Rep. Tom Kuhn

Maddy summaryHB 4185 changes how Michigan's general sales tax revenue is distributed. It directs 15% of the 4% sales tax to cities, villages, and townships through the Glenn Steil Revenue Sharing Act. Sixty percent goes to the state school aid fund (including all 2% tax from aviation fuel sales), while 27.9% of 25% from vehicle/fuel sales funds the transportation system. Additionally, it requires $9-12 million annually from computer software sales to the Michigan health initiative fund.

Maddy summaryHB 4184 increases Michigan's excise tax on aviation fuel from 3.10 cents to 4.00 cents per gallon. It directly affects fuel sellers, airlines, and airport operators by changing how this tax revenue is distributed. The bill modifies Section 203 of the Aeronautics Code to require 35% of the tax revenue to fund the state aeronautics fund and 65% to fund qualified airports. It also retains the 1.5-cent refund for airlines operating interstate flights and the exemption for fuel used in leaded racing fuel production.

Maddy summaryHB 4186 increases Michigan's business income tax rate from 4.95% to 30% for all business activity occurring on or after January 1, 2025. This rate change directly affects businesses operating within Michigan that are subject to the state's business tax, including those previously filing under the corporate income tax act. The bill amends sections 201 and 500 of the Michigan Business Tax Act (2007 PA 36) to implement this rate increase and adjust the tax base calculations for businesses. The change represents a significant policy shift in how Michigan taxes business income, effective in 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 4150 eliminates application evaluation fees for school-related processes under Michigan's Revised School Code. It directly affects individuals applying for educational certifications, programs, or school-related services by removing a requirement to pay fees when their applications are reviewed. The bill amends two specific sections (MCL 380.1531h and 380.1538) to delete the fee mandate, streamlining the application process. This change applies statewide to all relevant school applications governed by the revised code. The bill passed the Michigan House with strong support (83-26) on March 12, 2025, and is now awaiting further legislative action.

Maddy summaryHB 4153 creates a new "local teaching certificate" pathway for educators in Michigan. It amends the Revised School Code to define a "certificated teacher" as including individuals holding either a standard teaching certificate or this new local certificate (under added Section 1531l). The bill directly affects teachers seeking certification through local school districts or authorized entities, rather than the standard state-issued process. Key provisions establish that local certificates must meet state standards but can be issued by districts or approved entities, expanding certification options for schools. This change modifies existing sections (501, 521, 551, etc.) to incorporate the new local certificate type into teacher certification requirements.

Maddy summaryHB 4151 modifies Michigan's teacher certification rules, primarily allowing experienced educators from other states to obtain Michigan teaching licenses without retaking certain exams if they've taught successfully for at least three years in their home state. It maintains existing requirements for new teachers to complete reading competency training (including diagnosing reading disabilities) before advancing to professional certification. The bill also requires the education department to report annually on exam fees and develop standardized tests for teacher certification, while keeping the same reading proficiency standards for Michigan-certified teachers. These changes directly affect teachers seeking certification or additional endorsements in Michigan, especially those transferring from other states or countries.

Maddy summaryHB 4199 allocates $6.7 million from the general fund for public and nonpublic schools to implement mobile panic alert systems, as required by existing law (MCL 380.1308c). The funds are designated as a "work project" for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, with unspent amounts carried forward to 2025-2026. Schools must complete installation of these systems by September 30, 2027. The bill directly affects all schools covered by Michigan's revised school code, providing dedicated funding for emergency alert infrastructure.

Maddy summaryHR 37 is a symbolic resolution passed by the Michigan House of Representatives to officially recognize March 2025 as Women’s History Month within the state. It does not create new laws or policies but formally declares the month to honor women’s historical contributions to Michigan and the nation. The resolution encourages community participation in events celebrating women’s achievements in fields like science, politics, and education. It directly affects Michigan residents by promoting statewide awareness and reflection on women’s roles in society, without imposing any legal requirements or funding changes.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution, not a policy bill. It declares February 14, 2025, as "Frederick Douglass Day" in Michigan to honor the abolitionist's legacy. The resolution commemorates Douglass' life and contributions, including his birth date adoption and work for civil rights, but has no legal effect or impact on state laws or residents. It serves solely as a symbolic recognition.

Maddy summaryHR 20 is a symbolic resolution designating February 2025 as Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month in Michigan. It does not create new programs or change funding but aims to raise public awareness about CTE's role in preparing students for high-demand, high-wage careers like healthcare, engineering, and skilled trades. The resolution acknowledges that over 112,000 Michigan high school students participated in CTE programs during the 2023-2024 school year, with most pursuing postsecondary education or employment. It is directed at state officials and the public to support workforce development awareness.