Rep. Abraham Aiyash

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits the force-feeding of any bird species in Michigan by requiring that food be delivered only through methods the bird would choose voluntarily. It defines force-feeding as using tubes or devices to force a bird to eat more than it would naturally, and it applies this rule specifically to poultry. Anyone violating this ban faces a civil fine of up to $1,000 for each day the violation continues, which can be pursued by county prosecutors or the state attorney general. The legislation does not impose criminal penalties for this specific violation and amends the state's Animal Industry Act to include this new restriction.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to change how income is calculated for people applying for Michigan's state medical assistance program. Specifically, it would exclude money received from the Michigan Baby Bond Trust Account program when determining if an applicant qualifies for help. The bill does not alter other rules regarding support payments from estranged spouses or parents, nor does it change the overall income threshold used for eligibility. Because this bill requires another piece of legislation to pass first, it is currently inactive and has not yet taken effect.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Michigan's veterinary laws to formally require a veterinarian-client-patient relationship before a veterinarian can treat an animal. To establish this relationship, a veterinarian must assume responsibility for clinical judgments, obtain the owner's agreement to follow instructions, and have current knowledge of the animal through an in-person exam, a specific telehealth visit, or a visit to the animal's location. The legislation explicitly allows veterinarians to conduct telehealth exams for companion animals using real-time audio and video, provided they have the necessary equipment and are available for emergencies. However, it restricts telehealth by prohibiting remote exams for non-companion animals, forbidding the issuance of interstate health certificates remotely, and limiting remote prescriptions to a 14-day supply without refills. Additionally, the bill mandates that controlled substances can only be prescribed after an in-person examination or a visit to the animal's premises.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new Energy Stability Fund within the state treasury to help cover energy costs for specific groups of people. The fund can receive money from any source, and the state treasurer will manage its investments while the Department of Health and Human Services oversees its use. Money in the fund will not be returned to the general budget at the end of the year and can only be spent to provide energy assistance to low-income seniors, individuals with qualified disabilities, and veterans.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a one-time tax credit of up to $10,000 for Michigan residents who incur unreimbursed costs related to live organ donation. Starting in the 2025 tax year, eligible individuals can claim this credit for expenses such as travel, lodging, lost wages, and child care, provided they submit proof of the donation and related costs. The credit is not refundable, meaning it can only reduce the tax owed to zero but will not result in a cash payment if the credit amount exceeds the taxpayer's liability.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands eligibility for special "disabled veteran" license plates in Michigan to include partially disabled veterans who have a service-connected disability rating of at least 50%, in addition to those with total disabilities. The law allows these eligible veterans to obtain plates marked with "DV" and "disabled veteran" without paying the standard service fee, while also permitting their surviving spouses to use the plates after the veteran's death. Furthermore, the legislation authorizes the Secretary of State to issue free adhesive disability tabs to these veterans and their spouses, provided the applicant also meets the state's criteria for a permanent windshield placard. These changes aim to increase recognition and support for a broader range of veterans by simplifying the application process and reducing associated costs.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows courts to use records of deferred domestic violence charges as evidence when deciding child custody and parenting time cases. It requires courts to make these previously sealed records available to judges and the parties involved in custody disputes to help determine the best interests of the child. The legislation does not change how domestic violence cases are handled but instead ensures that past deferred charges are visible in family court proceedings.

Maddy summaryHB 6009 amends Michigan's penal code to establish new guidelines for expert testimony in assault cases involving domestic violence or attacks on healthcare workers. The bill requires that any expert witness testifying in these specific prosecutions must have demonstrated expertise and experience working with victims of domestic violence. Additionally, the legislation defines key terms such as "dating relationship" and "health professional" to clarify the scope of protected individuals and situations. These changes aim to ensure that expert testimony in such cases is provided by individuals with relevant background knowledge.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits the owners and top executives of contractors seeking or holding state and local government contracts worth at least $250,000 from making political donations. The restrictions apply to contributions to candidates, political parties, and specific types of advocacy groups during a period starting 18 months before a contract is sought and ending 18 months after the contract concludes. If a contractor violates these rules, they face penalties including the cancellation of current contracts or disqualification from future contracts for up to three years. The law defines "contractor" to include businesses and nonprofits receiving significant government funding and specifies which individuals within those organizations are subject to the donation ban.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Michigan's Child Custody Act to strengthen how courts handle parenting time when domestic violence or abuse is alleged. It requires judges to specifically consider certain evidence, such as protection orders, arrests, and victim assessments, while also establishing stricter rules for admitting expert testimony in these cases. The legislation further restricts courts from removing children from safe, bonded caregivers or ordering reunification therapy unless the treatment is proven safe and effective, and it mandates that courts address the abusive parent's behavior before blaming the other parent for a child's resistance to contact. These changes aim to ensure that decisions regarding custody and visitation prioritize the safety and well-being of children in families affected by violence or coercive control.