Rep. John Fitzgerald

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates May 2026 as ALS Awareness Month in Michigan to highlight the impact of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. The bill does not create new laws or funding but serves as a symbolic declaration to encourage public support for patients, caregivers, and ongoing research efforts. By formally recognizing the month, the legislation aims to increase community solidarity and draw attention to the need for continued medical advancements and resources for those affected by the disease.

Maddy summaryThis bill declares April 24, 2026, as Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day in the state of Michigan. It is a commemorative resolution that does not change laws or affect daily operations, but instead formally recognizes the date to honor victims of the 1915-1923 Armenian Genocide. The measure builds on Michigan's existing 2002 recognition of the genocide and aims to promote awareness and remembrance within the state.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the week of May 4-10, 2026, as Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week in Michigan. It aims to highlight the importance of recognizing postpartum depression and other maternal mental health issues among women of all backgrounds. The resolution encourages the public and healthcare providers to share information about warning signs and available resources during this designated period. By setting aside this specific time frame, the bill seeks to reduce stigma and promote awareness rather than implementing new laws or funding changes.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the week of May 4-8, 2026, as Teacher Appreciation Week throughout Michigan. It directly affects teachers, students, parents, and the general public by encouraging them to recognize and thank educators for their contributions. The resolution contains no new laws or funding, but rather serves as a formal declaration to honor the teaching profession.

Maddy summaryThis resolution officially designates May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month within the state of Michigan. It aims to honor the history, culture, and contributions of American Jews to the state and the nation. The measure does not change laws or create new programs but serves as a formal declaration of recognition.

Maddy summaryThis bill (HB 4599) amends Michigan's criminal code to address gift card fraud by adding Section 3a to existing statutes (MCL 752.1081-752.1087). It directly affects individuals who commit gift card fraud, such as stealing or selling stolen gift card numbers. The bill creates specific criminal penalties for these offenses but does not provide details on the exact penalties or scope in the given context. The bill passed the House on September 9, 2025, with strong support, and was referred to the Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety Committee. The context provided does not include the specific provisions or who is affected beyond the general fraud focus.

Maddy summaryHB 4598 expands Michigan's Organized Retail Crime Act to specifically address new tactics used in theft. It adds provisions criminalizing the acquisition, alteration, or use of stolen gift cards (subsections i(i)-(iii)), fraudulent wireless device purchases (subsections h), and manipulating fire exit alarms (subsections g) as organized retail crime. The bill makes these acts felonies punishable by up to 5 years in prison, $5,000 fines, or both, and requires offenders to pay restitution to retailers and forfeit stolen merchandise. This directly affects retailers (through enhanced protections) and individuals committing these expanded theft methods, while clarifying that property representation as stolen is sufficient for prosecution.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes the creation of a select committee to investigate the Interlochen Center for the Arts and its connection to Jeffrey Epstein. The committee would be tasked with examining the relationship between the arts center and the individual, potentially leading to further inquiries or recommendations. The measure is currently under consideration by the Michigan House of Representatives and has been referred to the Committee on Government Operations.