The Legislature returned from the Detroit Chamber’s annual policy conference on Mackinac Island with gusto, with each Chamber taking action on several items. Committees were hard at work with both Senate and House Health Policy committees meeting this week.

The Senate Health Policy Committee took testimony on the importance of Medicaid and the damage to be done to Michigan residents should the proposed cuts at the federal level go through. Several mothers from around the state gave moving testimony about how Medicaid saved their children’s lives, urging lawmakers to protect the program. Hospital leaders echoed these concerns, saying further cuts would force staff reductions and limit care access, especially in rural communities. They and others warned that proposed reductions, currently estimated to cost Michigan up to $13.4 billion in federal funding over a decade and potentially leave over 700,000 residents uninsured, would be devastating to families and providers alike.

With one in four Michiganders relying on Medicaid, health leaders and policymakers warned that the financial strain from reduced federal support, combined with potential work requirements and loss of provider taxes, could cripple hospitals, create care deserts, and overwhelm families already navigating complex medical needs. The hearing underscored that for many, Medicaid is not a handout but a lifeline, and its erosion could have dire consequences for Michigan’s healthcare system and public health.

MSMS submitted written testimony, click here to read the full testimony, which included many of the previous points, and also spoke to the importance of the loan repayment programs that are on Congress’ chopping block. The bill as currently drafted would limit access to medical school loans and loan forgiveness programs, which could threaten the future of our physician workforce at a time of growing need.

MSMS continues to actively engage with coalition members to protect Medicaid. It’s important for members of Congress to hear from their constituents, so please contact them here.

Meanwhile, the House Health Policy Committee met Wednesday and took action on House Bill 4277, sponsored by Rep. Matthew Bierlein. The bill was unanimously approved with a 15-0 vote. This legislation proposes to amend the Public Health Code by specifying that invasive mental health history questions not be included in licensure and renewal applications for physicians. Instead, applicants would be asked only whether they believe they pose a risk to patient safety or are unable to perform essential job functions without accommodation. The bill aims to reduce stigma and encourage physicians to seek mental health care without fear of professional repercussions. MSMS is ardently supportive of the bill and will be advocating with the full House to see the measure through.

In addition to HB 4277, the committee advanced several other bills. House Bills 4218 and 4219, which amend sections of the Mental Health Code, were reported out with unanimous support. Testimony was also taken on House Bills 4527 and 4528, concerning protections for persons who are blind and use travel aids. Chair Curtis VanderWall shared a personal story from his family and the committee was very responsive. A vote on these bills is likely in the coming weeks.