Sen. John Cherry

Maddy summarySB 465 would require retailers to obtain a license to sell nicotine or tobacco products at retail in Michigan, directly affecting stores and businesses selling these items. The bill creates temporary exemptions for certain sales, such as limited-time promotions or specific product types, while establishing the licensing requirement. It amends existing state law (MCL 722.641-722.645) by adding a new section to formalize these rules. The bill is currently in committee review after being reported favorably with a substitute amendment.

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 128 establishes the Michigan-Ireland Trade Commission to promote economic partnerships between Michigan businesses and Ireland. The bill creates a new state commission tasked with coordinating trade promotion activities, facilitating business connections, and supporting export opportunities for Michigan companies targeting the Irish market. This commission will operate under state agency oversight and directly affect Michigan businesses engaged in international trade with Ireland. The bill does not impose new taxes or regulations but creates a dedicated entity to advance bilateral trade relations.

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.

Maddy summarySB 714 amends Michigan's sports betting law to regulate advertising and promotions for internet gaming. It requires all sports betting ads to be pre-approved by the state board and prohibits advertising to anyone under 21, limiting ads to audiences where under 21s make up no more than 30% of viewers/readers. The bill also bans deceptive claims, mandates disclaimers about gambling addiction helplines, and prohibits sponsorships targeting minors (with limited exceptions for venues or channels). Violations carry fines up to $5,000 for repeat offenses or license revocation for third violations. These rules apply directly to sports betting operators and their marketing efforts.

Maddy summarySB 713 regulates advertisements for internet gaming in Michigan by requiring all ads to be approved by the state board and comply with state law. It bans deceptive marketing, prohibits advertising to anyone under 21 (with strict proof that under 30% of an ad's audience is under 21), and mandates addiction disclaimers with a helpline number. Internet gaming operators face fines up to $5,000 for first violations and license revocation for repeat offenses. The bill directly affects online gaming companies and advertisers, while allowing municipalities to set reasonable sign restrictions that don’t conflict with the law.

Maddy summarySCR 8 is a memorial resolution honoring Irma Clark-Coleman, a former Michigan state legislator who served in the House (1999-2002) and Senate (2003-2010). The resolution recognizes her decades of public service at both local (Wayne County) and state levels, including her advocacy for education reform and legislative work on children’s issues. Unanimously adopted by the Michigan Legislature in December 2025, it serves as a formal tribute to her legacy and does not enact any policy changes.

Maddy summarySB 532 creates special vehicle registration plates for Michigan military members, including current National Guard members, U.S. Armed Forces Reserve members, and honorably discharged veterans (including those who retired or received honorable discharges). Applicants must provide proof of service, and the plates feature a special design with "national guard" or "armed forces" wording, issued at no service fee. The plates expire on the vehicle owner’s birthday, and renewal requires no additional fee. This law directly affects eligible military members and their vehicles, expanding access beyond current plate categories.

Maddy summarySB 715 amends Michigan’s Strategic Fund Act to require the Michigan Strategic Fund to comply with the federal Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) when making investments. This means the fund cannot use state money to support economic development projects involving goods produced using forced labor from Xinjiang, China. The bill directly affects the Michigan Strategic Fund (which manages state economic development grants) and businesses receiving those funds. It adds a new requirement (Section 7c) to prevent state resources from indirectly supporting forced labor, aligning with federal law. The bill is currently pending review in the Senate Finance Committee.