Updates About Legislation

Recently, Governor Whitmer signed a four bill bi-partisan package to balance the State’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget. Included in the legislation is a plan to move forward with a $1.3 billion investment in construction and renovation projects at public universities and community colleges.

Two of the bills authorize financing for 27 higher education projects included in the budget. Under SB 729, the State Building Authority’s debt ceiling was raised, allowing for the financing of the projects. HB 5482 provides the Legislature with the authority to appropriate funding for the State Building Authority’s rental payments and long-term projects.

The remaining two bills divert money into the General Fund. SB 569 transfers money from the Public Health Code to the General Fund, while HB 5109 moves money from the Transportation Administration Collection Fund.

The patch these bills provide ensures the state can move forward with the higher education projects that aim to modernize existing facilities, renovate older classrooms, and create new labs, while maintaining a balanced FY 2027 budget.

House Democrats recently introduced a bill package that aims to reform Michigan’s primary care. The eight-bill package is being led by Rep. Matt Longjohn (D-Portage). The series of bills aims to increase the share of state-contracted health plans spending dedicated to primary care from 6% to 12%.

Also included are bills creating a state commission and office focused on primary care access, workforce needs, and monitoring investments. The package would codify the MiDOCS recruitment program and create a MiNURSES program that would offer loan repayment and scholarships for nurses who work in underserved areas.

The package also comprises a proposal to create a program for state-backed loans to help students who are pursuing a career in primary care but have already reached the federal student loan cap. Lastly, a bill in the package is included to create tax credits for clinicians who train providers and grants for medical schools to introduce students to health careers.

The introduction of the package comes as primary care, and healthcare in general, see access shortages across the state.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently announced that they are preparing to implement the federally required Medicaid changes that were passed under H.R. 1. This includes the new work requirements and more frequent eligibility reviews for certain Healthy Michigan Plan (HMP) beneficiaries.

Beginning in January 2027, some HMP enrollees ages 19 to 64 may need to complete approved activities. The list of approved activities includes employment, education, volunteer work, or work programs. Some enrollees can qualify for an exemption to maintain their coverage. The department will be reviewing federal guidance, updating systems, and developing outreach materials to help beneficiaries understand and comply with the new requirements.

The changes will be implemented gradually, and MDHHS has stated that beneficiaries will receive additional information and notices as the transition moves forward.