Rep. Denise Mentzer

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 4503 modifies Michigan's corporate income tax credit program for state historic preservation. It allows qualified taxpayers to claim a credit for expenses incurred rehabilitating historic resources, with credit amounts varying between 25% and 30% of eligible costs depending on the type of resource. The bill also streamlines the application process by setting new approval timelines for the state historic preservation office. Significantly, it increases the total annual cap on these credits from $5 million to $100 million starting January 1, 2026, with specific allocations for different categories of historic properties.

Maddy summaryHB 4494 revises the Michigan penal code concerning redemption game machines. The bill modifies the conditions under which these games are exempt from general gaming prohibitions, allowing for games determined by a combination of skill and chance. It significantly increases the maximum prize value for redemption games, permitting awards up to $500, which can include stored value cards redeemable at retailers. The legislation also introduces new regulations, such as limiting establishments to eight machines that award stored value cards and establishing penalties for tampering with certified game software. These changes primarily affect businesses that offer redemption games and their players.

Maddy summaryHB 4495 proposes to amend Michigan's code of criminal procedure, specifically section 16o of chapter XVII (MCL 777.16o). The bill aims to revise the penal code to allow for redemption games. This change directly affects businesses that operate redemption games and individuals who participate in them by clarifying their legal status under criminal 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 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 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 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.

Maddy summaryHB 4071 clarifies what insurance practices are not considered "unfair trade practices" under Michigan law. It specifically permits insurers to offer free or discounted value-added services (like loss mitigation tools, risk education, or financial wellness programs) to customers, provided these services relate to insurance coverage, reduce claim costs, and are reasonably priced compared to premiums. The bill directly affects life and property/casualty insurers and their policyholders, customers, or potential applicants. Key provisions require services to be relevant to insurance, cost-effective, and include clear customer support contact information. This amendment does not create new insurance requirements but clarifies permissible marketing practices.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 4435 proposes to repeal Section 17 of the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Act. This section currently prohibits the state from creating new rules related to workplace ergonomics. If enacted, this bill would remove that prohibition, allowing the state to develop and implement health and safety standards concerning ergonomics in various workplaces. This change could affect Michigan employers and their employees by potentially introducing new requirements to prevent injuries related to repetitive motions or other ergonomic hazards.