Rep. Mike McFall

Maddy summaryThis Michigan bill amends the state's vehicle code to clarify that traffic violations designated as civil infractions cannot be treated as lesser included offenses of criminal charges. It establishes specific fine ranges for various driving and vehicle equipment violations, including a new provision that requires courts to waive fines and costs if a driver cited for an illegible registration plate provides proof of having obtained and installed a compliant plate before their court date. The legislation also mandates a $40 justice system assessment for most civil infractions and allows judges to order additional educational or rehabilitation programs alongside monetary penalties.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Michigan's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to clarify definitions and procedures for commercial fishing in the state's Great Lakes waters. It directly affects licensed commercial fishermen, fish dealers, and the Department of Natural Resources by establishing precise meanings for terms like "abandoned gear," "quota," and various types of fishing nets. The legislation also adds new definitions to improve record-keeping requirements for fish production, storage, and sale, ensuring that all commercial activities are clearly regulated. By amending multiple existing sections and adding a new one, the bill aims to provide a more structured framework for managing allowable catch limits and enforcing fishing privileges.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 342 urges the U.S. House of Representatives to reject Amendment 041 to the BUILD America 250 Act, a provision that would shield rideshare and delivery companies from vicarious liability for injuries or damages caused by their drivers. The resolution argues that this amendment would prevent victims from holding platforms accountable under state law unless the company is found to be grossly negligent or criminally wrongdoers, citing concerns about sexual assault cases on these apps. By blocking this federal preemption, the bill aims to preserve states' authority to regulate liability and ensure companies can be held responsible for harms arising from their operations.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands the powers and duties of Michigan's Office of the Legislative Corrections Ombudsman, which handles complaints from prisoners, their advocates, and legislators regarding conditions in state correctional facilities. Key changes require the ombudsman to notify complainants and affected prisoners when investigating or declining to investigate complaints, and mandate that the office consult with the Department of Corrections before issuing any report that criticizes the department or its staff. The legislation also establishes strict reporting requirements, forcing the ombudsman to publish detailed monthly and annual reports on complaint statistics and department responses, while adding protections to ensure that individuals cannot be penalized for filing complaints or cooperating with the ombudsman. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the ombudsman's authority operates alongside, rather than replacing, existing legal remedies and appeal processes for prisoners.

Maddy summaryHB 5920 expands the powers of Michigan's Office of the Legislative Corrections Ombudsman to better investigate issues within the Department of Corrections. The bill allows the ombudsman to launch investigations based on complaints from prisoners, legislators, or family members, as well as on their own initiative regarding safety and security concerns. Key provisions include granting the ombudsman access to medical and mortality records, the ability to hire qualified experts for inspections, and the authority to enter correctional facilities at any time, including during emergencies.

Maddy summaryHB 4103 adds a new section to Michigan's health occupations law to implement an occupational therapy licensure compact. This bill allows occupational therapists licensed in Michigan to practice in other participating states without obtaining separate licenses, and vice versa for therapists from other compact states. It directly affects occupational therapists seeking to work across state lines, reducing barriers to practice. The compact mechanism establishes standardized licensing requirements among participating states, streamlining the process for therapists to provide services in multiple jurisdictions.

Maddy summaryHB 4104 updates Michigan's occupational therapy licensing rules to join a multi-state licensure compact. This would allow occupational therapists licensed in Michigan to practice in other participating states without obtaining separate licenses. The bill modifies existing law to align with the compact's standards and adds new sections for implementation. It directly affects occupational therapists seeking to work across state lines within the compact.

Maddy summaryHB 4824 updates Michigan's legal definition of "brand" within liquor regulations. This change directly affects liquor producers and sellers who market products under specific brand names, clarifying how brands are recognized under state law. The bill modifies Section 105 of the 1998 Liquor Code (MCL 436.1105) and adds a new Section 604 to establish clearer rules for brand identification. These changes aim to streamline compliance for businesses without altering existing licensing or sales requirements.

Maddy summaryHB 5232 changes Michigan's military leave law to require local governments (cities, towns, counties) to provide paid leave for certain law enforcement and fire department employees who serve in active military duty. It mandates that local units of government must cover the pay difference between an employee's civilian salary and military pay during their leave, ensuring they don't lose income. The bill specifically adds mandatory paid leave for these public safety workers, while still allowing local governments flexibility to create similar programs for other employees. This amendment updates existing law (MCL 32.273a) to reflect new requirements for first responders.

Maddy summaryHB 5233, the "Military Leave for First Responders Act," requires fire departments and law enforcement agencies in Michigan to provide at least 26 days of paid leave annually for employees serving in military reserve components. It directly affects fire department and law enforcement agency members who are enlisted in reserve units, covering both active duty deployment and training. The law mandates employers pay these members their regular wage during leave and maintain all contractually required benefits. It also specifies advance notice requirements for leave requests (14 days for 10-20 days off, as soon as possible for longer periods) and includes a provision for paid leave to attend pre-induction military exams.