Sen. Jonathan Lindsey

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the Michigan Department of Education to create and distribute a model firearm safety program for students in grades 6 through 12 by June 1, 2025. The curriculum must cover topics such as proper handling, maintenance, storage, and hunting practices, totaling at least 10 hours of instruction led by certified hunter education instructors. While schools can offer this as an optional class or integrate it into existing courses, firearms and ammunition are strictly prohibited from being brought onto school property during these sessions. Additionally, the bill ensures that any student or their parent can request an exemption from the course without penalty or loss of academic credit. Finally, completing this instruction satisfies the state's hunter safety course requirement for obtaining a hunting license.

Maddy summarySB 1103 strengthens protections for veterans and their families by restricting who can charge fees for help with veterans' benefit claims. The bill prohibits unaccredited individuals from receiving compensation unless they sign a written agreement that limits fees to a percentage of any benefit increase and bans upfront or nonrefundable charges. It also requires these providers to clearly disclose that they are not government employees, warn that benefits are not guaranteed, and ensure that veterans' personal data is not processed through international call centers or used for accessing sensitive medical and financial records. Additionally, the law mandates that advertisements for veterans' benefit seminars must include prominent, standardized language stating that the event is not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs or other recognized organizations. These rules apply to private companies and individuals but exempt government officials acting in their official capacity and accredited attorneys.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes adding a new rule to the state legislature's joint rules to create a specific process called a "Joint Convention on the Presidential Election." It would allow both the House and Senate to meet together if there is a dispute about whether Michigan's presidential electors were properly chosen according to state law. The rule outlines how the joint session would be called, how members would vote to confirm or reject the current electors, and how a new slate of electors could be selected if the initial election is found invalid. If a new slate is chosen, the legislature would issue a formal certificate to appoint them and send the necessary documents to federal officials before the electors meet in December. This procedural change directly affects the Michigan State Senate and House of Representatives by establishing a backup mechanism for resolving presidential election disputes.

Maddy summarySB 1034 modifies Michigan election laws to require voters to present identification and proof of state residency before receiving a ballot. If a voter cannot provide these documents, they must sign an affidavit and submit a provisional ballot that will be verified after the election rather than counted immediately. The bill also clarifies procedures for voters who arrive at a polling place without being on the registration list, requiring them to complete an application and swear they have already applied to vote. Specific acceptable documents for identity include birth certificates and military discharge papers, while proof of residency can include utility bills, bank statements, or lease agreements issued within the last 90 days. These changes directly affect all registered and unregistered electors participating in state elections.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a memorial resolution honoring Nancy C. Cassis, a former Michigan legislator who served in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. It recognizes her career as a public servant and details her legislative achievements, including her work on tax policy and her receipt of various awards. The resolution formally expresses the legislature's condolences to her family and requests that copies of the document be sent to them as a tribute.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates a specific stretch of M-34 in Hillsdale County as the "Deputy Sheriff William Butler, Jr. Memorial Highway." The change officially names the road segment between Pioneer Road and South Pittsford Road to honor Deputy Sheriff Butler. By adding this section to the Michigan Memorial Highway Act, the legislation ensures the location is recognized with a permanent memorial title.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the cherry as the official fruit of Michigan. It achieves this by amending state law to formally recognize the cherry in this capacity. The change is symbolic and does not alter any existing regulations or create new legal obligations.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes changes to Michigan's sentencing guidelines specifically for crimes involving the deprivation of certain individual rights. By amending an existing section of the state's criminal procedure code, it aims to update how judges determine punishments in these specific cases. The legislation is currently being reviewed by a state committee and does not yet establish new penalties or alter current laws.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new crime for anyone acting in an official capacity who intentionally denies individuals their legal rights or subjects them to unequal treatment under the law. The provision establishes three levels of punishment based on the severity of the violation, ranging from a misdemeanor for minor infractions to a felony with potential life imprisonment for cases involving death, kidnapping, sexual conduct, or murder. It applies to government officials or others exercising legal authority who willfully deprive people of rights protected by the U.S. Constitution, the state constitution, or state and federal laws. The bill takes effect 90 days after it is signed into law.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Michigan election laws to establish stricter standards for electronic voting machines and their maintenance. It requires all new voting systems to be manufactured in the United States and mandates that machines include specific features like paper ballots, audit trails, and accessibility tools for voters with disabilities. Additionally, the legislation introduces a certification process where vendors must pay fees and submit detailed performance data and maintenance contracts to the Secretary of State for approval. Local election officials are also instructed to ensure every polling place has at least one accessible voting device for use by individuals with disabilities.