The MHA provided testimony to the House Judiciary Committee in support of next of kin care bills and healthcare legislation advanced during the week of June 2.
House Bills (HB) 4418 – 4419, introduced by Representatives Jamie Thompson (R-Brownstown Township) and Angela Witwer (D-Delta Township), seek to reduce barriers in the process of designating a next of kin to inform medical decisions for a patient who is unable to make those decisions themselves.
Currently, the process requires significant legal pursuit to obtain guardianship, which can be lengthy and places additional burdens on families during stressful scenarios. Elizabeth Kutter, senior director, government and political affairs, testified in support on behalf of the MHA. The bills now await a full vote in the House Judiciary Committee before advancing further.
HB 4277, sponsored by Rep. Matthew Bierlein (R-Vassar), unanimously passed the House Health Policy Committee June 4. HB 4277 removes certain questions pertaining to mental health for physicians applying and/or renewing their license. The MHA is supportive of the bill, which has moved to the House floor for a full chamber vote.
Lastly, HB 4246, sponsored by Rep. Phil Green (R-Millington), passed through the House Rules Committee June 5. HB 4246 adds Michigan to the Nurse Licensure Compact agreement and allows for nurses to practice in multiple states without the burden of applying for additional licenses. For Michigan, joining the compact will help increase access to care, especially through telehealth services and support nurse recruitment and retention efforts. The MHA continues to support this legislation as it advances in the legislature.
Members with additional questions should contact Elizabeth Kutter at the MHA.