As budget negotiations intensify and election-season rhetoric accelerates, lowering healthcare costs for Michiganders has become a central focus in both policy and political discussions. Legislators in both Chambers are considering bills to improve the affordability of health care coverage and access to medically necessary services.
Senate Democrats recently introduced a proposal to transition Michigan from the federal Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace to a state-run health insurance exchange. Supporters say the shift—paired with a reinsurance program—could reduce premiums, cut administrative costs, and give Michigan greater control over healthcare spending, with potential savings reinvested into programs such as enrollment assistance. The proposal is being positioned as part of a broader effort to stabilize coverage and contain costs. The Michigan State Medical Society (MSMS) is closely monitoring developments.
Meanwhile, at its April 29, 2026, meeting, the Michigan House Health Policy Committee considered two bills – one to ease healthcare regulations and the other to increase outreach regarding organ and bone marrow donation. Much of the Committee’s discussion centered on House Bill 5709, which would modify Certificate of Need requirements for certain outpatient imaging services. Proponents argued the changes would expand access and modernize outdated regulations. Opponents, including hospital representatives and the Michigan Radiological Society, warned the bill could disrupt care delivery by encouraging competitors to focus on profitable services, potentially undermining financial stability and access to comprehensive care, particularly in rural areas. Concerns were also raised that increasing imaging capacity without addressing a shortage of radiologists could worsen interpretation backlogs. MSMS is reviewing the legislation and seeking input from interested parties.
The committee also heard testimony on Senate Bill 205, which would allow physicians and other healthcare workers to share information about organ and bone marrow donation registries. While broadly supported as a low-cost way to increase donor participation, some groups noted potential administrative and implementation challenges.
To stay engaged on these and other healthcare issues, members are encouraged to connect directly with their legislators. Upcoming in-district events provide an opportunity to share perspectives, ask questions, and discuss how current proposals may impact patients and providers. See below for a list of scheduled events and opportunities to participate.Top of Form
MONDAY, MAY 4
- Representative Regina Weiss (D) Local Coffee Hour 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Oak Park Public Library 14200 Oak Park Blvd Oak Park, MI 48237
- Representative Ann Bollin (R) Office Hours 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
Greater Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce, 218 E. Grand River Ave.
- Representative Ann Bollin (R) Office Hours 3:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Lyon Township Hall, 58000 Grand River Ave., New Hudson.
FRIDAY, MAY 8
- Representative Joey Andrews (D) Community Conversation 4:00 to 5:30 p.m.
Exact location will be provided to registered attendees 48 hours in advance
MONDAY, MAY 11
- Representative Betsy Coffia (D) Local Office Hours 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Leelanau County Government Center (8527 E Government Center Dr, Suttons Bay).
WEDNESDAY, MAY 13
- Representative Mike Mueller (R) Coffee Hour 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Mundy Township Senior and Enrichment Center, 3478 Mundy Ave., Swartz Creek.
MONDAY, MAY 20
- Representative Nancy DeBoer (R) Local Office Hours 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
1190 S. Washington Ave. Holland MI
MSMS also offers a Doctor of the Day program, where members can join our Director of Government Affairs in Lansing to meet with their own legislators, as well as other members of relevant legislative committees.
For questions, please contact Kate Dorsey, MSMS Director of Government Affairs, at kdorsey@msms.org or 517-336-5737.