Updates About Legislature

The 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference will take place Tuesday, May 26 through Friday, May 29 at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Hosted by the Detroit Regional Chamber, this annual conference offers a way for leaders in state government, business, and various other industries to discuss key issues impacting the state’s economy and public policy. Throughout the week and across the island, attendees can partake in policy discussions, network, attend lawmaker fundraisers, and hear relevant new updates from elected officials and industry leaders.

Because of the conference, the Legislature is not expected to hold session or committee meetings in Lansing that week. Clients interested in attending or learning more are encouraged to explore the full Conference Agenda. Additional details can be found on the Detroit Chamber’s FAQs/Attendee Information page.

This week, Republicans and Democrats joined together at Secchia Stadium, home of the Michigan State Softball team, for the 4th Annual Michigan Legislative Charity Softball Game. The event intends to unite legislators from opposing parties around a common cause and emphasize their shared commitment to helping Michigan families. The game raised over $10,000 for the Boys and Girls Club of Lansing.

The evening got off to a hot start when, at the conclusion of the first inning, the Democrats were up 3-2. In the bottom of the second, Republican Jay Deboyer sent a ball off the outfield fence for an inside-the-park grand slam to tie the game 7-7. The bats were relatively quiet for the next two innings until the top of the 5th, when Democrat Matt Longhjohn stepped up to the plate with the bases loaded. Facing a 1-1 count, he launched a ball over the fence, sending it off one of the outfield light poles for a grand slam, making the score 13-8. One of the Democrats he knocked in was Dylan Wegela, who was a perfect 5-5 on the day.

A heated debate broke out in the 6th inning between Republican Coaches Timmy Beson, Donni Steele, and Kathy Schmaltz, who argued with Democrat Coach Alabas Farhat and Third Baseman John Fitzgerald over whether Democrat Jimmie Wilson bunted a pitch, which is illegal in slow pitch softball.

In the end, the Democrats bested the Republicans 13-10, bringing the series record to 1-3 in favor of the GOP.

The Senate Finance, Insurance and Consumer Protection Committee recently took up testimony on SB 914, introduced by Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit). The bill would require prescription drug co-pay assistance to count toward a patient’s deductible and out-of-pocket maximum.

Supporters of the bill include patient advocacy groups that represent individuals with serious conditions such as cancer, blood disorders, epilepsy, and other diseases that require patients to rely on costly medications. Supporting organizations argue that the bill would reduce unexpected out-of-pocket costs for patients, while simultaneously improving affordability and transparency in drug pricing.

Opposition comes primarily from insurers and health plans, who argue the policy would influence patients to purchase more expensive brand name medications versus cheaper generic options. It has also been suggested that co-pay coupons increase the cost of brand name medications over time.

The bill is now waiting on a Committee vote.