Rep. Carrie Rheingans

Maddy summaryHB 4497 amends Michigan's Public Health Code to modify the legal definition of "drug paraphernalia." The bill establishes that "drug paraphernalia" does not include testing products used to determine if a controlled substance contains harmful chemicals, toxic substances, or hazardous compounds that could cause physical harm or death. This specifically includes items like fentanyl testing strips. This change affects individuals who possess or use such testing products, clarifying their legal status under the law.

Maddy summaryHB 4496 amends Michigan's insurance code to require health insurance policies to cover a 12-month supply of prescription contraceptives. It mandates that insurers provide coverage for these contraceptives, which are on the health plan's formulary, to be dispensed all at once unless otherwise requested or instructed by a prescriber. The bill also requires coverage for necessary outpatient services related to prescribing or dispensing contraceptives, if other prescription drugs are covered by the policy. While standard cost-sharing like copayments and deductibles can apply, insurers are prohibited from imposing utilization controls that limit the supply to less than 12 months. This measure applies to health insurance policies beginning December 31, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 4201 amends Michigan's income tax law to exempt certain retirement benefits from state taxation. It specifically adds a deduction for retirement or pension benefits received from Michigan's public retirement systems (like state employee pensions) or federal public retirement systems. This directly affects Michigan residents who receive these types of public-sector retirement benefits by reducing their taxable income. The change modifies Section 30 of Michigan's Income Tax Act (MCL 206.30) to exclude these benefits from taxable income calculations.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 105 proposes to formally censure Representative Josh Schriver of Michigan's Sixty-sixth House District. The resolution asserts that Representative Schriver, in his official capacity, made statements promoting the "great replacement" conspiracy theory. These statements are cited as being inconsistent with his oath of office to uphold the U.S. Constitution and as violations of House rules regarding member conduct and maintaining public confidence. If adopted, the resolution would officially reprimand Representative Schriver for these actions.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 4478 proposes to update Michigan's sentencing guidelines for crimes involving firearms. It aims to amend section 11b of chapter XVII of the Code of Criminal Procedure (MCL 777.11b). This revision would modify the existing framework used by the judicial system to determine penalties for firearm-related offenses, directly affecting individuals charged with such crimes. The bill is tied to House Bill 4479.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 4488 proposes a new refundable working parent tax credit for Michigan taxpayers, effective for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025. The bill would allow a credit of $5,000 for each qualified dependent who is three years of age or less, up to a maximum of three dependents per tax year. To be eligible, a taxpayer must have at least $10,000 in earned income for the tax year. If the credit exceeds the taxpayer's income tax liability, the remaining amount would be refunded.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 4476 designates May 8th of each year as "Victory in Europe Day" in the state. This designation commemorates the victory of the United States and its allies over Nazi Germany during World War II.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 4487 proposes a new state income tax credit for working parents starting in tax year 2025. This "working parent tax credit" would provide $2,500 for each qualified dependent between the ages of 4 and 6. To be eligible, taxpayers must have earned income of at least $10,000, and the credit is limited to a maximum of three dependents per tax year. Any portion of the credit that exceeds a taxpayer's liability would be refunded.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 4480 proposes amendments to Michigan's campaign finance act. This bill would allow candidates for elective office to use campaign funds to pay for specific caregiving expenses. These expenses include the direct care, protection, and supervision of a child or a person with a disability or medical condition, provided these costs directly result from the candidate's campaign activities. The bill defines what constitutes "caregiving expenses," excluding items such as private school tuition or general medical expenses, and limits payments to relatives unless they operate a professional caregiving service at a standard rate.

Maddy summaryHB 4479 proposes new regulations for firearms in Michigan, primarily by requiring valid serial numbers on all firearms and certain components. The bill prohibits the manufacture, sale, transfer, or, after an 18-month grace period, the possession of firearms lacking a serial number, as well as "ghost gun precursors" (parts that can be assembled into unserialized firearms). It also outlines conditions under which a license is required to manufacture firearms, such as manufacturing for profit or using 3D printers. This legislation directly affects individuals and entities involved in the manufacturing, assembling, selling, transferring, importing, or possessing of firearms in the state.