Sen. Dayna Polehanki

Maddy summarySB 232 amends Michigan's Reconnect Grant program to expand access to financial aid for adult learners. It modifies eligibility requirements (setting a minimum age of 25, or 21 if funds allow before 2032) and adds a "reconnect short-term training program" offering skills scholarships of up to $1,500 for industry-recognized certificates or credentials. The bill directly affects Michigan residents aged 25+ (or 21+ with available funding) seeking associate degrees or occupational training who have not earned prior college degrees. Key mechanisms include streamlined application processes, mandatory federal aid filings, and a pathway to convert short-term training credits into associate degree coursework at community colleges.

Maddy summarySB 233 lowers the age requirement for Michigan's Reconnect program from 25 to 21 years old. This change expands eligibility for last-dollar financial aid (covering remaining tuition costs after other aid) to adults aged 21 and older pursuing associate degrees or industry-recognized credentials. The bill amends Section 1 of the Michigan Reconnect Grant Act (2020 PA 84) to align with the program's goal of increasing the state's college degree and credential attainment rate for residents aged 25-64. It directly affects adult learners seeking postsecondary education who previously did not qualify due to age restrictions.

Maddy summarySB 267 establishes the Michigan-African-Caribbean Trade Commission, a new state agency focused on fostering trade relationships between Michigan and nations in Africa and the Caribbean. The bill creates a formal commission under state agencies to develop and promote economic partnerships, directly affecting Michigan businesses and officials engaged in international trade with these regions. Key provisions include defining the commission's structure and mandate to support trade development, though specific operational details are not outlined in the provided context. This is a procedural bill creating a new commission, not a policy with immediate regulatory changes.

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 350 would allow Michigan public school students to opt out of the workforce readiness assessment portion of the Michigan Merit Examination. Currently required for high school graduation, this section tests job skills and career readiness; the bill would give students the choice to skip it without academic penalty. The change directly affects students in Michigan public schools who take the exam, which is mandatory for graduation. The bill amends state law (MCL 388.1704b) to create this opt-out option, focusing on student choice in a specific assessment component.

Maddy summaryThis constitutional amendment proposal (SJR F) removes gender-specific language from two Michigan Constitution sections. It repeals the current definition of marriage as "the union of one man and one woman" (Article I, Section 25) and updates property rights language to be gender-neutral (Article X, Section 1). The change would affect all Michiganders by eliminating gender-based restrictions in marriage recognition and ensuring property rights for married individuals are defined without gender distinctions. If approved by voters, it would amend the state constitution to reflect these neutral terms. The bill is currently in committee for review.

Maddy summarySB 562 would increase the minimum percentage of federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LiHEAP) funds that must be spent on weatherization services for low-income households. It directly affects eligible households receiving energy assistance by expanding access to home weatherization improvements like insulation and efficient heating systems. The bill amends Michigan’s existing law (MCL 206.527a) to raise the required allocation of LiHEAP funds for weatherization assistance. This policy change modifies how state funds are distributed under federal energy assistance programs.

Maddy summarySB 329 removes penalties that insurers could apply for past lapses in auto insurance coverage. It specifically eliminates requirements for applicants to prove they maintained insurance for the 6 months before applying (prior to January 1, 2022), and prohibits insurers from refusing coverage, raising premiums, or charging reinstatement fees solely due to prior coverage gaps. The bill directly affects drivers applying for auto insurance before 2022 who had brief periods without coverage. These changes streamline the application process by preventing insurers from penalizing applicants for past lapses that occurred before the effective date.