Rep. Donni Steele

Maddy summaryHB 4664 prohibits blocking state highways during assemblies of individuals, amending Michigan's existing traffic law (MCL 257.676b). It directly affects protesters or assembly participants who obstruct highway traffic, making such obstruction a misdemeanor offense. The key provision adds a specific penalty for blocking highways while engaging in group assemblies, moving beyond general traffic violations. This law clarifies that highway obstruction during protests is a criminal act, not merely a traffic infraction.

Maddy summaryHB 4946 amends Michigan's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to streamline procedures for local governments seeking special watercraft regulations on lakes. It directly affects lakefront property owners and local governments by requiring a 75% petition signature threshold from riparian property owners (representing 75%+ of properties) for private lakes without public access to approve local ordinances. The bill standardizes the Department of Natural Resources' investigation process, mandating evaluation of safety, traffic patterns, historical accidents, and existing regulations before recommending special rules. It also adds an appeal option to the director if the department denies a request for a special rule. These changes aim to clarify local authority while ensuring safety and compatibility of watercraft use.

Maddy summaryHB 4755 strengthens Michigan's consumer protection law by adding Section 3j to prohibit deceptive ticket sales practices. It directly affects ticket sellers (like event organizers and vendors) and protects consumers by banning false claims about ticket availability, hidden fees, and misleading pricing. Key provisions require clear disclosure of all costs upfront, prevent sellers from falsely claiming tickets are "sold out" to pressure purchases, and stop hidden fees from appearing only at checkout. The law applies to all ticket transactions and became effective immediately after its passage on September 9, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 169) designates September 11-17, 2025, as "Patriot Week" in Michigan. It does not create new laws or policies but encourages Michigan residents, schools, and government agencies to honor American history, founding documents, and symbols during this week. The resolution specifically urges participation in activities that promote studying the nation's history and values, including recognition of the September 11, 2001, attacks and key historical figures and events. As a commemorative resolution, it has no direct legal or financial impact on individuals or entities.

Maddy summaryHB 4846 creates a new, faster process for property owners to remove squatters (unlawful occupants) from residential properties without a court hearing. Owners or their agents must submit a verified complaint to the sheriff detailing that the occupant is not a tenant, family member, or owner and has been asked to leave. The sheriff then serves an immediate notice to vacate, removes occupants (possibly arresting them for trespass), and allows owners to change locks with sheriff assistance (at owner cost). Wrongfully removed occupants can sue for triple the fair market rent of the dwelling, plus attorney fees, with courts prioritizing these cases. This procedure does not replace standard eviction processes for lease violations.

Maddy summaryHB 4024 requires public K-12 schools to restrict student access to restrooms and changing areas based on biological sex. This policy directly affects all students in these schools, particularly those whose gender identity does not align with their biological sex. The bill establishes new requirements for schools to enforce this policy, mandating that facility access be determined by biological sex rather than gender identity. It passed the legislature with immediate effect on September 9, 2025, and is now in force.

Maddy summaryHB 4017 modifies workplace safety reporting rules by reducing the maximum penalty for failing to report a death if the death occurs on a family farm. It specifically lowers the penalty amount for employers who don't report fatalities involving certain individuals (like family members) working on their own farm. The bill affects employers in Michigan who operate family farms and are subject to workplace safety laws under MCL 408.1035. This change directly alters the penalty structure for reporting requirements related to farm-related workplace deaths.

Maddy summaryHB 4673 amends Michigan's vehicle code to exempt Gold Star families (immediate family members of military service members killed in action) from the annual state park recreation passport fee. The bill changes section 805 of the Michigan Vehicle Code (MCL 257.805) to remove this fee requirement specifically for Gold Star family members when accessing state parks. This directly affects eligible Gold Star families by eliminating a cost for park access. The provision modifies an existing fee structure rather than creating new requirements or programs.

Maddy summaryHB 4672 amends Michigan's state park and boating access fee rules to exempt Gold Star family members (immediate family of service members killed in action) from paying the recreation passport fee. The bill modifies existing requirements in sections 74116 and 78119 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, which currently mandate that Michigan residents pay an annual fee to enter state parks or designated boating access sites. Under this bill, Gold Star family members would no longer need to pay this fee to access these recreational areas. The exemption applies directly to the fee requirement, not to other park entry rules or vehicle permit systems. The bill is currently pending in committee review.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a constitutional amendment requiring immediate removal from office for any elected public officer convicted of a felony during their term. It would amend Michigan's state constitution to automatically vacate the position upon a felony conviction, bypassing current processes that may allow officers to remain in office pending appeals. The change directly affects elected officials like state legislators, mayors, and county commissioners who face felony convictions while serving. The amendment must be approved by voters at the next general election to take effect.