Judge rules on nine bills held by House Leadership
State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) testifies in a House committee at the Anderson House Office Building in Lansing.
LANSING, Mich., March 6, 2025 — A Michigan Court of Claims judge ruled last week that Michigan House Republican leadership is legally required to present nine bills to the governor’s desk. The decision follows a lawsuit filed by Michigan Senate Democrats regarding the status of the bills, which were passed by the Legislature last year but had not yet advanced.
State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) sponsored one of the nine bills, House Bill 4901, which revises the types of properties exempt from bankruptcy proceedings. In response to the court’s decision, Carter issued the following statement:
“It is concerning that these bills, including House Bill 4901, have not yet reached the governor’s desk. This legislation is essential for providing protections to homeowners facing financial hardship, helping more families keep their homes and avoid the risk of homelessness. While there have been delays, I remain committed to moving this legislation forward. Judge Sima Patel’s ruling makes it clear that all nine bills should be presented to the governor for review.
“It is important to uphold our legislative process and ensure that the work we do on behalf of Michigan families moves forward efficiently. I appreciate the efforts of my colleagues in the Senate, and I will continue working to see this matter resolved. The people of Michigan deserve a government that prioritizes their needs and well-being.”
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