Rep. John Fitzgerald

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Michigan law to allow the Secretary of State to issue official state identification cards directly to individuals currently on parole or recently released from correctional facilities. The program requires the Secretary of State to electronically verify a prisoner's identity using records from the Department of Corrections and issue the card before the individual's projected release date. If the card cannot be delivered in time, the bill mandates that it be mailed to the Department of Corrections for handover to the individual. The legislation also clarifies that applicants who are not U.S. citizens must provide documents proving their legal presence in the United States and prohibits the Secretary of State from displaying Social Security numbers on the cards.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new Office of Tribal Legislative Liaison within Michigan's Legislative Council to strengthen government-to-government relationships between the state legislature and federally recognized tribes. The office will be led by a liaison appointed by the council from a list provided by the United Tribes of Michigan, who will be supported by at least two policy advisors. Key duties include visiting each tribe annually, advising lawmakers on how proposed legislation impacts tribal communities, and providing mandatory training for legislators on tribal history and consultation processes. Additionally, the office must submit an annual public report detailing tribal concerns raised during the legislative process to the governor and legislative leaders.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits health insurance companies in Michigan from discriminating against licensed healthcare providers who are acting within the scope of their professional licenses. While insurers must not unfairly exclude these providers from their policies, the law does not force them to contract with every willing provider or to pay the same reimbursement rates to all. The legislation defines discrimination based on existing federal standards and clarifies that "health professional" includes anyone authorized to practice under the state's public health code.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a program to issue driver's licenses and state identification cards to individuals who are on parole. It directly affects parolees by allowing them to obtain these documents, which are necessary for daily activities like driving or proving identity. The legislation amends the Michigan Vehicle Code to create the legal framework for this issuance. Although the bill passed both houses of the legislature, it was ultimately vetoed by the Governor.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Michigan's sentencing guidelines to specify the prison terms for sexual extortion and aggravated sexual extortion. It directly affects individuals charged with these crimes by establishing a tiered system where penalties increase based on whether it is a first, second, or subsequent offense, and by adding higher maximum sentences for cases involving specific aggravating factors. The legislation also adjusts sentencing ranges for other related felonies, such as impersonating public officials and various types of fraud, to align with current legal standards. By amending the Code of Criminal Procedure, the bill provides judges with clearer instructions on how long offenders must serve for these specific violations.

Maddy summaryThis law requires health professionals in Michigan to offer mental health screenings to new mothers during postpartum visits or well-child checkups for their infants. Starting in January 2026, doctors and nurses in pediatric or obstetric settings must provide these screenings, while other licensed health workers may offer them until the child turns one year old. The state is authorized to create a screening tool, but providers can also use existing evidence-based methods to assess maternal mental health risks. If a professional identifies potential mental health needs, they can provide information on symptoms, treatment options, and referrals to support services. The law defines "health professional" to include anyone licensed to practice medicine, nursing, or other regulated health professions in the state.

Maddy summaryThis law requires hospitals in Michigan to give parents or guardians a specific guide on how to enroll their newborns in health insurance if the baby is not already covered by a plan. The state's insurance and health departments will create this informational document to help families navigate the enrollment process. This rule applies only to live children born in hospitals and does not change the underlying insurance laws or create new penalties for hospitals.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Michigan's public health laws to require that donors of breast milk be tested for HIV before their milk is used. It applies to licensed facilities that collect human tissues or body fluids for introduction into a human body, ensuring that all potential donors are screened for the presence of HIV or antibodies to HIV. If a test result is positive, the milk cannot be used unless specific emergency exceptions apply, such as when testing is not possible due to exigent circumstances and both the donor and recipient provide written informed consent. Additionally, the law mandates that facilities must inform donors of any positive test results and holds violators civilly liable for damages caused by failing to comply with these testing requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Michigan's Enhanced Driver License and Enhanced Official State Personal Identification Card Act to clarify the information applicants must provide and how their data is handled. It requires individuals applying for these IDs to submit proof of citizenship, a completed application with personal details, and a fee, while also allowing them to opt out of voter registration on the form. The legislation outlines specific rules for capturing facial images and signatures, limits their use to authorized law enforcement purposes, and mandates that Social Security numbers remain hidden on the front of the cards. Additionally, it establishes procedures for verifying applications, retaining records for a set period, and managing designations for individuals with communication impediments.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires Michigan school districts to allow Native American students to wear traditional clothing and bring culturally significant items during school ceremonies. It defines these ceremonies to include events like graduations and honor society meetings, while ensuring that any prohibited weapons or dangerous items remain banned. The law specifically protects the right of Indigenous individuals to express their cultural and ancestral traditions within the educational setting.