Gov. Whitmer signed Senate Bill 482, now Public Act (PA) 105 of 2024, on July 23, which extends the timeline for the disposal of sharps containers. Previously, state law mandated that sharps containers be removed from the premises every 90 days, regardless of if the container is fully utilized. Now, state law allows for a sharps container to be maintained until it is ¾ full but no longer than 18 months from the date of first sharps disposal in the container. This MHA supported legislation is a direct result of feedback from hospital team members on the need to ensure state law aligns with healthcare industry standards. Originally sponsored by Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Bay City), PA 105 will save hospitals money and reduce medical waste production.
MHA CEO Brian Peters issued the following statement on the signing of SB 482:
“The hospital community thanks Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet for sponsoring, and Gov. Whitmer for signing, Senate Bill 482, which will directly improve hospitals’ ability to appropriately dispose of sharps in a timely manner, reduce medical waste and remove unnecessary cost from the process. The MHA and its members appreciate the Legislature’s willingness to work collaboratively on solutions that can positively impact patient care and lower costs.”
Members with questions on the new law may contact Adam Carlson at the MHA.