Maddy summarySB 380 modifies Michigan's teacher tenure rules to clarify how probationary teachers (new teachers) achieve tenure and how performance evaluations affect both probationary and tenured teachers. It requires probationary teachers to earn "effective" or "highly effective" ratings on their most recent three year-end evaluations (with specific timelines: 5 years before July 1, 2024, and 4 years after) to complete their probationary period. For tenured teachers rated "ineffective" or "minimally effective," the bill mandates an individualized development plan with clear goals, to be completed within 180 days. The bill directly affects public school teachers in Michigan, particularly new educators seeking tenure and existing tenured teachers needing performance support.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summarySB 408 amends Michigan's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to update language regarding firearm restrictions in wildlife areas. It clarifies that existing exceptions for concealed pistol license holders (under MCL 28.421-28.435) and authorized carry under specific statutes (MCL 28.432a, 750.227, etc.) remain valid when transporting or carrying firearms in areas frequented by wild animals. The bill does not change general requirements for hunters or alter laws governing wildlife hunting; it only updates the legal text to reflect current concealed carry provisions. This affects hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone carrying firearms in Michigan's natural areas.
Maddy summarySB 409 updates outdated references in Michigan's criminal procedure code related to firearm sentencing. It amends specific sections (MCL 769.12, 777.11b, and 777.16m) to correct legal citations, ensuring consistency in how firearm-related sentencing guidelines are referenced. This procedural update directly affects courts, prosecutors, and legal professionals who apply these sections when handling firearm cases. The bill does not change sentencing rules or penalties, only modernizing the code's references for clarity.
Maddy summarySB 410 updates references in Michigan’s Corrections Code to reflect current law. It amends Section 33b of the 1953 Corrections Code (MCL 791.233b) by replacing outdated citations to specific sections of the Michigan Penal Code and Public Health Code with their current, amended versions. This technical correction does not change parole eligibility rules or who is affected - prisoners convicted of the listed violent crimes (e.g., assault, sexual offenses, certain firearms violations) remain ineligible for parole under the existing provisions. The bill only ensures the law references accurate, current statutes, not policy changes. It is a procedural update dependent on another bill (SB 406) passing.
Maddy summarySB 407 updates statutory references in Michigan's 1927 firearms law (MCL 28.422 et seq.) by amending specific sections (2, 2a, 5b, 5o, 12, and 15) to reflect current legal citations. It does not change firearm possession, licensing, or sales requirements but ensures the law accurately references existing statutes. This technical update aligns the 1927 law with current code sections amended by recent legislation (e.g., 2023 PA 37, 2023 PA 19). The bill affects no new groups or policies - it solely corrects outdated references in the existing legal framework.
Maddy summarySB 376 requires Michigan's Department of Education to approve reading assessments for K-3 students and establish literacy coaches to improve early reading instruction. It mandates that school districts implement literacy coaches with specific qualifications (e.g., bachelor's degree in reading, expertise in evidence-based methods) by 2027-2028, focusing on screening, data analysis, and targeted interventions for students struggling with reading. The bill also directs the department to develop dyslexia expertise and update resources by 2025, with technical assistance for schools. This directly affects K-3 teachers, students with reading difficulties, and school districts implementing the new requirements. The policy aims to prevent reading deficiencies through structured literacy support, not grade retention.
Maddy summarySB 377 amends Michigan's high school graduation requirements under the Revised School Code. It requires students to complete specific credit bundles, including 4 math credits (with new flexibility to fulfill some through career-technical education programs like computer science or engineering), 3 social science credits (covering U.S. history, world history, economics, and civics), and visual arts/performing arts credits. The bill directly affects all Michigan public high school students seeking diplomas by changing their course requirements. Key mechanisms include allowing career-technical education programs to count toward math credits and specifying exact social science course requirements.
Maddy summaryThis Michigan bill amends labor law to prohibit public school districts from negotiating with teacher unions about 16 specific topics, including school calendars, staffing decisions, performance evaluations, and classroom observation policies. It directly affects school districts and their employee unions by restricting collective bargaining to only wages, hours, and basic working conditions. Key provisions add these topics to a formal list of "prohibited subjects" in bargaining agreements, meaning schools cannot discuss them during contract negotiations. The bill clarifies that operational decisions like school schedules (for state aid eligibility) and staffing reductions remain the sole responsibility of school districts.
Maddy summarySenate Concurrent Resolution 5 is a memorial resolution honoring the life and public service of Darwin Booher, a former member of both the Michigan Senate and House of Representatives. The resolution offers tribute to his contributions and transmits copies to his family.
Maddy summarySenate Bill 325 amends existing laws concerning how public utilities, including gas, electric, and steam providers, can adjust their rates for customers. It outlines the process for utilities to file rate increase requests with the Public Service Commission (PSC), requiring them to provide supporting evidence and allowing for public notice and hearings. The bill sets timelines for the PSC to review these applications and allows certain gas utilities to seek partial, immediate rate relief. A key change is the elimination of a provision that previously allowed utilities to implement proposed rate increases after 180 days if the PSC had not issued a final order, as this specific mechanism now only applies to applications filed before April 20, 2017.