Sen. Ed McBroom

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Michigan's education savings program to expand "qualified higher education expenses" to include K-12 tuition at public, private, or religious schools. It directly affects Michigan families using the state's education savings accounts who wish to cover K-12 tuition costs. The key provision changes the definition in the program's law to explicitly include tuition expenses for elementary and secondary schools, aligning with IRS Section 529(c)(7). This allows account owners to withdraw funds for K-12 education without penalty, matching the current treatment for higher education expenses under federal law. The amendment applies to all accounts established under the Michigan Education Savings Program Act.

Maddy summarySB 369 requires Michigan's Public Service Commission to create an online tool by December 31, 2026, that calculates the full lifetime cost of renewable energy projects for customers. The tool must include construction costs (like site prep, materials, grid connection) and end-of-life costs (decommissioning, disposal, site cleanup) for renewable energy systems. It directly affects utility customers by making these costs transparent over the system's operating lifetime. The bill mandates this calculation under Michigan's existing renewable energy framework without changing current energy policies.

Maddy summarySB 156 expands the authority of Michigan's Office of the Legislative Corrections Ombudsman to investigate complaints about the Department of Corrections. The bill requires the ombudsman to create a standardized complaint form (available online and in correctional facilities) and grants access to department records - including prisoner medical, mental health, and mortality records - without needing a release. It also allows the ombudsman to enter correctional facilities for inspections at any time (including emergencies like riots), consult with qualified experts after background checks, and hold informal hearings. This directly affects prisoners, their family members, prisoner advocates, and the Department of Corrections by strengthening oversight of correctional operations.

Maddy summarySB 342 amends Michigan's 2006 law on law enforcement disclosures by clarifying the definition of "involuntary statement." It specifies that a statement by a law enforcement officer is *not* considered involuntary if the officer knowingly and intentionally provided false or misleading information about a material fact. This change directly affects how courts evaluate police testimony regarding material facts, ensuring intentional falsehoods are excluded from the "involuntary statement" exception. The bill modifies Section 1 of 2006 PA 563 (MCL 15.391), with no new requirements or penalties added.

Maddy summarySB 344 modifies Michigan's property tax credit for individual income tax filers by changing the percentage rates used to calculate the credit. It directly affects homeowners who claim this credit, particularly those with lower property values who benefit from the credit against their state income tax. The bill amends specific sections of Michigan's Income Tax Act to adjust the credit percentages, making the calculation more precise. This change alters how much property tax can be deducted from income tax liability for eligible residents.

Maddy summarySB 345 increases the property tax credit threshold for Michigan homeowners, raising the taxable value cap for homestead property tax credits from $135,000 to $160,700 for the 2024 tax year. Beginning in 2025, the cap will automatically adjust annually based on the U.S. Consumer Price Index, rounded to the nearest $100. This change directly affects homeowners whose property value falls within the new threshold, allowing them to claim a larger credit against their state income tax for qualifying property taxes. The bill modifies Section 520 of Michigan’s Income Tax Act to implement this adjustment.

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 Resolution 51 commemorates May 21, 2025, as Cherry Industry Day in Michigan. This resolution acknowledges the state's significant role as the top cherry producer in the nation and the economic and health benefits of the cherry industry.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 49 is a tribute offered as a memorial for George Alvin McManus Jr., a former member of the Senate. The resolution honors his memory, acknowledges his service from 1991 to 2002, and directs copies to be sent to his family.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 316 amends Michigan's Mental Health Code, focusing on the assessment process for individuals considered for mental health hospitalization. It requires community mental health services programs' preadmission screening units to assess individuals within three hours of a hospital's request for admission to specific types of hospitals. If the screening unit cannot meet this deadline, another clinically qualified individual may perform the assessment, with the screening unit responsible for the costs. The bill also allows for telehealth services for these assessments and details the process for obtaining a second opinion if hospitalization is denied.