Sen. Erika Geiss

Maddy summarySB 359 creates Michigan's "Personal Data Privacy Act," giving residents (consumers) new rights over their personal data collected by businesses. It requires companies to clearly disclose data practices, implement a universal "opt-out" for data sharing, and register as data brokers if selling consumer information. The law specifically prohibits deceptive practices like "dark patterns" and protects sensitive data including health information (such as gender-affirming or reproductive care) and precise location data. Businesses must follow new standards for handling data, with civil penalties for violations.

Maddy summarySB 371 prohibits Michigan health insurers from limiting coverage for inpatient psychiatric care based on the length of a patient's stay. This directly affects health insurers operating in Michigan and individuals receiving inpatient psychiatric treatment. The bill amends Michigan's Insurance Code to add a new provision (Sec. 3406mm) that explicitly bans insurers from imposing duration-based restrictions on such coverage. The key mechanism is a clear prohibition on using time limits as a basis for denying or restricting psychiatric inpatient care coverage. This represents a concrete policy change to ensure continuous coverage for patients needing extended psychiatric hospitalization.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 55) formally recognizes June 2025 as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer+ (LGBTQ+) Pride Month in the state of Michigan. It does not create new laws or change existing policies; instead, it serves as a symbolic statement of recognition by the Michigan Senate. The resolution highlights historical milestones for LGBTQ+ rights, including Michigan's 2023 law adding sexual orientation and gender identity to anti-discrimination protections, and acknowledges ongoing efforts to support LGBTQ+ communities. As a procedural resolution, it directly affects the state's official calendar and public acknowledgment of Pride Month, without imposing any legal obligations.

Maddy summarySB 156 expands the authority of Michigan's Office of the Legislative Corrections Ombudsman to investigate complaints about the Department of Corrections. The bill requires the ombudsman to create a standardized complaint form (available online and in correctional facilities) and grants access to department records - including prisoner medical, mental health, and mortality records - without needing a release. It also allows the ombudsman to enter correctional facilities for inspections at any time (including emergencies like riots), consult with qualified experts after background checks, and hold informal hearings. This directly affects prisoners, their family members, prisoner advocates, and the Department of Corrections by strengthening oversight of correctional operations.

Maddy summarySB 157 creates a new regulatory framework for pet cemeteries in the state. It directly affects pet cemetery operators and pet owners by establishing licensing requirements, minimum burial standards, and enforcement procedures. Key provisions include mandating state licenses for all pet cemeteries, setting standards for plot maintenance and record-keeping, and creating a complaint process for consumers. The bill passed the House on June 10, 2025, and now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

Maddy summarySB 287 amends Michigan law to protect the validity of marriages performed by certain officials (like county clerks, judges, or authorized religious leaders) even if the officiant later lacks full authority. It ensures such marriages aren’t voided if both people believed they were legally married at the time. This directly affects couples who married under these circumstances, preventing future legal challenges based on officiant authority. The bill is contingent on companion bill SB 285 also passing, as noted in the enacting section.

Maddy summarySB 286 amends Michigan's marriage licensing law (1887 PA 128) to clarify requirements for obtaining marriage licenses and for officiants. It specifies that all couples, including non-residents, must obtain a license from the county clerk where the marriage will occur, and requires officiants to properly complete marriage certificates with all required details. The bill increases penalties for officiants who perform marriages without a valid license, raising the fine from $100 to $500 or up to 90 days in jail. This bill is contingent on the passage of companion bill SB 285 and passed the Senate on June 10, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 285 amends Michigan law to allow state legislators to officiate weddings, adding them to the list of authorized marriage officiants alongside judges, mayors, and religious ministers. This change directly affects couples marrying in Michigan by expanding their options for who can perform the ceremony. The bill does not alter existing fee structures for mayors or county clerks, which remain tied to local government budgets. The change requires approval of companion bill SB 286 to take effect.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 54) designates June 2025 as "Gun Violence Awareness Month" to honor victims of gun violence, including references to tragedies like Michigan State University and Oxford High School. It encourages citizens to participate in the "Wear Orange" movement - symbolizing the national gun violence prevention effort - and supports community efforts to prevent gun violence. As a commemorative resolution, it has no legal effect and does not create new policies or directly affect specific groups. The resolution was introduced and adopted by the Senate on June 3, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 343, the "Reporting of Law Enforcement Officer Misconduct Privacy Act," protects the privacy of people who file complaints about police misconduct. It requires law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and others handling such complaints to keep the complainant's identity confidential unless the person requests disclosure, gives written permission, or disclosure is required by court order, criminal proceedings, or internal investigations. The law prohibits unauthorized disclosure of identifying information and imposes a $500 civil fine for violations. It directly affects individuals reporting misconduct and all entities receiving or investigating such complaints.