Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed various bills into law late last week, saying the legislation “supplements the Whitmer-Gilchrist administration’s commitment to lowering costs and eliminating red tape for Michiganders.”
Senate Bill 834, sponsored by Senator Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores), delivers supports for families of public safety officers who pass away or are permanently disabled in the line of duty.
The bill increases the amount, from $25,000 to $50,000, that a surviving spouse or dependent receives, ensuring Michigan families are given the care and support they need as they grieve their loved ones.
House Bill 5779, sponsored by state Representative Jaime Churches (D-Wyandotte) strengthens public access and use of Michigan’s bridges by allowing certain municipalities to acquire, own, and operate a “public service facility—” a structure that provides transportation to the township.
The bill cuts complex red tape and ensures local governments have the autonomy they need to better maintain and operate vital pathways for Michiganders. That means fewer roads and bridges in need of repairs that cause damage to cars, saving Michiganders their hard-earned dollars.
House Bill 5803, sponsored by state Representative Matt Koleszar (D-Plymouth), eliminates the 3% tax Michigan public school teachers pay towards a health care fund, lowering costs for qualifying teachers and freeing up resources for local school districts.
Whitmer said this legislation demonstrates her commitment “to supporting Michigan’s teachers and schools by putting money back in teachers’ pockets and ensuring public schools have the resources they need to help their students thrive.
House Bill 5429, sponsored by state Representative Christine Morse (D-Texas Township), allows courts to establish a “Court-Appointed Special Advocate” (CASA) program, ensuring consistent representation for abused or neglected children.
“By making sure these children have someone advocating for their best interests, our legal system will be stronger and Michigan’s kids will be safer,” Whitmer said.
"The Court-Appointed Special Advocate program fills an important role in our juvenile justice system,” said state Representative Christine Morse. “They ensure vulnerable children have the support they need. CASA volunteers are a powerful voice for Michigan children, advocating for their best interests and helping them navigate difficult and often confusing legal proceedings. I’m proud to see this legislation signed into law to improve outcomes for Michigan’s children and
strengthen our commitment to their well-being.”
House Bill 5393, sponsored by Representative Kara Hope (D-Holt), extends the amount of time juvenile offenders have to complete the juvenile consent calendar case plan from three months to six months.
This extended time aligns with the recommendation made by the Task Force on Juvenile Justice Reform.
“Kids who make mistakes deserve a second chance, and this bill ensures they get it,” Hope said. “With more time on the consent calendar, a juvenile has more opportunity to get back on track and avoid criminal charges. These cases require the utmost care, which is why we are making this fix to give young people the necessary time to complete their plans.”
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