Sen. Kevin Hertel

Maddy summarySB 513 amends Michigan's liquor law by changing the legal definition of "brand" under Section 105 of the 1998 Liquor Code (MCL 436.1105) and adds a new Section 604. This directly affects liquor businesses, distributors, and regulators by clarifying how "brand" is legally defined in licensing and regulatory contexts. The bill does not create new taxes or restrictions but adjusts terminology to align with current industry practices. It passed unanimously in the legislature on December 2, 2025, with no opposing votes. (Note: The bill is procedural, focusing solely on statutory definition, not new policy.)

Maddy summarySB 95 (the "hospital price transparency act") prohibits hospitals from attempting to collect debts for services provided when they were not complying with state price transparency laws. It specifically bans hospitals from using debt collectors, suing patients, or reporting debts to credit bureaus for care received during non-compliance periods. The bill directly affects hospitals that fail to publicly list prices for services (like "chargemaster" rates) and patients who received care during those violations. Key provisions define "collection actions" and clarify that hospitals cannot pursue payment for non-compliant billing periods, offering patients remedies if hospitals attempt collection anyway.

Maddy summarySB 512 amends multiple sections of Michigan's liquor distribution laws (1998 PA 58), including provisions related to licensing, distribution channels, and retailer operations. It directly affects liquor distributors, retailers, and potentially consumers by modifying existing regulatory rules. The bill adds a new section (412) and updates specific sections (105, 303, 526, 607, 609b, 1025), though the context does not detail the exact policy changes. The bill passed the legislature on December 2, 2025, with 37 votes in favor.

Maddy summarySB 483 creates a palliative care advisory task force within Michigan's health department. The task force will study current palliative care services and make recommendations to improve access and quality for patients facing serious illness. This affects Michigan's healthcare system by establishing a new body to address gaps in end-of-life care services.

Maddy summaryThis is a memorial resolution honoring Donald Koivisto, a former Michigan State Senator (1990-2002) and House Representative (1981-1986). The resolution expresses the legislature's tribute to his service, highlighting his dedication to the Upper Peninsula, farming community, and bipartisan collaboration. It was unanimously adopted by both chambers as a formal expression of respect for his legacy. The resolution has no policy impact - it solely commemorates his public service.

Maddy summarySB 612 eliminates the requirement for victims to pay costs when courts deliver personal protection orders. It directly affects individuals seeking court-issued protection from domestic violence or abuse. The bill removes a financial barrier by changing court procedures so victims no longer cover the expenses for serving these protective orders. This is a procedural change to Michigan's civil court rules, shifting the cost responsibility from victims to the court system.

Maddy summarySB 611 eliminates court costs for serving personal protection orders in Michigan. It directly affects individuals seeking protection from domestic violence, harassment, or abuse who must legally serve court orders on others. The bill amends Michigan’s civil procedure laws (MCL 600.2559 & 600.2950) to remove the requirement that these individuals pay fees for process servers. This change simplifies access to legal protection by removing a financial barrier for vulnerable residents.

Maddy summarySB 540 creates a new state program providing child care reimbursement to Michigan National Guard members. It directly affects Guard members who need child care while performing military duties, such as training or deployments. The bill establishes a formal reimbursement system to help offset these costs, though specific eligibility details or funding amounts aren't provided in the context. The bill passed the House on December 2, 2025, and was presented to the governor for approval.

Maddy summarySB 719 amends Michigan's "Uniform Video Services Local Franchise Act" to clarify the definition of "video service." It explicitly includes internet protocol television (IPTV) and "open video systems" (OVS) while excluding direct-to-home satellite services, mobile video, and internet streaming content. The bill also updates the definition of "low-income household" to mean a household with annual income below $35,000. This is a definitional amendment affecting how video service providers and local governments interpret the law, not a new policy or fee structure.

Maddy summarySB 720 amends Michigan's video services reporting rules to clarify requirements for providers and the Communications Commission. It requires video service providers (like cable or streaming companies) to submit specific business information - such as their name, service description, and contact details - to the Commission when first offering services in Michigan, and to update this information for changes like mergers or name changes. The bill also mandates that the Commission file an annual report with the governor and legislature by April 1st each year, detailing video service competition status and legislative recommendations. These changes streamline reporting obligations for providers and standardize the Commission's annual review process.