Sen. Sylvia Santana

Maddy summaryThis bill expands Michigan's existing breastfeeding protections to explicitly include the expression of human milk, such as pumping breast milk in public spaces. It prohibits businesses and public service providers from denying access or displaying signs that discourage individuals from breastfeeding or expressing milk. The law applies to any place of public accommodation or public service, ensuring that these activities are treated with the same non-discriminatory standards as actual breastfeeding.

Maddy summarySB 791 amends Michigan's public employee collective bargaining law to update definitions and election rules. The bill clarifies who counts as a "public employee" by explicitly including graduate research assistants while excluding private contractors and student-athletes. It also establishes that union elections cannot be held within 12 months of a previous valid election and requires a runoff if no candidate receives a majority vote. Additionally, the legislation prevents elections from being organized if a collective bargaining agreement is still in effect, unless more than three years have passed since the agreement was signed. These changes directly affect public sector unions, employers, and the state's employment relations commission.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates October 2024 as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month to highlight the prevalence and impact of non-cancerous uterine growths. The measure directly affects women across the United States, particularly noting that the condition disproportionately impacts women of color and can lead to severe health issues, infertility, and significant economic costs. While the bill does not change laws or allocate funding, it formally acknowledges the condition's challenges and urges greater research, data collection, and improved care options for patients.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates the period from September 15 to October 15, 2024, as Hispanic Heritage Month within the state of Michigan. The measure formally recognizes the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors originate from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. By adopting this designation, the legislative body acknowledges the significant economic, social, and cultural impact of the Hispanic and Latino community in Michigan. The resolution serves as an official proclamation to encourage the celebration of this heritage through various programs and events during the specified timeframe.

Maddy summaryThis bill increases death and disability benefits for Michigan public safety officers who are injured or killed while performing their duties. Starting October 1, 2024, the state will pay $50,000 to the officer's surviving spouse or dependents, or to their estate if no family members exist, whereas claims paid before that date will receive $25,000. The additional payment is intended to be given on top of any other benefits the family may already receive. The law applies retroactively to any benefit applications that were pending on or after the October 1, 2024 effective date.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally recognizes October 2024 as Health Literacy Month to raise awareness about the importance of understanding health information. The bill highlights that limited health literacy significantly impacts public health outcomes and costs the healthcare system billions annually, affecting people across all demographics. It encourages the general public and Michigan organizations to focus on education and the use of clear, plain language to help individuals make informed health decisions.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially recognizes September 26, 2024, as World Contraception Day within the Michigan legislative body. The measure is sponsored by Senator Sarah Anthony and serves to acknowledge the importance of access to contraception for individuals in the state. While the bill does not alter any laws or funding, it formally adopts a date to honor contraception as a critical healthcare tool that supports personal autonomy and public health.

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 Senate resolution commemorates the 175th anniversary of Eastern Michigan University, recognizing its historical significance as the first institution west of the Allegheny Mountains dedicated to teacher education. The bill highlights the university's legacy of advancing equity by admitting both men and women regardless of race and its long-standing contributions to special education and community development in Ypsilanti. By formally acknowledging these achievements, the resolution honors EMU's evolution from a normal school to a comprehensive research university while encouraging its continued excellence.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes rules for parking in designated electric vehicle charging spaces by defining what constitutes an electric vehicle parking space and the equipment used to charge vehicles. It prohibits stopping, standing, or parking in these marked spaces unless the vehicle is actively plugged in, while requiring space owners to post clear signs detailing the restriction, time limits, and potential fines. The legislation applies only to public charging spaces and allows local governments to create similar laws that do not conflict with state rules. Additionally, the bill updates existing parking violation procedures to ensure that registered vehicle owners can be held responsible for parking infractions and have the right to seek reimbursement from the actual driver if they were not authorized to operate the vehicle.