
Both the House and Senate Health Policy Committees began action on a package of bills intended to codify ACA protections into state law. Introduced in both chambers by Republican and Democratic policymakers, the package would ensure that many of the consumer protections found in the ACA remain in Michigan if there were significant federal changes to the law. The package includes Senate Bills (SBs) 356 through 358 and House Bills (HBs) 4619 through 4623. The MHA is supportive of the package, which has been passed in at least 15 other states to date.
The House Labor Committee took testimony on HB 4034, sponsored by Representative Kara Hope (D-Holt), which would seek to regulate Temporary Staffing Agencies. The MHA opposed the legislation in committee given concerns about how it could impact the availability of temporary nurse staffing in Michigan and the detailed provisions around requirements for how the services would be provided. The MHA will work with the bill sponsor on potential changes to ensure it does not limit access to temporary healthcare staffing. No further action is scheduled on the legislation at this time.
In House Health Policy Committee, testimony was also held on Sen. Sylvia Santana’s bill intended to increase access to vaccines and certain laboratory tests. SB 219 would allow pharmacists to order and administer immunizations and certain diagnostic tests for their patients without physician supervision. Under the current language, pharmacists wishing to provide these additional services must also complete some additional continuing medical education courses as part of their licensure process. While no votes were taken at the hearing, the MHA is supportive of SB 219.
In Senate Health Policy Committee, testimony was taken on a package of bills that would allow Michigan citizens to designate themselves as an organ donor on state tax forms. Introduced by Rep. Felicia Brabec (D-Pittsfield Twp), HB’s 4362 through 4364 would allow the question to be asked on tax forms starting in the 2023 tax year. The MHA is supportive of the legislation, which is being led by Gift of Life Michigan as a way to reverse the decline in donor registrants. Gift of Life Michigan testified in committee that many states are seeing this as a result of the pandemic and online services leading to fewer trips to the Secretary of State. No votes were taken at this time.
Members with questions about state legislative action can reach out to Adam Carlson at the MHA.