Sen. Dan Lauwers

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 89) is a ceremonial recognition of January 25-31, 2026, as Catholic Schools Week in Michigan. It does not create new laws or policies but formally acknowledges the role of Catholic schools in the state. The resolution highlights that Catholic schools serve over 50,000 students across 207 schools, comply with public school safety standards, and contribute to community values and academic excellence. As a symbolic gesture, it has no binding effect on funding, regulations, or school operations.

Maddy summarySB 689 amends Michigan's farmland preservation law to expand when landowners can give up (relinquish) farmland from development rights agreements. It adds two new scenarios: 1) land with pre-existing structures (up to 5 acres), and 2) land for a farm operator's residence (up to 2 acres), both requiring approval from local government and the state land use agency. If relinquishment occurs, landowners must repay tax credits received under the agreement, plus interest, via a lien recorded against the property. This directly affects farmers with existing farmland preservation agreements who wish to develop or use portions of their land for specific purposes.

Maddy summarySB 688 updates Michigan's farmland protection law by amending provisions related to development rights agreements for farmland. It specifically adds a requirement that the state must subordinate its interest in these agreements to a mortgage lien if the landowner is "an individual essential to the operation of the farm" (as defined in existing law) and the parcel meets certain criteria. This change directly affects farmers seeking mortgages on land protected by such agreements. The bill does not alter the minimum 10-year or maximum 90-year term for agreements but clarifies when mortgage claims take priority over the state's easement interest.

Maddy summarySB 686 allows landowners with conservation easements on farmland or open space to relinquish only part of their easement, rather than the entire property, under specific circumstances. This change directly affects farmers and landowners who hold conservation easements on agricultural or open-space land. The bill amends Michigan law (MCL 324.36110) to establish a process for partial relinquishment, streamlining how easements can be modified. It does not alter the overall conservation purpose but provides greater flexibility for landowners managing their property.

Maddy summarySB 685 amends Michigan's farmland tax credit law (MCL 324.101-324.90106) by adding Section 36109b. It expands eligibility for the farmland tax credit to properties with existing legal agreements (like easements or leases) that were in place before a specific date, even if those arrangements complicate ownership. This change directly affects farmers and landowners who hold farmland subject to multiple pre-existing agreements, allowing them to qualify for the tax credit they previously might have been excluded from. The bill passed unanimously in the Michigan Senate on December 2, 2025, after being referred to the Agriculture Committee.

Maddy summarySB 690 expands a state income tax credit for property taxes on farmland and open space protected by conservation agreements, such as agricultural easements or development rights agreements. Eligible farm owners - including those in partnerships, S corporations, life estates, trusts, and limited liability companies - can claim a credit for property taxes exceeding 3.5% of household income. The bill clarifies how the credit is calculated and shared among different ownership structures, requiring specific documentation like partnership agreements or trust terms to claim it. This change directly affects Michigan farmers who have conservation agreements on their land to preserve agricultural use.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows local governments to hold agricultural conservation easements (land protection agreements for farmland) instead of the state, with the state retaining enforcement rights through a specific clause. It directly affects farmers selling easements and local governments purchasing them, enabling installment payments for easements and requiring a special enforcement clause if held solely by a local government. Key provisions include allowing local units to purchase easements through negotiated terms and mandating that easement documents include language granting the state a "third-party right of enforcement" if local holders fail to act. The bill does not change tax credits for landowners but updates existing rules to shift easement holding authority to local governments under defined conditions.

Maddy summarySB 513 amends Michigan's liquor law by changing the legal definition of "brand" under Section 105 of the 1998 Liquor Code (MCL 436.1105) and adds a new Section 604. This directly affects liquor businesses, distributors, and regulators by clarifying how "brand" is legally defined in licensing and regulatory contexts. The bill does not create new taxes or restrictions but adjusts terminology to align with current industry practices. It passed unanimously in the legislature on December 2, 2025, with no opposing votes. (Note: The bill is procedural, focusing solely on statutory definition, not new policy.)

Maddy summarySB 512 amends multiple sections of Michigan's liquor distribution laws (1998 PA 58), including provisions related to licensing, distribution channels, and retailer operations. It directly affects liquor distributors, retailers, and potentially consumers by modifying existing regulatory rules. The bill adds a new section (412) and updates specific sections (105, 303, 526, 607, 609b, 1025), though the context does not detail the exact policy changes. The bill passed the legislature on December 2, 2025, with 37 votes in favor.

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.