-party funding of civil lawsuits by requiring funding companies to register with the state, disclose all terms to clients, and cap fees at 36% annually. It directly affects litigation funding companies and attorneys who use these services, mandating clear disclosure of costs and prohibiting hidden fees. The bill excludes pro bono nonprofits, health insurers, and traditional loans from its rules, focusing specifically on commercial funding arrangements where funders share in lawsuit proceeds. It establishes civil penalties for violations and gives state officials authority to enforce these requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the week of May 10-16, 2026, as Junior Achievement Week throughout the state of Michigan. It directly affects the organization Junior Achievement and the residents of Michigan by formally recognizing the group's efforts to teach financial literacy to students. The resolution encourages all Michiganders to celebrate the organization's work during this specific week and honors the staff who support youth financial education programs.

Maddy summaryThis resolution declares May 10-16, 2026, as Skilled Nursing Care Week in Michigan to honor residents, staff, and volunteers in skilled nursing facilities. The measure aligns with the national observance established by the American Health Care Association and encourages the state to participate in related events under the theme 'Moments in Bloom!' By officially recognizing this week, the bill aims to promote awareness and community engagement with nursing care services without altering any laws or funding.