Administrative procedure: rules; adoption of rules by state agencies more stringent than federal regulations; prohibit. Amends secs. 32 & 45 of 1969 PA 306 (MCL 24.232 & 24.245).

SB 123 prohibits Michigan state agencies from adopting rules stricter than applicable federal standards, unless specific justification is provided. It requires agencies to document a "clear and convincing need" for stricter rules when federal standards exist or when no federal standards apply (unless state law specifically authorizes it). The bill also exempts special education rules (R 340.1701-R 340.1862) from these restrictions. This change directly affects state agencies developing regulations, ensuring they align with federal requirements unless legally justified. The law applies to all non-emergency rules and modifies how agencies must document regulatory decisions.