Rep. Joe Pavlov

Maddy summaryHB 5326 would allow Michigan police officers to intercept, disable, or destroy drones flying in violation of federal aviation rules or posing public safety risks. It directly affects drone operators whose flights breach FAA guidelines and provides officers immunity from liability for damage to the drones. The bill’s key provision requires that federal law first be amended to permit such actions before the state law takes effect. This bill is currently in committee review and does not change existing federal drone regulations.

Maddy summaryHB 5515 amends Michigan's penal code to clarify the definition of a "dangerous weapon" under Section 227. It specifically includes double-edged nonfolding stabbing instruments longer than 5 inches, such as daggers, dirks, and stilettos, in the list of prohibited weapons. This change directly affects individuals carrying these weapons outside their home, business, or personal property without a valid license. The bill does not create new restrictions but refines the legal definition governing when such items are considered illegal to carry.

Maddy summaryHB 5388 amends Michigan's penal code (MCL 750.224d) to update the definition of "self-defense spray or foam device" to explicitly allow dispensing through cartridges or projectiles, rather than only handheld devices. This change directly affects manufacturers, sellers, and users of these devices by expanding permissible delivery methods while maintaining existing chemical limits (e.g., 18% oleoresin capsicum or 8% chlorobenzylidene malononitrile). The bill does not alter the current restrictions on chemical concentrations, prohibited uses, or penalties for misuse. It aims to modernize the legal framework for self-defense devices as technology evolves.

Maddy summaryHB 4708 updates Michigan's law for marinas and boatyards to clarify how they enforce liens on stored watercraft (like boats and trailers) when owners don't pay for services. It requires facility owners to send written notice to the property owner and the secretary of state after 60 days of non-payment (or 180 days if other liens exist), and to advertise the sale in a local newspaper for two weeks. Sale proceeds must cover the facility owner's costs first, then the lien, then other liens in order, with any surplus returned to the property owner. The bill also allows other lienholders to pay to stop the sale and provides steps for resolving disputes about lien priority.

Maddy summaryHB 5915 amends Michigan's Sex Offender Registration Act to clarify the criminal penalties for individuals who willfully violate registration requirements. The bill establishes a tiered sentencing system where first-time offenders face up to four years in prison or a $2,000 fine, while those with one prior violation could be sentenced to life imprisonment or at least seven years, and repeat offenders could receive life sentences or at least ten years. Additionally, the legislation specifies that courts must revoke probation or youthful trainee status, and parole boards must rescind parole for individuals who willfully break the law, while also allowing violations to be prosecuted in the judicial district where the person lived, actually resides, or was arrested.

Maddy summaryHB 5906 updates Michigan's skilled trades regulations to clarify that only licensed individuals can install electrical wiring, fire alarm systems, and electric signs, while requiring permits from the relevant board or municipality for such work. The bill creates a specific exception allowing property owners to obtain permits when unlicensed volunteers perform electrical work for charitable organizations on 1-to-4-family homes during reconstruction or renovation. Additionally, it establishes a pathway for individuals already licensed in other states to receive a Michigan sign specialty license without taking an examination, provided the foreign state's standards meet or exceed Michigan's. This legislation is tied to another bill, HB 5905, meaning it will only become effective if that companion measure is also passed.

Maddy summaryHB 5916 amends Michigan's Revised Judicature Act to update the legal age threshold for criminal contempt penalties associated with violating personal protection orders. The bill changes the age requirement from 17 to 18 years old, meaning individuals aged 18 and older who violate such orders face immediate arrest and potential felony charges with a maximum prison sentence of 181 days and a fine of up to $500. This change directly affects adults who are subject to restraining orders and law enforcement officers who enforce them. The amendment clarifies sentencing guidelines for adult respondents while maintaining existing protections for minors.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Michigan's Social Welfare Act to impose mandatory prison sentences for individuals who commit fraud to obtain government assistance or for those who knowingly fail to report required financial information. Under the new provisions, anyone convicted of obtaining relief through false statements or hiding income would face a fixed sentence of between 2.5 and 4 years in prison, regardless of the specific amount involved. The legislation also mandates that employees of social welfare agencies who authorize relief for ineligible individuals be removed from their positions upon conviction. Additionally, the bill clarifies the reporting obligations for recipients, requiring them to disclose employment offers and changes in circumstances that might affect their eligibility for aid.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Michigan's penal code to establish mandatory minimum sentences for specific assault and battery offenses. It directly affects individuals convicted of assaulting spouses, dating partners, household members, or pregnant victims, as well as those with prior convictions for similar acts against these groups. The key provision requires that anyone found guilty of these crimes receive a prison term of at least one year, with higher minimums of two and a half years or five years depending on the victim's status and the offender's criminal history. Additionally, the bill mandates that healthcare facilities post signs warning that assaulting medical staff can result in enhanced fines.

Maddy summaryHB 5911 amends Michigan's Identity Theft Protection Act to establish mandatory minimum prison sentences for repeat offenders who commit identity theft crimes. Specifically, the bill requires a minimum of 10 years in prison for a third or subsequent violation of the act and a minimum of 2 years and 6 months for certain violations involving specific types of data breaches. These sentencing rules apply regardless of whether the victim is alive or deceased at the time of the crime and allow courts to order prison terms to be served consecutively with other related convictions. The legislation also clarifies that these mandatory sentences do not apply to violations of state or federal regulations governing financial institutions and insurance.