Maddy summarySB 1039 updates Michigan's consumer protection laws to strengthen rules against deceptive telephone solicitations and other unfair trade practices. The bill amends existing statutes to explicitly define and prohibit specific misleading behaviors, such as falsely claiming products are new, exaggerating price reductions, or misrepresenting a consumer's need for repairs. It also introduces stricter requirements for environmental claims, ensuring that labels like "recycled" or "degradable" are backed by evidence, and adds new protections for vulnerable consumers who may be unable to understand agreements due to disability or illiteracy. By clarifying these definitions and adding new prohibited acts, the legislation aims to provide clearer guidance to businesses and better safeguards for consumers engaging in various transactions.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Telephone Solicitation Act in Michigan to regulate how businesses and organizations make phone calls for sales, charity contributions, employment offers, or prize promotions. It defines specific terms such as "vulnerable individuals" (those 75 or older or with disabilities) and "vulnerable telephone numbers" like emergency lines and hospitals to protect these groups from unwanted contact. The law prohibits calling these protected numbers and requires clear, written consent from residents before using automated dialers, recorded messages, or prerecorded voicemails for solicitation purposes. Additionally, the act clarifies that calls to existing customers are generally allowed unless the customer has explicitly requested to stop receiving them, while also defining lead generation and low-income workers within the new framework.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Michigan's school code to require the state department to approve specific screening and diagnostic reading assessments for use in public schools and public school academies. The legislation mandates that these approved tools must evaluate students' progress toward reading proficiency while minimizing disruption to instructional time. Additionally, the bill outlines requirements for district-identified literacy coaches to support teachers in implementing evidence-based reading instruction and addressing reading deficiencies. These changes directly affect school districts, public school academies, teachers, and students by standardizing early literacy screening and enhancing professional support for reading instruction.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires Michigan teacher preparation programs to include specific instruction on dyslexia and the science of reading by September 2027. To maintain approval, these programs must teach candidates about the characteristics of dyslexia, its secondary consequences, instructional adjustments, and methods for using multi-tiered systems of support. Programs preparing educators for reading, language arts, or special education roles must also cover evidence-based interventions grounded in structured literacy. The law includes a waiver process for programs not focused on these areas, which must be reviewed every two years, and it only takes effect if a companion bill is passed.
Maddy summaryThis bill expands Michigan's existing breastfeeding protections to explicitly include the expression of human milk, such as pumping breast milk in public spaces. It prohibits businesses and public service providers from denying access or displaying signs that discourage individuals from breastfeeding or expressing milk. The law applies to any place of public accommodation or public service, ensuring that these activities are treated with the same non-discriminatory standards as actual breastfeeding.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates October 2024 as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month to highlight the prevalence and impact of non-cancerous uterine growths. The measure directly affects women across the United States, particularly noting that the condition disproportionately impacts women of color and can lead to severe health issues, infertility, and significant economic costs. While the bill does not change laws or allocate funding, it formally acknowledges the condition's challenges and urges greater research, data collection, and improved care options for patients.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates the period from September 15 to October 15, 2024, as Hispanic Heritage Month within the state of Michigan. The measure formally recognizes the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors originate from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. By adopting this designation, the legislative body acknowledges the significant economic, social, and cultural impact of the Hispanic and Latino community in Michigan. The resolution serves as an official proclamation to encourage the celebration of this heritage through various programs and events during the specified timeframe.
Maddy summaryThis bill increases death and disability benefits for Michigan public safety officers who are injured or killed while performing their duties. Starting October 1, 2024, the state will pay $50,000 to the officer's surviving spouse or dependents, or to their estate if no family members exist, whereas claims paid before that date will receive $25,000. The additional payment is intended to be given on top of any other benefits the family may already receive. The law applies retroactively to any benefit applications that were pending on or after the October 1, 2024 effective date.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally recognizes October 2024 as Health Literacy Month to raise awareness about the importance of understanding health information. The bill highlights that limited health literacy significantly impacts public health outcomes and costs the healthcare system billions annually, affecting people across all demographics. It encourages the general public and Michigan organizations to focus on education and the use of clear, plain language to help individuals make informed health decisions.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially recognizes September 26, 2024, as World Contraception Day within the Michigan legislative body. The measure is sponsored by Senator Sarah Anthony and serves to acknowledge the importance of access to contraception for individuals in the state. While the bill does not alter any laws or funding, it formally adopts a date to honor contraception as a critical healthcare tool that supports personal autonomy and public health.