Sen. Kevin Hertel

Maddy summarySenate Bill 981 amends Michigan's General Sales Tax Act to clarify how trade-in values are treated when calculating sales tax on personal electronics. The bill explicitly includes the credit for any trade-in in the definition of 'sales price,' ensuring that the value of an old item traded in is counted as part of the taxable amount. This change directly affects consumers buying new electronics and retailers selling them, requiring the trade-in value to be included in the total consideration for tax purposes. The legislation focuses on defining specific terms like 'sales price' and 'gross proceeds' to ensure consistent application of the tax law.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates the week of May 10-16, 2026, as Police Week to honor law enforcement officers. The measure directly affects the Senate members and serves as a formal acknowledgment of police officers statewide and nationwide. It recognizes the sacrifices made by these public servants, particularly those who have died in the line of duty, and expresses gratitude for their service. The resolution does not change laws or allocate funds but instead establishes a commemorative period for reflection and salute.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 2026 as "Pure Michigan Month" to highlight the state's tourism brand. The measure directly affects the state legislature and serves as a formal recognition of the Pure Michigan campaign's success in promoting travel and economic growth. It acknowledges the campaign's role in generating billions in economic impact and supporting jobs across the state. The bill does not allocate funding or create new laws but rather celebrates the brand's achievements through a legislative designation.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 1, 2026, as International Workers' Day within the state. The measure honors the contributions of Michigan's workforce and commemorates the historical significance of the labor movement, including events like the Haymarket Affair and the Flint Sit-Down Strike. By adopting this resolution, the legislative body acknowledges the importance of workers' rights and the state's legacy in advancing economic and social justice.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates April 29, 2026, as "End Jew-Hatred Day" to formally recognize the Jewish community in Michigan. The measure directly affects the state legislature by adopting a symbolic declaration rather than enacting new laws or regulations. Key provisions include a statement condemning antisemitism and a call for unity among lawmakers to address discrimination against Jewish people. The resolution cites recent hate crimes and a specific synagogue attack as context for the observance. Ultimately, the bill serves as a commemorative gesture without altering existing legal frameworks or policies.

Maddy summarySB 758, the "Kids Code Act," establishes new rules for online platforms to protect children's safety and privacy. It prohibits major online services (with $25M+ annual revenue or 50k+ Michigan users) from using addictive design features like infinite scroll, auto-playing videos, or gamification that encourage excessive use by minors. The law requires platforms to verify a user's age when they have actual knowledge they are under 13 and restricts how they collect biometric data or use "dark patterns" that manipulate children. It directly affects large social media and app companies operating in Michigan with significant child users, while excluding platforms where over 98% of users are adults.

Maddy summaryThis bill allocates state funding to the Michigan Department of State Police for the fiscal year 2026-2027. It authorizes the expenditure of appropriated funds to support the department's operations and personnel during this period. The legislation establishes the financial framework for the department's budget without specifying individual line items. This measure directly impacts the department's ability to carry out its law enforcement duties with state resources.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 865 allocates state funding to Michigan's Department of Military and Veterans Affairs for the fiscal year 2026-2027. The bill establishes an appropriation act that authorizes the department to spend designated funds on its operations and programs during this period. It directly affects state military and veterans affairs agencies by providing the financial resources necessary to carry out their duties. The legislation follows standard budget procedures by being introduced, referred to a committee, and set for further legislative action.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 7) is a ceremonial recognition, not a law. It formally designates February 11, 2025, as "UAW White Shirt Day" to commemorate the 88th anniversary of the UAW's first contract with General Motors and honor the tradition started in 1948 where UAW members wear white shirts to symbolize equal respect for blue-collar workers. The resolution expresses the Senate's appreciation for the UAW's contributions to Michigan's workforce and economy. It has no legal effect or direct impact on any individuals or policies.

Maddy summarySB 626 amends Michigan's Child Protection Law to clarify key definitions related to the state's central registry for child abuse and neglect cases. It updates terms like "central registry case" (confirming abuse/neglect involving serious harm, sexual abuse, or methamphetamine exposure) and "confirmed serious abuse or neglect" to improve documentation accuracy. These changes directly affect child protective services workers, the Department of Health and Human Services, and individuals reporting suspected abuse through the statewide electronic system. The bill focuses on refining existing registry procedures rather than creating new programs, aiming to standardize case documentation for consistency in handling reports.