LANSING, Mich., April 20, 2026 — Bipartisan legislation led by state Reps. Julie M. Rogers (D-Kalamazoo) and Curt VanderWall (R-Ludington) to create Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) facilities in Michigan passed unanimously out of the House Health Policy Committee last week, marking a key step forward for families of children with complex medical needs. The proposal builds on bipartisan efforts to expand care options beyond traditional home-based nursing and hospital settings.
“This is about making sure families caring for children with complex medical needs have access to high-quality, compassionate care options that support both healthcare needs and a child’s development in the least restrictive setting possible,” Rogers said.
House Bills 5251, introduced by VanderWall, Health Policy Committee chair, and 5252, introduced by Rogers, former chair, would create a licensing and insurance framework for PPEC facilities — non-residential centers where children with intensive medical needs can receive skilled nursing care, therapies and developmental support during the day. The model, already operating in 17 other states, is designed to provide continuous medical oversight in a structured setting where children can also learn and socialize with peers.
“Ultimately, this proposal is about access to care and lower costs,” VanderWall said. “Right now, most of these families have one-on-one in-home care. By providing this option, kids could be cared for by a whole team of professionals, and they’d get to spend time with other kids their age. Not only is it good for the kids’ mental and physical health, but it also saves the state money. It’s a win-win.”
The legislation would authorize PPEC facilities under state licensing standards and ensure Medicaid coverage for eligible children receiving services. Supporters also note the model could help ease strain on the home health care workforce by centralizing care in specialized, team-based settings.
With the unanimous committee vote, VanderWall’s bill moves to the full House floor, while Rogers’ bill advances to the Rules Committee for further consideration.
Press Release | Office of State Rep. Julie M. Rogers