Sen. Kevin Hertel

Maddy summarySB 447 requires Michigan health insurers to cover specific treatments for pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders (PANS/PANDAS), including antibiotics, behavioral therapies, immunomodulating medicines, and IVIG therapy. It mandates that coverage for these conditions cannot have higher copays, deductibles, or coinsurance than other treatments, must be authorized promptly for urgent cases, and cannot be denied based on prior treatments or different diagnoses. Insurers must follow evidence-based medical guidelines developed by a consortium of experts when reviewing coverage requests, and the bill specifies standardized ICD-10 coding for billing purposes. This law directly affects children diagnosed with these conditions and all health insurers operating in Michigan, ensuring consistent access to medically necessary care.

Maddy summarySB 266 allows individuals applying for Michigan's medical assistance program (like Medicaid) to pay family members or household members for personal care services without triggering asset divestment penalties. It creates two types of valid agreements: "qualified" (written, signed in advance) and "affirmed" (oral or partial written, with documentation), both requiring payments at fair market value. Payments under these agreements won't count as asset transfers that disqualify applicants, provided they meet specific criteria like documented service details and local rate comparisons. The bill directly affects people seeking medical assistance who rely on family caregivers instead of paid providers.

Maddy summarySB 73 amends Michigan's liquor license law (MCL 436.1513) to permit Macomb Community College to serve alcohol at its Sports and Expo Center Complex. The bill specifically modifies the existing licensing rules to include this venue, allowing the college to operate under current alcohol service regulations. This change directly affects Macomb Community College by enabling alcohol service at a specific campus facility. The policy adjustment does not alter broader liquor laws but enables this particular venue to comply with existing licensing standards.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 59) designates June 10, 2025, as Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) Day in Michigan. It is a symbolic recognition resolution, not a law with policy changes, intended to raise awareness about FSGS - a rare kidney disease causing scarring that disproportionately affects Black communities and often leads to kidney failure. The resolution highlights FSGS's impact, including high healthcare costs and diagnostic challenges, while acknowledging ongoing efforts to improve treatment and support. It directly affects FSGS patients, families, and advocates by promoting visibility for the disease and related initiatives.

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 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 208 creates the Michigan Veterans Coalition Grant Program, which provides state funding to veteran service organizations (VSOs) to support their operations. To qualify, VSOs must certify they provide accredited veteran service officer hours to help veterans access federal benefits like healthcare and financial aid. Grants come from the existing Michigan Veterans Coalition Fund and cover allowable costs directly tied to veteran service operations, such as staffing and outreach. The program requires approval from the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency and depends on SB 207 becoming law. The bill passed the Senate on June 3, 2025, but remains pending legislative action.

Maddy summarySB 207 creates the Michigan Veterans Coalition Fund in the state treasury to support veterans' services. The fund receives and manages money from various sources (not lapsing to the general fund), with the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency administering it to establish and run a grant program. This program will provide funding to organizations serving Michigan veterans, directly benefiting veterans through community-based support services. The bill requires Senate Bill 208 to pass first before taking effect.

Maddy summarySB 344 modifies Michigan's property tax credit for individual income tax filers by changing the percentage rates used to calculate the credit. It directly affects homeowners who claim this credit, particularly those with lower property values who benefit from the credit against their state income tax. The bill amends specific sections of Michigan's Income Tax Act to adjust the credit percentages, making the calculation more precise. This change alters how much property tax can be deducted from income tax liability for eligible residents.

Maddy summarySB 345 increases the property tax credit threshold for Michigan homeowners, raising the taxable value cap for homestead property tax credits from $135,000 to $160,700 for the 2024 tax year. Beginning in 2025, the cap will automatically adjust annually based on the U.S. Consumer Price Index, rounded to the nearest $100. This change directly affects homeowners whose property value falls within the new threshold, allowing them to claim a larger credit against their state income tax for qualifying property taxes. The bill modifies Section 520 of Michigan’s Income Tax Act to implement this adjustment.