Rep. John Fitzgerald

Maddy summaryHB 4759 encourages public employers (like state agencies, cities, schools, and community colleges) to use an expedited hiring process for dislocated federal employees who are referred through the state's reemployment services program. The bill requires public employers receiving such referrals to prioritize these candidates, though it does not mandate hiring. Key provisions include defining "public employer" broadly and specifying that this process must follow existing constitutional hiring rules for state positions. It does not override other laws but depends on another bill (HB 4758) being enacted first. The measure directly affects dislocated federal workers seeking new jobs and public employers hiring for open positions.

Maddy summaryHR 148 is a ceremonial resolution declaring August 2, 2025, as Neighborhood Empowerment Day in Michigan. It honors community organizations, volunteers, and grassroots efforts that improve neighborhoods through initiatives like beautification, youth programs, and civic engagement. The resolution has no policy or funding mechanisms - it is a symbolic gesture recognizing existing community work, such as efforts by groups like ARISE Detroit! that mobilize residents for local revitalization. It directly affects no individuals or entities beyond acknowledging these volunteer-driven community achievements.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 146) symbolically declares August 3-9, 2025, as National Health Center Week in Michigan. It recognizes Michigan's community health centers, which serve over 675,000 residents across 450+ sites and provide primary care, behavioral health, and other services. The resolution honors these centers' role in improving health outcomes, supporting local economies ($1.7 billion impact), and addressing healthcare access barriers statewide. As a procedural resolution, it does not create new policy or alter existing law.

Maddy summaryThis resolution declares July 21-25, 2025, as Fibroids Awareness Week in Michigan. It symbolically recognizes uterine fibroids - noncancerous uterine tumors affecting many women, especially Black women - and aims to raise public awareness about their health impacts. The resolution has no policy or funding provisions; it simply encourages Michiganders to learn about fibroids and support affected individuals. It is a ceremonial measure introduced by Representative Morgan Foreman and adopted on July 24, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis resolution declares July 2025 as Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness Month in Michigan to raise public awareness about birth defects affecting the lip and mouth (cleft lip/palate). It does not create new laws, funding, or services but aims to highlight the needs of individuals and families affected by these conditions. The resolution cites that orofacial clefts impact 1-2 in 1,000 newborns and can cause feeding, speech, and health challenges requiring medical care. It was introduced and adopted by the Michigan House on July 24, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 4721 creates tax credits for biodiesel sales and production in Michigan, effective 2025-2030. Retail fuel dealers receive credits of $0.02-$0.07 per gallon for selling biodiesel blends (6-9%, 10-19%, or 20%+), while biodiesel producers get $0.02 per gallon. Total credits are capped at $16 million annually for retailers and $2 million for producers, with excess claims distributed proportionally. The bill directly affects Michigan fuel retailers and biodiesel producers by reducing their income tax liability based on specific blend volumes sold or produced.

Maddy summaryHB 4722 creates tax credits to incentivize biodiesel use in Michigan. Retail fuel dealers selling biodiesel blends (6-9% at $0.02/gal, 10-19% at $0.05/gal, 20%+ at $0.07/gal) can claim credits, while biodiesel producers get $0.02 per gallon produced. Credits apply for tax years 2025-2030, with a $16 million total cap for retailers and a $2 million cap for producers. This directly affects Michigan fuel retailers and biodiesel manufacturers by reducing their income tax liability for qualifying sales and production.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 141) symbolically declares July 1, 2025, as "Invisible Wounds Day" in Michigan to raise awareness about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It aims to highlight the invisible mental health impacts of trauma - such as flashbacks, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness - experienced by both veterans and civilians, while addressing the stigma surrounding PTSD. The resolution has no legal effect or new funding; it is purely a symbolic gesture to validate those affected and encourage community support. It was introduced and adopted by the Michigan House of Representatives on July 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 4675 requires Michigan's education department to develop and share a list of optional cursive handwriting instruction programs for public schools by June 2027. Starting in the 2026-2027 or 2027-2028 school year, school districts and public school academies are encouraged - but not required - to incorporate one of these model programs into their curriculum. The bill aims to support schools in meeting existing credit requirements under Michigan’s merit standards by offering cursive instruction as a voluntary option. It directly affects Michigan public schools by providing resources for optional handwriting education, without mandating changes to current standards.

Maddy summaryHR 138 is a symbolic resolution introduced by Michigan House representatives to declare June 2025 as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Pride Month in the state. It does not create new laws or policies but formally recognizes the historical significance of LGBTQ+ rights movements, including the Stonewall Riots and key legal victories like Obergefell and Bostock. The resolution aims to affirm Michigan's support for LGBTQ+ communities and their contributions to the state's cultural and economic vitality. This declaration directly affects all Michiganders by officially honoring Pride Month through state-level recognition.