Legalizing surrogacy.

Surrogacy agreements will now be legal and enforceable in Michigan, marking a seismic shift for prospective parents and surrogates alike. Previously, surrogacy was a legal gray area, forcing people to tiptoe around outdated laws.

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Critics fear the new rules may turn motherhood into a commercial enterprise, while supporters argue that it’s about time Michigan stepped into the 21st century, as the state was one of the last to decriminalize paid surrogacy.

Child car seat regulation.

Starting in 2025, Michigan’s updated child car seat laws will bring the state in line with federal standards, prioritizing safety by refining restraint requirements. The new regulations emphasize a child’s height and weight as key factors in determining the appropriate car seat, moving beyond the previous age-based guidelines.

Automatic voter registration.

Starting June 30th, Michigan residents applying for a driver’s license or state ID will be automatically be registered to vote. And in a groundbreaking move, Michigan will also become the first state to automatically register individuals to vote upon their release from prison.

Tax credit for organ donors.

Starting in 2025, Michigan residents who are living organ donors can claim a tax credit of up to $10,000. This credit is designed to offset expenses such as lost wages and medical bills incurred during the donation process. The law aims to encourage more organ donations across the state, potentially saving lives and supporting those in need of transplants.

Cardiac emergency plans in schools.

Beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, schools are required to develop comprehensive cardiac emergency plans. These plans must cover cardiac emergencies at school athletic facilities and during all school events. Additionally, high school coaches must obtain CPR certification and be trained to use an AED.