Sen. Rosemary Bayer

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Michigan's rules for electric utilities seeking permission to build major new transmission lines. It requires companies to send detailed, plain-language notices by mail and in local newspapers to all municipalities and landowners near proposed routes, including maps and contact information for public comment. The legislation also grants affected landowners and municipalities full legal standing to participate in the review process and sets a one-year deadline for the state commission to approve or deny applications. Additionally, the bill mandates that if a project is not started within five years of approval, the permit becomes invalid.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurers in Michigan to cover infertility treatments starting in 2027, affecting all individuals with health insurance policies issued or renewed in the state. The legislation mandates comprehensive coverage for diagnostic care, fertility treatments, and preservation services, including at least four complete egg retrievals with unlimited embryo transfers and costs associated with transferring embryos to a third party. Insurers must provide these benefits without discrimination based on various personal characteristics and cannot impose higher deductibles, waiting periods, or preexisting condition exclusions specifically for infertility services. The law defines infertility broadly to include conditions impacting pregnancy ability and situations where individuals lack the necessary gametes, while also clarifying that coverage applies regardless of whether donor gametes are used or if a surrogate is involved.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 932 requires electric utilities and transmission companies in Michigan to hold public meetings in every municipality through which a proposed major transmission line would pass before applying for a certificate to build it. The bill mandates that companies provide detailed written notice to affected landowners and municipalities at least 15 days in advance, including maps of proposed routes and contact information for a dedicated representative. Additionally, the legislation requires utilities to make meeting materials available online, allow landowners to submit comments and route suggestions via a website, and document how they consider and respond to any substantive landowner requests.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows electric utilities and other infrastructure providers to build and maintain electronic transmission lines within existing highway rights-of-way without needing separate consent from local governments. It establishes a fee structure for using these spaces, caps permit fees at $1,000 per mile, and requires that any installed lines be underground to avoid increasing road maintenance costs. Additionally, the legislation mandates that the state transportation department share future road plans with utility developers and provide a five-year notice before requiring the relocation of high-voltage transmission lines.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a dedicated state fund to support Michigan's 988 crisis lifeline system, which provides suicide prevention and mental health crisis services. It establishes a new telecommunications fee of 25 cents per month on landline and mobile phone lines, as well as a 6% fee on prepaid phone purchases, to generate revenue for this fund. The collected fees must be used to improve the crisis hotline infrastructure, expand crisis services, and fund stabilization programs, while ensuring these funds supplement rather than replace existing state or federal grants. Additionally, the bill requires the state treasurer to adjust the monthly fee annually based on inflation and mandates regular audits to ensure phone companies collect and remit the fees correctly.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes adding a new section to the Michigan state constitution to formally recognize the public's right to a clean environment and to establish the state as a trustee for natural resources. It directly affects all residents by guaranteeing access to clean water, air, soil, and balanced ecosystems while requiring the government to protect these rights fairly for everyone regardless of their background. The key provisions declare that natural resources belong to all people, including future generations, and give citizens the power to directly sue the state if these rights are violated. By embedding these principles into the constitution, the bill creates a permanent legal framework that prioritizes environmental conservation and accountability for state agencies.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurance plans in Michigan to count payments made by patients or on their behalf toward meeting out-of-pocket maximums and cost-sharing limits for prescription drugs. It applies to both standard plans and high-deductible health plans, though it includes a specific rule for high-deductible plans to ensure compliance with federal health savings account regulations. The law takes effect for policies delivered, issued, or renewed after December 31, 2025, and explicitly defers to federal law if any conflict arises.

Maddy summarySB 481 requires hotels and motels in Michigan to post a human trafficking notice on their premises. This law directly affects all lodging businesses (including motels, inns, and similar properties) that provide temporary accommodations to travelers. The bill amends existing law to mandate that these properties display the notice in a specified manner as directed by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

Maddy summarySB 413 modifies requirements for psychologists seeking a "limited license" to practice in Michigan. It changes specific sections of state law governing health occupations, adjusting the qualifications and scope of practice for these limited licensed psychologists. The bill directly affects psychologists who currently hold or seek this restricted license, potentially altering how they can provide services under supervision. These changes aim to update licensing standards while maintaining oversight of this practice category.

Maddy summarySB 463 removes criminal penalties and civil fines for minors (under 18) who purchase, possess, or use tobacco products, vapor products, or alternative nicotine products. The bill eliminates existing legal consequences for these minor offenses, shifting focus away from punishment. It directly affects underage individuals by ending enforcement of penalties under current law (MCL 722.642). The key provision is a "sunset" of these penalties, meaning they would no longer apply once the bill takes effect.