Sen. Erika Geiss

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates the week of June 23-29, 2026, as Grassroots Week in Michigan to honor precinct delegates and grassroots leaders. The measure aims to acknowledge the efforts of everyday residents who organize political movements and serve as a vital link between their communities and elected officials. By formally recognizing these individuals, the bill encourages state residents to express gratitude for their contributions to the democratic process.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Michigan's skilled trades regulation act to create a preliminary determination process for individuals with criminal convictions who are seeking professional licenses. Under the new rules, applicants can submit a request to the department to get an early assessment of whether their past court judgments would likely lead to a license denial based on good moral character requirements. The department must provide this written decision within 60 days and cannot require the applicant to complete education or training before making this initial review. Additionally, the bill requires the department to publish an annual report detailing the number of license denials and the specific criminal offenses that led to those decisions.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Michigan's Public Health Code to create a preliminary determination process for individuals seeking professional licensure or registration who have criminal court judgments. It allows applicants to request a written decision from the Department of Health and Human Services on whether their criminal history would likely result in a license denial based on good moral character requirements. The process requires applicants to submit a specific form, a nonrefundable fee, and details of their criminal proceedings, with the department required to provide a response within 60 days. Additionally, the bill clarifies that a negative preliminary determination does not bar a future license application and mandates that the department publish lists of disciplined individuals to inform the public and relevant agencies.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Michigan's occupational code to create a preliminary determination process for individuals seeking professional licenses who have criminal convictions. It allows applicants to request an early assessment from the department to see if their past court judgments would likely lead to a denial based on good moral character requirements. The legislation also modifies rules for relicensing, permitting individuals who let their licenses expire to renew without re-examination or additional training if they apply within three years and meet specific conditions. These changes aim to provide clearer guidance for applicants with criminal records and streamline the process for those who have lapsed in maintaining their professional credentials.

Maddy summaryThis bill appears to be a technical correction to Michigan's criminal procedure code. The title indicates it amends Section 14b of the 1927 Code of Criminal Procedure (MCL 777.14b) to remove a reference to the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Act, reflecting that the referenced section has been repealed. However, the provided context includes no substantive bill text, voting record, or detailed policy description beyond this procedural reference. Without additional content explaining the specific amendment or its practical effect, a full summary of policy changes cannot be provided. The bill was introduced on February 4, 2025, and referred to the Senate Committee on Labor.

Maddy summarySB 49 amends Michigan's Occupational Safety and Health Act to update key definitions and clarify enforcement responsibilities. It revises terms like "asbestos," "authorized employee representative," and "construction operations," while specifying that the Department of Labor handles safety enforcement and the Department of Public Health manages health enforcement. The bill requires these departments to annually report to legislative committees on overlapping authority and coordination efforts. This affects Michigan employers and workers, particularly in construction, agriculture, and asbestos-related industries, by updating how safety and health rules are defined and implemented.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires railroad companies in Michigan to operate freight trains with a minimum crew of two people. It applies to all freight trains unless the train is being moved within a yard for maintenance purposes, assisting another train with mechanical issues or steep grades, or if a federal law already mandates two crew members. The law defines specific terms like 'helper service' and 'hostler service' to clarify when the two-person crew requirement does not apply. By adding a new section to the existing railroad code, the measure establishes a new standard for crew staffing on freight operations.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Michigan's insurance code to require health insurers to provide consumers with a plain English summary of their policies and detailed information upon request. The legislation mandates that these summaries clearly explain coverage benefits, costs, exceptions, and renewal terms, while also ensuring policies are printed in a readable font size without highlighting specific text. Additionally, the bill requires insurers to disclose provider network details, professional credentials, and financial arrangements when asked, and it sets specific deadlines for delivering this information to applicants and policyholders.

Maddy summarySB 978 repeals the requirement that health insurers in Michigan provide emergency refills of prescription medications for up to a 30-day supply. This change directly affects insurance companies and their policyholders by removing the obligation to cover such emergency supplies under specific circumstances. The bill eliminates Section 3406w of the state's insurance code, which previously mandated these emergency coverage provisions. Consequently, insurers will no longer be required to grant these specific emergency refill exceptions, leaving the existing formulary and exception processes in Sections 3406o as the primary framework for drug coverage.

Maddy summarySB 974 updates Michigan's insurance code to align with the state's health insurance exchange by clarifying definitions for roles such as navigators and certified application counselors. The bill establishes strict rules requiring these individuals to be state-certified before they can receive funding or assist consumers with health plan enrollment. It explicitly prohibits them from selling insurance or recommending specific plans, ensuring they provide only impartial information about available coverage options. Additionally, the legislation mandates that the state director implement a certification program including background checks and privacy training to protect consumer data.