Rep. Carrie Rheingans

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to repeal the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act, which currently regulates the licensing and operation of medical marijuana facilities in Michigan. The repeal would take effect on March 1, 2026, removing the existing legal framework that governs these businesses. However, the bill includes a condition stating that it will only become law if a separate, related bill is also enacted into legislation. If passed, the change would eliminate the specific licensing requirements and oversight procedures established by the 2016 act.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Michigan's mental health code to establish a legal framework for supportive decision-making agreements, allowing individuals with developmental disabilities to enter into contracts where trusted friends, family, or professionals assist them in understanding choices without removing their legal authority. The legislation requires courts to prioritize these less restrictive alternatives over traditional guardianship whenever possible, ensuring that any restrictions on a person's personal liberty or financial management are the minimum necessary for their protection. By defining supportive decision-making as a collaborative process that respects an individual's right to make their own decisions, the bill aims to promote maximum self-reliance and independence while still providing safeguards against neglect, exploitation, and abuse.

Maddy summaryThis bill declares October 2024 as Disability Employment Awareness Month within the state of Michigan. It aims to raise awareness about employment issues affecting people with disabilities and to celebrate their contributions to the workforce. The resolution specifically commends various local organizations, such as Michigan Rehabilitation Services and Disability Network Michigan, for their efforts in improving job access. It encourages all citizens to learn more about these issues and to support individuals with disabilities and their families.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to clarify the Department of Environment Quality's responsibilities regarding water resources and pollution control. It explicitly states that the department must protect and conserve Michigan's surface and underground waters, including the Great Lakes, and manage waste disposal impacts. The legislation also outlines the department's role in assisting flood control districts and complying with federal water pollution laws using appropriated funds. A key provision notes that existing rules created before January 1, 2007, will remain in effect unless officially rescinded, while limiting the creation of new rules under specific sections.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to amend Michigan's penal code to clarify the penalties for delivering specific controlled substances that result in death. It directly affects individuals who provide Schedule 1 or 2 drugs, excluding marijuana, to others in violation of state health laws. The key provision ensures that if such a delivery leads to the death of the recipient or anyone else, the offender faces a felony charge punishable by life imprisonment or a term of years. The legislation includes a condition stating that it will only become effective if a related companion bill is also passed into law.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Michigan's Youth Tobacco Act to strictly prohibit the advertising, display, marketing, and sale of nicotine and tobacco products with characterizing flavors, such as fruity or menthol tastes. It defines characterizing flavors broadly to include any distinguishable taste or aroma other than tobacco, as well as cooling or numbing sensations, and establishes a legal presumption that a product has such a flavor if the manufacturer or seller implies it through text, images, or consumer-facing actions. Businesses that violate these restrictions face escalating civil fines and potential license suspensions or revocations for repeat offenses within a 36-month period. The legislation also creates a new state fund to finance the administration and enforcement of these rules, including compliance checks and staff training.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the Age of Majority Act to clarify that it does not apply to the Youth Nicotine and Tobacco Act, ensuring that the legal age for purchasing tobacco products remains 21 despite the general age of adulthood being 18. By explicitly excluding tobacco regulations from the age of majority provisions, the legislation maintains the existing restriction that individuals under 21 cannot buy tobacco. The change affects the state's legal framework by preventing any conflict between the general definition of an adult and the specific rules governing tobacco sales.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the Michigan Campaign Finance Act by clarifying definitions for political terms and expanding reporting requirements for specific nonprofit groups. It formally defines "501(c)(4) organizations" and "527 organizations" as entities that are controlled, directed, or staffed by candidates, elected officials, their appointees, or their family members. Additionally, the legislation provides new definitions for concepts like "election cycle," "honorarium," and "fund raising event" to ensure consistent application of campaign finance rules. These changes directly affect political candidates, public officials, and the nonprofit organizations that interact with them by establishing clearer boundaries for what must be disclosed to the public.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurance companies in Michigan to cover hearing-related services and devices for individuals under 19 who have been evaluated by an audiologist for hearing loss. The coverage includes audiologist exams, hearing aid fittings, maintenance, repairs, remote microphones, and speech therapy, though insurers may still apply standard cost-sharing rules like deductibles and co-pays. The law specifically excludes plans tied to health savings accounts to ensure compliance with federal tax regulations and will only take effect on January 1, 2026, if a related bill is also passed.

Maddy summaryHB 624 amends the Michigan Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to update definitions within the state's marine safety laws. The bill specifically clarifies terms such as "marihuana" and "THC" by referencing existing state regulations, ensuring consistency with current legal frameworks. Additionally, it refines definitions for boat operators, owners, and peace officers to align with modern enforcement needs. This legislative update affects anyone involved in the operation, regulation, or enforcement of watercraft in Michigan.