Sen. Mary Cavanagh

Maddy summarySB 764, the "Open Caption Accessibility Act," requires movie theaters with 8 or more screens to provide open captioning for at least two weekly showings of each film that plays five or more times per week (Friday-Thursday). Open captioning means captions displayed on screen that cannot be turned off, directly benefiting deaf and hard-of-hearing moviegoers. Theaters must advertise captioned showings similarly to other screenings, post public notices about requesting captioned showings, and maintain records for the Attorney General’s office. This law applies to all qualifying theaters operating in Michigan, with enforcement through the Department of Attorney General.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 136 primarily eliminates the requirement for healthcare providers to notify patients about dense breast tissue after mammography. This change directly impacts patients undergoing mammograms and the medical facilities that perform these screenings in Michigan. The bill also enacts broader amendments concerning the use of radiation machines for mammography procedures. These modifications are made by amending and repealing specific sections within the existing Public Health Code.

Maddy summarySB 158 prohibits the use of automated programs (bots) to purchase event tickets online in bulk. It directly affects consumers trying to buy tickets fairly and venues or ticket sellers using such bots to manipulate sales. The bill creates a new legal prohibition against these automated ticket-buying practices, making it illegal for businesses to deploy them. This policy change aims to prevent scalping and ensure equitable access to tickets for the general public.

Maddy summarySB 462 requires retail businesses selling nicotine or tobacco products to obtain a state license. It directly affects convenience stores, gas stations, and other retailers that currently sell these products without a specific retail permit. The bill amends Michigan's existing tobacco licensing laws to add new requirements for retail sellers, including specific licensing provisions and enforcement mechanisms. The legislation is pending in committee after being favorably reported with a substitute amendment.

Maddy summarySB 465 would require retailers to obtain a license to sell nicotine or tobacco products at retail in Michigan, directly affecting stores and businesses selling these items. The bill creates temporary exemptions for certain sales, such as limited-time promotions or specific product types, while establishing the licensing requirement. It amends existing state law (MCL 722.641-722.645) by adding a new section to formalize these rules. The bill is currently in committee review after being reported favorably with a substitute amendment.

Maddy summarySB 483 creates a palliative care advisory task force within Michigan's health department. The task force will study current palliative care services and make recommendations to improve access and quality for patients facing serious illness. This affects Michigan's healthcare system by establishing a new body to address gaps in end-of-life care services.

Maddy summarySB 738, the "Michigan Fair Chance Access to Housing Act," prohibits landlords from asking about or denying rental applications based solely on an applicant's criminal record before issuing a conditional offer. It directly affects renters with criminal histories and requires landlords to provide written notice about criminal record screening before collecting application fees. Key provisions include banning pre-offer inquiries into criminal history (except for federal requirements), allowing landlords to consider only specific serious offenses (like arson, human trafficking, or recent sex offenses requiring registration) after a conditional offer, and mandating an individualized assessment with mitigating evidence for denials. Landlords must also disclose if criminal records are part of their screening process.

Maddy summaryThis is a memorial resolution honoring Donald Koivisto, a former Michigan State Senator (1990-2002) and House Representative (1981-1986). The resolution expresses the legislature's tribute to his service, highlighting his dedication to the Upper Peninsula, farming community, and bipartisan collaboration. It was unanimously adopted by both chambers as a formal expression of respect for his legacy. The resolution has no policy impact - it solely commemorates his public service.

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.