Rep. Sharon MacDonell

Maddy summaryHB 4278 designates the state of Michigan as the "Purple Heart State" to symbolically honor military service members wounded or killed while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. It does not create new laws or affect any policies, programs, or individuals through concrete action - it is purely a symbolic gesture expressing gratitude. The bill’s sole mechanism is renaming the state for this purpose, as stated in its text: "This state is designated as a purple heart state to express gratitude and respect." The bill was introduced on March 20, 2025, and referred to committee, with no further action taken.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 54) is a ceremonial declaration by the Michigan House of Representatives to commemorate April 4, 2025, as "North Atlantic Treaty Day" in Michigan. It honors the 76th anniversary of the 1949 signing of the North Atlantic Treaty establishing NATO, highlighting NATO's role in collective security and Michigan's military and defense industry connections. The resolution has no legal effect or policy changes - it solely serves to recognize this historical date and symbolically acknowledge Michigan's ties to NATO through its veterans and defense sector. It does not directly affect any individuals, organizations, or government programs.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 46) designates March 22, 2025, as "Michigan Water Day" and recognizes the existing global observance of World Water Day within Michigan. It commemorates Michigan's water heritage, including glaciers' role in shaping the state's freshwater resources and the importance of protecting the Great Lakes. The resolution aims to raise public awareness about preserving clean water and preventing pollution, but it does not create new laws or funding. As a symbolic gesture, it has no direct legal effect on policy or resources.

Maddy summaryHB 4272 would create specific sentencing rules for people convicted of campaign finance violations in Michigan. It amends the state’s criminal procedure code to add a new sentencing guideline for these offenses, requiring judges to follow set sentencing ranges instead of general guidelines. This bill directly affects candidates, political committees, or individuals who break campaign finance laws by changing how judges impose penalties for such violations. The bill is currently in committee referral after being introduced on March 19, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 4269 requires political nonprofits - specifically 527 organizations (like issue advocacy groups) and 501(c)(4) social welfare groups - to publicly disclose detailed financial information. These groups must electronically file annual reports by January 31 and July 31, listing donor names, occupations, addresses (for contributions over $100), and itemized expenditures over $100. Organizations with less than $5,000 in annual activity may request a filing waiver. Failure to comply risks fines (up to $5,000) or dissolution for repeated violations, including intentional underreporting of contributions or expenditures.

Maddy summaryHB 4273 amends Michigan's lobbying law (MCL 4.415) to clarify definitions and registration requirements for lobbyists and legislative staff. It specifically defines "lobbying" as communicating to influence government action using information or data, and sets thresholds: anyone spending over $1,000 annually on lobbying must register, or $250 for lobbying a single official. The bill adds exemptions for certain government employees (like university staff, school board workers, and state department employees) who are not required to register. This is a procedural update to existing law, focusing on precise definitions rather than new policy.

Maddy summaryHB 4270 amends Michigan's Campaign Finance Act to clarify disclosure requirements for certain political nonprofits. It redefines "501(c)(4)" and "527" organizations to include those controlled by state candidates, elected officials, appointed officials, or their family members. These nonprofits would then be required to disclose their funding sources and activities, directly affecting organizations with ties to Michigan's political figures. The bill takes effect January 1, 2027, pending passage of companion legislation (HB 4269).

Maddy summaryHB 4271 modifies Michigan's campaign finance law to treat all independent committees established, financed, maintained, or controlled by a candidate for the Michigan House or Senate as a single committee for contribution limit purposes. This means a candidate cannot circumvent contribution limits by creating multiple committees under their name; all such committees will be counted together. The bill explicitly excludes House and Senate political party caucus committees from this rule. Violations carry penalties including up to 3 years in prison or a $5,000 fine for individuals, or a $10,000 fine for organizations. The bill directly affects candidates running for state legislative office who use independent committees.

Maddy summaryHB 4268 amends Michigan's Campaign Finance Act to give the Secretary of State authority to seek court orders (injunctive relief) to stop campaign finance violations. It adds specific circumstances for waiving late filing fees, such as medical emergencies, natural disasters, or loss of records, and requires the Secretary to provide public notice and comment periods for official interpretations of the law. The bill also establishes clear deadlines for handling complaints about violations, including requirements for signed complaints with factual certifications and structured timelines for responses and rebuttals. These changes aim to improve enforcement transparency and streamline compliance for campaign finance reporters.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 52) symbolically declares March 2025 as National Social Work Month within the state of Michigan. It recognizes the social work profession's contributions to community well-being, crisis response, mental health support, and advocacy - particularly during events like the pandemic. The resolution has no policy or funding mechanisms; it is a formal acknowledgment by the Michigan House of Representatives with no direct impact on laws, regulations, or services. It does not impose new requirements or alter existing programs.