Rep. Carrie Rheingans

Maddy summaryThis House resolution commemorates the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Michigan Indian Day, which was created in 1974 to honor Indigenous peoples in the state. The bill recognizes the historical and ongoing contributions of the twelve federally recognized tribal nations within Michigan and highlights recent efforts to strengthen government-to-government partnerships between the state and these tribes. By adopting this resolution, the legislature formally acknowledges the significance of this annual observance and reaffirms its commitment to cooperation with tribal leadership.

Maddy summaryThis resolution declares September 2024 as Canine Companions Month in Michigan to honor the work of volunteer puppy raisers and the service dogs they train. The bill directly acknowledges the efforts of individuals who raise and socialize dogs to assist people with disabilities, recognizing the bond between humans and these animals. By officially naming the month, the legislation aims to celebrate these contributions and encourage community support for programs that provide essential independence to those in need.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates September 21-28, 2024, as Trails Week in Michigan to highlight the state's extensive trail system. The resolution recognizes the role trails play in recreation, transportation, and the local economy, noting that over 13,400 miles of paths accommodate various activities like hiking, biking, and snowmobiling. As a commemorative measure, the bill does not create new laws or funding but serves to celebrate Michigan's infrastructure and encourage public appreciation of outdoor spaces.

Maddy summaryThis resolution officially designates September 2024 as Deaf Awareness Month throughout Michigan. It aims to highlight the contributions and culture of the state's deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing communities while promoting equal access to services and information. The measure also seeks to educate the public about the unique language, social norms, and history of the deaf community.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates September 16-20, 2024, as Septic Smart Week throughout Michigan to raise awareness about septic system maintenance. The resolution highlights the importance of properly caring for the state's over 1.3 million septic systems to protect public health and local waterways from pollution. By aligning with the federal SepticSmart Program, the measure aims to educate homeowners on preventing costly repairs and environmental harm. As a commemorative resolution, it does not create new laws or funding but serves to promote existing best practices for wastewater infrastructure.

Maddy summaryThis bill officially designates September 15 through October 15, 2024, as Hispanic Heritage Month within the state of Michigan. It directly affects state government operations by establishing a formal period to recognize and celebrate the histories and contributions of Hispanic and Latino residents. The resolution highlights the diverse cultures and achievements of these communities in areas such as education, science, and the workforce. By adopting this declaration, the Michigan House of Representatives acknowledges the significance of this observance without altering any laws or funding.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires healthcare professionals in Michigan to complete implicit bias training before renewing their licenses or registrations. The training must cover topics such as trauma-informed care and reducing stigma related to disabilities and behavioral health conditions. It defines implicit bias as unconscious attitudes that can lead to unequal treatment based on various personal characteristics. The law applies to most licensed individuals but excludes those regulated under a specific part of the public health code.

Maddy summaryHB 5948 amends the Michigan Public Health Code to update the list of patient rights that hospitals and other licensed health facilities must include in their official policies. The bill requires these facilities to post the policy in a public area and provide it to all staff, ensuring that patients are treated according to these established guidelines. Key provisions include clarifying rights related to non-discrimination, medical record access, privacy, informed consent, refusal of treatment, and freedom from abuse, while also specifying conditions under which certain rights like private communication might be limited for medical reasons. This legislation directly affects hospitals and health agencies in Michigan by standardizing how they communicate and enforce patient rights within their facilities.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new special license plate in Michigan to raise money for sickle cell anemia research and treatment. The Secretary of State will work with the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Michigan Chapter, to design the plate, and all proceeds from its sale will go into a dedicated state fund. That fund will be managed by the State Treasurer, who is required to invest the money and distribute the earnings to the association every quarter. Additionally, the bill removes an outdated section from the state's vehicle code that is no longer needed.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to conduct regular inspections of barbershops and barber colleges after their initial opening inspection. Under the new rules, a board member or department representative must be permitted to enter these businesses during regular operating hours to verify compliance with state laws and regulations. The provision directly affects barbershop owners, barber college administrators, and the state agency responsible for overseeing these occupations.