Sen. Paul Wojno

Maddy summarySenate Bill 212 aims to amend Michigan's State School Aid Act. Based on its title, the bill intends to create an exception for school districts to the minimum number of pupil instruction days required for state aid eligibility, specifically when districts close during a declared state of emergency. The provided truncated bill text outlines existing requirements for districts to report pupil attendance and meet minimum instructional hours and days to receive state aid, along with penalties for non-compliance. However, the specific language detailing the proposed exception for state of emergency closures is not included in this truncated text.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 129 amends Michigan's Open Meetings Act to expand the circumstances under which public bodies can hold electronic meetings. Primarily, it allows appointed members of public bodies with disabilities to participate remotely as an accommodation, enabling them to fully engage without disclosing the nature of their disability, provided they are physically in the state. However, this accommodation does not apply to elected members or to state legislative bodies when taking a formal vote. Additionally, the bill permits remote meetings for public bodies managing municipal public employee retirement systems and joint agencies formed under the Michigan energy employment act.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 24 designates April 11-17, 2025, as Black Maternal Health Week. This resolution formally commemorates the week to raise awareness about the disparities in maternal health outcomes affecting Black mothers.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 27 designates April 2025 as Financial Literacy Month in Michigan. The resolution aims to raise public awareness about the importance of personal financial education and encourages parents, schools, businesses, and other organizations to observe the month with relevant programs and activities.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution No. 25 recognizes April 2025 as Donate Life Month. This resolution encourages Michigan residents to join the Michigan Organ Donor Registry to help address the critical need for organ, tissue, and eye donations.

Maddy summarySB 194 amends Michigan's Public Health Code to clarify rules for veterinarians and veterinary technicians. It updates Section 18811 to specify that only licensed professionals may use restricted titles like "veterinarian," "veterinary surgeon," or "D.V.M." The bill also reinforces that veterinary technicians cannot diagnose diseases or prescribe treatments. These changes directly affect licensed veterinarians, technicians, and anyone using protected professional titles in Michigan. The bill does not create new programs but refines existing practice and title regulations.

Maddy summarySB 193 establishes that veterinarians in Michigan must maintain a formal veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) to practice veterinary medicine. This requires vets to assume responsibility for clinical decisions, have current knowledge of the animal (via in-person exams, telehealth under strict conditions, or on-site visits), and meet specific telehealth rules for companion animals only. The bill limits telehealth prescriptions to a 14-day supply without refills (with one renewal allowed via another telehealth exam), prohibits prescribing controlled substances via telehealth alone, and mandates in-person exams for such drugs. It also requires vets to inform owners about pharmacy options and provides follow-up care protocols. The bill is tied to SB 194 and is currently pending in committee.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a law) introduced by Senator Chang designating March 2025 as Social Work Month. It recognizes the contributions of social workers in Michigan and across the U.S., highlighting their roles in mental health care, child welfare, advocacy for vulnerable populations, and community support. The resolution calls on citizens to join the National Association of Social Workers in celebrating this month. It does not create new policies or affect specific groups through legislative action.

Maddy summarySB 51 establishes the Black Leadership Advisory Council to address racial inequity in Michigan. The council, composed of 15 governor-appointed members (including representation from specific fields like health and education, an immigrant expert, and a member aged 18-35), must develop policies to eliminate discrimination in areas like housing, employment, and healthcare. It is required to identify discriminatory state laws, collaborate with the governor on equitable legislation, and submit annual reports. The council operates independently but receives department staff support, with no compensation for members beyond expense reimbursement.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 17) is a symbolic recognition of March 17, 2025, as Saint Patrick’s Day. It does not create new laws, affect any specific group, or change policies. The resolution commemorates the Feast of Saint Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ireland, and acknowledges Irish cultural heritage and contributions to the U.S. The Senate adopted it on March 13, 2025, as a ceremonial gesture.