Sen. Rick Outman

Maddy summarySB 935 amends the Mobile Home Commission Act to update how mobile home parks are regulated in Michigan. The bill requires the state department to conduct annual inspections of these parks and share results with local governments and lenders if problems are found. It also clarifies rules for granting variances to construction standards, sets limits on reinspection fees, and defines the training requirements for mobile home installers. Additionally, the legislation reinforces prohibitions against unfair practices, such as charging exit fees or forcing residents to buy homes as a condition of renting a space.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a state income tax credit for owners of mobile home parks who sell their property to current residents or resident associations starting in 2026. To receive the credit, which equals 15% of the sale price, the seller must submit proof that they provided required notice to potential buyers and include the final settlement statement with their tax return. The credit can be claimed by individual owners or by members of flow-through entities that own the park, but any unused portion of the credit cannot be refunded. The legislation also clarifies that the credit only applies to sales made to people already living in the park or to their governing cooperative.

Maddy summarySB 969 expands the definition of "covered facilities" in Michigan's public health code to include hospitals that provide swing bed services, in addition to existing nursing homes and similar institutions. This change ensures that these additional hospitals must adhere to the same strict rules regarding the employment and clinical privileges of staff who have direct access to patients. The bill requires facilities to conduct criminal history checks on new employees and prohibits hiring individuals with specific convictions related to violence, abuse, fraud, or drug offenses within certain timeframes. By including swing bed hospitals, the legislation aims to maintain consistent safety standards across a broader range of healthcare settings that care for vulnerable populations.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates April 29, 2026, as "End Jew-Hatred Day" to formally recognize the Jewish community in Michigan. The measure directly affects the state legislature by adopting a symbolic declaration rather than enacting new laws or regulations. Key provisions include a statement condemning antisemitism and a call for unity among lawmakers to address discrimination against Jewish people. The resolution cites recent hate crimes and a specific synagogue attack as context for the observance. Ultimately, the bill serves as a commemorative gesture without altering existing legal frameworks or policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to increase the number of circuit court judges in Kent County from ten to eleven. The change would take effect on January 1, 2027, and is authorized under the state's Revised Judicature Act. By adding a judge, the legislation aims to adjust the court's staffing levels for the specific judicial circuit that includes Kent County.

Maddy summaryThis bill increases the annual allocation for administrative expenses in Michigan's Farm Produce Insurance Fund from $500,000 to $950,000. The change directly affects the fund's management by allowing more money to cover operational costs such as premium refunds, enforcement, record-keeping, and other approved expenses. The bill does not alter the fund's existing investment rules or claim payment procedures, but it updates the specific dollar limit for administrative spending. This adjustment is intended to provide greater financial flexibility for the board managing the insurance program.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors the memory of Joel Gougeon, a former Michigan State Senator who passed away, by formally recognizing his life and public service. The bill does not change any laws or policies but serves as an official tribute to Gougeon's career, military service, and community contributions. It directs copies of the resolution to the Gougeon family as a formal acknowledgment of his legacy. The measure was introduced by Senator Brinks and adopted by the full Senate membership.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates March 2026 as Agriculture Appreciation Month to recognize Michigan's significant agricultural contributions to the state's economy and workforce. The bill does not create new laws or regulations but serves as a symbolic gesture to highlight the industry's importance, noting that agriculture supports over 800,000 jobs and contributes more than $125 billion annually to Michigan. The resolution encourages citizens to celebrate the sector during March 2026, acknowledging the state's leadership in various agricultural products like tart cherries, blueberries, and hops.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a concurrent resolution that formally honors Bruce Patterson, a former Michigan state legislator who served in both the House of Representatives and Senate. It recognizes his public service career, which included leadership roles in committees on energy policy, environmental protection, and consumer rights, as well as his advocacy for nursing home care and water pollution control. The resolution expresses the Legislature's tribute to his memory and directs that copies be sent to his family.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows nurse practitioners to determine disability status for individuals seeking parking placards in Michigan, expanding the list of medical professionals authorized to certify disabilities. The legislation amends existing vehicle code sections to include nurse practitioners alongside physicians, physician assistants, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and optometrists as qualified providers for disability determinations. It does not change the specific medical criteria for qualifying disabilities or the rules governing parking placards, but rather broadens who can officially verify that a person meets those criteria. The bill affects disabled individuals who need parking accommodations and healthcare providers who may issue these certifications.