Rep. Jay DeBoyer

Maddy summaryHB 5123 amends Michigan's Uniform Video Services Local Franchise Act by clarifying the definition of "video service" to explicitly include cable, IPTV (internet protocol television), and OVS (open video systems), while excluding mobile streaming services, direct satellite TV, and internet-based video access. This definition directly affects video service providers (like cable companies and IPTV providers) who must operate under franchise agreements with local governments. The bill ensures these providers pay required fees for using public rights-of-way, without changing existing franchise obligations for current providers. It is a technical clarification of existing law, not a new policy change.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Michigan's property tax laws to ensure that farms offering agritourism activities or direct marketing retain their lower agricultural tax classification. It defines agritourism as public events like tours, festivals, and weddings held on the farm, while direct marketing includes selling products directly to consumers at roadside stands or farm stores. The legislation clarifies that engaging in these activities will not cause a property to lose its special tax status, shifting the burden of proof to the state department if a challenge is raised. Additionally, the bill specifies that certain buildings used for these activities, such as on-farm stores or event spaces, count as agricultural outbuildings for tax purposes.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Michigan's Administrative Procedures Act to change how state agencies create and review new rules. It requires agencies to submit detailed requests for rule-making electronically to the Office of Regulatory Reinvention, which must approve these requests before agencies can proceed. The bill also updates the process for the Legislative Service Bureau to formally certify proposed rules, including stricter timelines and requirements for correcting errors in rule formatting or impact analyses.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Michigan's Administrative Procedures Act to clarify how courts should review administrative rules. It establishes that publishing a rule in the official register creates a legal presumption that the rule was properly adopted and filed, and it requires courts to take judicial notice of rules that have become effective. Additionally, the bill instructs judges to exercise independent judgment when determining if an agency acted within its legal authority, specifically prohibiting deference to an agency's interpretation of ambiguous laws. These changes directly affect state agencies that create regulations and the courts that adjudicate challenges to those regulations.

Maddy summaryHB 5818 amends Michigan's Administrative Procedures Act to update definitions and establish a new Joint Committee on Regulatory Oversight and Administrative Review. The bill clarifies terms like 'agency' and 'major rule' while creating a formal process for the new committee to review proposed rules and issue objections. It also modifies requirements for how agencies publish rules, handle contested cases, and manage public comment periods.

Maddy summaryHB 5574 prohibits approaching within 25 feet of a first responder who is lawfully performing their duties after being verbally warned not to approach, if the person intends to interfere, threaten, or harass them. It directly affects individuals who target first responders (like police, firefighters, or EMTs) during emergency operations. Violations are misdemeanors punishable by up to 60 days in jail or $500 fines, but become felonies causing injury (up to 2 years) or death (up to 15 years), with fines up to $7,500. The law focuses on preventing direct obstruction or harm during critical incidents, not general public behavior.

Maddy summaryHB 5576 amends Michigan's sentencing guidelines to specifically address crimes targeting first responders. It adds intimidation or harassment of individuals based on their actual or perceived employment as a first responder (like police, firefighters, or EMTs) to the list of offenses that warrant enhanced sentencing. The bill changes Section 16t of the Michigan Code of Criminal Procedure (MCL 777.16t) to require courts to consider this factor when determining sentences for such crimes. This directly affects individuals convicted of threatening or harassing first responders, ensuring their actions are treated with greater severity under sentencing rules.

Maddy summaryHB 5575 defines specific terms related to harassment of first responders in Michigan law. It adds a new section to the penal code clarifying that "first responder" includes law enforcement officers, corrections officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel. The bill defines "harass" as intentionally causing substantial emotional distress through a course of conduct with no legitimate purpose. This creates a clear legal standard for prosecuting harassment against these public safety workers, directly affecting their protection under state law.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies the penalties for the crime of terrorism in Michigan by updating the language in the state penal code. It directly affects individuals charged with knowingly and premeditated acts of terrorism, ensuring the statute clearly mandates life imprisonment without parole if the act results in death. The legislation also maintains existing provisions that allow for a fine of up to $100,000 or a prison term of at least 25 years for other terrorism-related convictions. These changes aim to clarify the legal consequences for those convicted of terrorism under current laws.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Michigan's guardianship and conservatorship laws to strengthen protections for vulnerable individuals under court supervision. It primarily affects professional guardians and conservators, requiring them to file financial bonds or restricted accounts, disclose any outside compensation received, and maintain regular visitation schedules with the individuals they serve. The legislation also mandates that guardians consult with legally incapacitated individuals before making major decisions and clarifies the specific powers guardians have regarding medical consent, property management, and care arrangements. Additionally, it authorizes certain nonbanking corporations to serve as professional fiduciaries while limiting their authority to the specific cases in which they are appointed.