Sen. Stephanie Chang

Maddy summarySB 768 prohibits gas, electric, and steam utilities from filing a new rate case (requesting rate increases) sooner than three years after their previous rate case. This amendment to Michigan's Public Utilities Act (MCL 460.6a) directly affects all utilities regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission when seeking rate adjustments. The key mechanism adds a mandatory three-year waiting period between full rate case filings, preventing utilities from repeatedly seeking rate changes too frequently. It does not change existing processes for partial rate relief or other rate adjustments. The bill aims to stabilize utility rate-setting timelines without altering current hearing requirements or refund procedures.

Maddy summarySB 372 allows landlords to reuse tenant screening reports prepared by prospective tenants within the previous 45 days, reducing costs for renters. Landlords who accept these reusable reports cannot charge a rental application fee, while those who decline may charge up to $25 only if they first disclose all screening criteria in writing. The bill requires landlords advertising rentals to state whether they accept reusable screening reports. It directly affects prospective tenants (who pay less for applications) and landlords (who must adjust their screening processes and fee structures). The bill amends Michigan's Landlord and Tenant Act to streamline screening and limit fees.

Maddy summarySB 374 changes Michigan's eviction court record rules to help tenants by making it easier to seal or remove their records. It requires courts to seal eviction records until a judgment for possession is entered and allows sealing after judgment if the tenant vacated before the case, received emergency rental assistance, or owed less than $900 in rent. The bill automatically removes (expunges) records three years after a judgment becomes final and restricts access to sealed records - only allowing limited release for scholarly, educational, or legal purposes with court approval. This directly affects tenants in eviction cases and landlords who might otherwise use sealed records to deny housing.

Maddy summarySB 375 amends Michigan's Truth in Renting Act to clarify that "rent" includes essential services like heat, water, electricity, and pest control provided by landlords. It prohibits landlords from charging unreasonable fees, such as late fees exceeding $30 or 3% of rent, fees for non-renewal notices beyond one month, or fees for third-party services. The bill also requires rental agreements to include specific terms like tenant/landlord names, property description, rent amount, and payment schedule. These changes directly affect Michigan tenants and landlords by increasing transparency and preventing unfair financial burdens.

Maddy summarySB 806 creates a dedicated "hyperbaric oxygen therapy inspection fund" in the state treasury, funded by licensing fees paid by freestanding hyperbaric oxygen therapy facilities. The fund is managed by the state treasurer and administered by the state health department, with all money used solely for inspecting these facilities. This bill directly affects hyperbaric oxygen therapy providers and the state's inspection process for their facilities. The fund ensures consistent, dedicated funding for inspections, replacing general appropriations for this specific purpose.

Maddy summarySB 803 creates a new licensure requirement for freestanding facilities that provide hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), a medical treatment using pressurized oxygen. It directly affects businesses operating standalone HBOT centers and patients receiving this therapy by establishing specific safety and operational standards. The bill amends Michigan's Public Health Code to add licensing rules for these facilities, ensuring they meet state health and safety criteria. This change applies to facilities not located within hospitals, requiring them to obtain state licensure before operation.

Maddy summarySB 804 adds new licensing requirements for freestanding hyperbaric oxygen therapy facilities in Michigan, directly affecting these specialized treatment centers. The bill requires facilities to appoint a medical director and safety coordinator, comply with national fire safety standards (NFPA 99), and ensure staff meet specific licensing qualifications. It defines key terms like "accreditation organization" and "qualified health professional" to establish clear operational standards. The legislation is contingent on three related bills (SB 803, 805, 806) also being enacted.

Maddy summarySB 805 establishes licensing requirements for standalone hyperbaric oxygen therapy clinics in Michigan. It mandates that these facilities obtain state licensure, appoint a qualified medical director and safety coordinator, comply with NFPA 99 safety standards, and meet FDA-approved treatment protocols. Clinics must display their license/permit and accreditation publicly, provide patients with clear information about treatment risks, FDA-approved uses, and insurance coverage limitations, and obtain written consent before treatment. The bill directly affects clinic operators, healthcare providers, and patients receiving hyperbaric oxygen therapy, ensuring standardized safety and transparency.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates a specific segment of M-22 in Leelanau County as the "Company K Indian Veterans 1st Michigan Sharpshooters Civil War Memorial Highway." The designated portion begins at the intersection of M-22 and North Stallman Road and runs north to the intersection of M-22 and North Putnam Road. It amends Michigan's Memorial Highway Act to formally name this highway section in honor of the Civil War unit, with no changes to road infrastructure or policy.

Maddy summarySB 780 prohibits state and local law enforcement agencies in Michigan from entering into, modifying, or renewing federal immigration enforcement agreements under Section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. It directly affects the Michigan State Police and all city, village, township, and county police departments. The bill’s key provision bans these specific agreements starting on its effective date, preventing local police from collaborating with federal immigration authorities on enforcement. This policy change shifts local law enforcement focus away from federal immigration enforcement partnerships.