Sen. Michele Hoitenga

Maddy summaryThis bill designates February 1 of each year as "Blue Star Mothers Day" in Michigan to honor the organization Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc. The legislation recognizes the group's long-standing work supporting military families, including welcoming veterans home and caring for mothers of service members. By officially naming this date, the state acknowledges the contributions of the organization without changing any laws or requiring specific actions from individuals. The act takes effect 90 days after it is signed into law.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates June 27, 2024, as Post-Traumatic Stress Injury Awareness Day in Michigan. The measure directly honors military service members, veterans, and first responders who face high risks of PTSI due to their dangerous work. It urges state agencies to continue educating the public about the causes, symptoms, and treatments of PTSI. The resolution also directs a copy of the text to the Governor.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Michigan's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to protect the licensing status of authorized agents who sell hunting and fishing licenses. Under the new provision, the Department of Natural Resources cannot refuse to renew an agent's authorization solely because they did not meet a specific sales volume, provided they have held the authorization for at least five years and sold at least $1,000 worth of licenses or permits in the previous year. The change directly affects long-term agents who may have experienced a decline in sales due to market conditions or other factors, ensuring their licenses are not lost based on revenue thresholds alone.

Maddy summaryThis bill repeals the section of Michigan's Clean and Renewable Energy and Energy Waste Reduction Act that established wind energy resource zones and related expedited siting procedures. By removing these provisions, the legislation effectively ends the special zoning exemptions and streamlined approval processes previously available for large-scale solar, wind, and energy storage facilities. The bill also amends the act's title and definitions but relies on a companion bill to take effect. Ultimately, this measure reverses specific policy changes that allowed for faster development of renewable energy projects by eliminating the designated wind zones.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Michigan's zoning enabling act to remove a specific provision that previously required local zoning ordinances to comply with Part 8 of the Clean and Renewable Energy and Energy Waste Reduction Act. By deleting this requirement, the legislation allows local governments to regulate land use for renewable energy projects without being bound by those specific state-level clean energy standards. The bill also includes other changes to zoning rules regarding oil and gas wells, mining operations, and the protection of renewable energy projects that received special approval after January 1, 2021. However, the entire measure is tied to another bill, SB 0898, meaning it will not take effect unless that companion legislation is also passed into law.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Michigan's Public Health Code to clarify definitions and requirements for individuals working as emergency medical services personnel, such as paramedics and emergency medical technicians. It mandates that education program sponsors must inform students if their training programs lack specific accreditation before they begin paramedic courses. Additionally, the law requires that all licensing examinations for these roles be administered by nationally recognized organizations approved by the state department. These changes aim to standardize training quality and ensure clear communication about program credentials for those seeking licensure.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates May 2024 as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Awareness Month to highlight the condition and encourage public understanding. The bill focuses on raising awareness for a genetic disorder that affects connective tissues, causing symptoms such as joint instability, skin bruising, and digestive issues. By establishing this awareness month, the legislation aims to support those living with EDS and promote further medical research and funding. The resolution does not create new laws or funding but serves as a symbolic gesture to honor patients and advocate for scientific study.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a concurrent resolution that formally honors the memory of Michael L. Green, a former Michigan state representative and senator who recently passed away. It recognizes his long public service career, including his work in Tuscola County and his legislative roles in both the House and Senate, while noting his personal history and community involvement. The resolution expresses the legislature's tribute to him and directs that copies of the document be sent to his family as a sign of respect.