Several noteworthy healthcare issues saw attention the week of Feb. 3 by state lawmakers and policymakers, including the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) moving through the Senate Health Policy Committee, a reintroduction of the Momnibus bill package and Gov. Whitmer presenting her executive budget recommendation.
The Senate Health Policy Committee heard testimony and voted unanimously in support of Senate Bill (SB) 60 on Feb. 5. SB 60 removes the sunset on the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact, which streamlines the licensing process and allows physicians licensed in one state to practice in multiple, participating states. With the compact set to expire on March 28, the MHA is working quickly with legislators to re-introduce and pass this important legislation to maintain the agreement.
Also, the Michigan Senate reintroduced the Momnibus, a group of bills designed to improve health outcomes and accountability in prenatal and maternal healthcare during the week of Feb. 3. The legislation includes SBs 29–39, which focus on addressing access barriers, improving access to care and ensuring better patient outcomes for all birthing individuals, particularly those from African American and Brown communities.
The Momnibus makes several changes aimed at improving maternal healthcare, including creating opportunities for patients to directly engage in their treatment experience, implementing policies that support patient rights and provide coverage for certain perinatal and gynecological services. The bills also expand midwifery services, improve data transparency about maternal health outcomes and protect patient rights related to pregnancy and childbirth.
The bills have been referred to respective Senate committees. The MHA worked closely with the bill sponsors to improve access to maternal care and support SBs 29, 30, 31, 36, 38 and 39.
The final and major highlight of the week was the executive budget recommendation released by Gov. Whitmer and Budget Director Jen Flood on Feb. 5 for fiscal year 2026. The governor’s budget expands on essential funding for Medicaid, behavioral health services and substance use disorder prevention and treatment programs. The expansion of Medicaid funding allows more elderly and disabled beneficiaries to meet eligibility requirements without having to spend down their own assets to do so. In addition, it includes continued funding and resources dedicated to maternal and infant health.
MHA CEO Brian Peters released a media statement in support of the executive budget recommendation, applauding Gov. Whitmer’s commitment to being a healthcare champion.
Members with questions may contact Adam Carlson at the MHA.