This week the Michigan Senate passed House Bill 5455, which would reinstate language to keep the state in the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact, by a vote of 31-0. It received overwhelming support (102-2) in the House earlier this month. The passage of HB 5455 ensures that physicians can continue practicing without interruption and patients maintain access to care.
Action on this issue comes after months of delay caused by a disagreement over which version of the bill should move forward. Governor Whitmer signed the bill into law on Thursday, March 26, 2026, making it Public Act 6 of 2026.
The compact streamlines licensing for physicians across member states, making it easier for doctors to practice in multiple locations and improving patient access—particularly through telemedicine and in underserved areas. Passage of HB 5455 provides clarity and certainty for both physicians and patients, helping ensure continuity of care across Michigan.
The Legislature is on spring break until Tuesday, April 14. Importantly from MSMS’s perspective, no further action has been taken on either HB 4399 or HB 5522, nurse practitioner and physician assistant scope of practice bills, respectively. MSMS continues to meet with legislative leaders to ensure that the bills either do not move or have significant changes before further action is taken. Concerned physicians can reach out to their legislators via MSMS’ Action Center.
Upcoming In-District Events
Legislators genuinely want to hear from their constituents and regularly host community conversations for just that purpose. Scheduled events are below:
Friday, April 3, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Representative Matt Longjohn, Oshtemo Township, 7275 W Main Street, Kalamazoo
For questions regarding legislative issues of concern or interest, please contact Kate Dorsey, MSMS Director of Government Affairs, at kdorsey@msms.org or 517-336-5737.