Sen. Mallory McMorrow

Maddy summarySB 252, the "Water Shutoff Protection Act," prevents residential water shutoffs for vulnerable households without prior notice and multiple contact attempts. It protects critical care customers (requiring water for medical equipment) and eligible low-income customers (earning ≤200% of federal poverty guidelines or receiving specific assistance programs like SNAP or energy aid). The bill requires water providers to contact customers at least three times via multiple methods (notices, calls, texts, mail) before shutoff, detailing payment plans and affordability programs. Notices must include specific details like shutoff dates, available options, and contact information for program administrators.

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 248 creates a water rate affordability fund to provide financial assistance for human services, directly supporting low-income households struggling with water utility costs. The bill amends Michigan's human services code to establish this fund, which would help cover water bills for eligible residents. Currently in committee review (reported favorably with a substitute on November 5, 2025), the bill has not yet been voted on by the full chamber. It focuses on a concrete policy mechanism - funding for water bill assistance - without specifying eligibility details or funding sources in the provided context.

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.

Maddy summarySCR 6 is a memorial resolution passed by the Michigan Legislature to honor Virgil Clark Smith, a former member of the Michigan Senate (1988-2000) and House of Representatives (1977-1988). The resolution commemorates his 40+ years of public service, including his historic role as the first African American Senate Democratic Floor Leader. It expresses the Legislature's tribute to his dedication, leadership, and legacy as a trailblazing legislator and later Wayne County Circuit Court judge. The resolution was adopted unanimously by both chambers in October 2025 and will be transmitted to Smith's family.

Maddy summarySB 330 expands exemptions from Michigan jury duty to include nursing mothers (with medical verification), participants in the address confidentiality program, U.S. military service members and their spouses (during active duty), hospice caregivers, and parents caring for children with serious health conditions. To claim these exemptions, individuals must provide documentation like a physician's letter, military orders, or program verification. The bill modifies existing jury eligibility rules to add these specific categories while maintaining requirements for basic qualifications like U.S. citizenship and English communication. This change directly affects those in these protected groups who would otherwise be required to serve on juries.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 80) is a symbolic recognition of Diwali's significance, not a law with policy changes. It formally acknowledges Diwali's historic, cultural, and religious importance to Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities in Michigan and globally - describing it as the "festival of lights" symbolizing light overcoming darkness and celebrating shared values like tolerance. The resolution expresses the Senate's respect for Diwali's message and its celebration by over one billion people worldwide. As a ceremonial resolution, it has no binding effect but affirms Michigan's commitment to religious diversity.

Maddy summarySB 610 requires Michigan's health department to create a public database tracking uterine fibroid incidence, demographics, and treatment options in the state, while prohibiting personal patient data. Healthcare providers must submit diagnostic and treatment data to this database, and the department must publish annual reports summarizing the data starting two years after the law takes effect. The bill also mandates development of educational materials highlighting racial disparities in risk, non-surgical treatment options (like medications), and other key information for both the public and health professionals. These materials must be posted on the department's website and distributed by medical boards, with additional public awareness campaigns coordinated through nonprofit partnerships.

Maddy summarySB 548 requires Michigan insurance companies to cover the costs of state-mandated market conduct exams, which are regulatory reviews of insurers' business practices. This bill amends Michigan's insurance code (MCL 500.100-500.8302) by adding Chapter 4A to establish this requirement. It directly affects all insurers operating in Michigan by shifting the financial responsibility for these exams from the state to the companies themselves. The bill was introduced by Senator Jeff Irwin on September 17, 2025, and recently advanced to the Committee of the Whole with a favorable report.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates October 19-26, 2025, as Microplastics Awareness Week in Michigan. It symbolically recognizes the environmental and health concerns related to microplastics in the state's waterways, lakes, and Great Lakes shoreline, without creating new laws or regulations. The resolution encourages Michiganders to learn about microplastics and take actions like reducing single-use plastics and participating in cleanups. It does not directly affect any specific group or impose policy changes.