The Michigan House of Representatives unanimously approved legislation Sept. 18 to establish next-of-kin designation, allowing certain family members of an incapacitated patient to make medical decisions on their behalf. House Bills 4418 and 4419, sponsored by Reps. Jamie Thompson (R-Brownstown) and Angela Witwer (D-Delta Township), would update state law to recognize the essential role of family in medical decision-making when a patient cannot act on their own.
The MHA-supported legislation, which passed 98-0, now heads to the state Senate for further consideration.
Members with any questions related to the legislation may contact the advocacy team at the MHA.