Sen. Kevin Hertel

Maddy summarySenate Bill 259 revises the statute of limitations for certain claims made against the state of Michigan. While most claims against the state remain subject to a three-year filing deadline, this bill specifically exempts claims related to criminal sexual conduct violations from this general time limit (MCL 600.5851b). The bill makes these changes retroactive, applying to relevant legal actions that are currently pending or are filed in the future. This legislation is tied to two other Senate Bills and will only take effect if they are also enacted.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 261 modifies state law regarding civil claims filed against the State of Michigan. It creates an exception to the existing requirement that claimants provide formal notice to the state within a specific timeframe (generally one year) before filing a lawsuit in the court of claims. Specifically, this bill exempts civil actions for criminal sexual conduct from these notice requirements. The changes apply retroactively to relevant pending cases, provided Senate Bill 257 is also enacted into law.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 308 creates a new refundable "working parent tax credit" for eligible taxpayers in Michigan, effective for tax years beginning January 1, 2025. This credit provides $5,500 per qualified dependent aged four or younger, for taxpayers with a household income not exceeding 150% of the state median income. The bill also establishes a program for the Department to issue monthly advance payments of this credit to qualified taxpayers. However, taxpayers enrolled in an Rx Kids program are not eligible for this credit.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 46 recognizes May 14, 2025, as Michigan Rail Day. This resolution aims to celebrate the significant role that freight and passenger rail systems play for the residents and economy of Michigan.

Maddy summarySB 6 updates Michigan's wage law to strengthen employee protections around pay deductions. It requires written employee consent for most wage deductions (including charitable contributions to nonprofits) and limits overpayment deductions to 15% of gross wages without consent. The bill clarifies that fringe benefits (like vacation pay) are separate from wages and creates new rules for employers dealing with independent contractors. These changes directly affect employers across Michigan and their employees who receive wages or fringe benefits.

Maddy summarySB 176 appropriates $986.6 million for Michigan's Department of State Police for fiscal year 2025-2026, funding current operations and services. It directly affects the state police agency by allocating resources for core functions like forensic science ($51.7 million), criminal justice information ($29.9 million), trooper training ($5 million), and school safety programs. Key provisions detail specific funding amounts for classified positions, equipment, and specialized units including biometrics, forensic labs, and 911 administration. This is a routine budget bill providing necessary funding for existing state police programs, not creating new policies or services.

Maddy summarySB 175 is a funding bill that allocates $291.5 million for Michigan's Department of Military and Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 2025-2026. It directly provides funding for Michigan National Guard operations (including training and facilities), veterans service agencies (through county grants and administration), and veterans homes (like Chesterfield, Grand Rapids, and Jacobetti facilities). The bill specifies funding sources including federal military revenues, state general funds, and special revenue streams like veterans license plate fees. This appropriation act does not create new programs but authorizes existing department spending for staffing, operations, and capital maintenance.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 41 is a commemorative resolution that observes May 6-12, 2025, as National Nurses Week. It recognizes the contributions of registered nurses in the United States and Michigan, expressing gratitude for their work in healthcare and urging residents to do the same.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 244 mandates that physicians report patients to the Secretary of State if they have conditions causing "seizure experiences" that could jeopardize their ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. This changes the current law, which allows for voluntary reporting of other conditions affecting driving. Physicians making these reports are required to recommend a period of license suspension, such as at least 6 months for an operator's license, and are granted immunity from liability if they act in good faith and with due care. The bill directly affects physicians and patients with seizure-related conditions.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 29 designates April 20-26, 2025, as Infertility Awareness Week. This resolution aims to raise awareness about infertility and its impact on individuals and couples.