LANSING — State Representative Sam Singh (D-East Lansing) sharply criticized action taken by the House in approving House Bill 5558, a bill which would further undermine the Michigan Consumer Protection Act (MCPA). The legislation prohibits an individual from filing an action for an unfair, unconscionable, or deceptive method, act or practice that is made unlawful by Chapter 20 of the Insurance Code of 1956. The bill specifically would prohibit a cause of action that occurred before, on or after March 28, 2001. During debate on the House floor, Singh offered an amendment to tie-bar this bill with his own legislation, HB 5378, which would fully restore the original intent of the MPCA. The motion was rejected by the Republican majority.
“This bill serves only to further undermine our weakened consumer protection laws and put our citizens at a disadvantage when dealing with insurance companies. In the 1970’s, lawmakers in Michigan were able to work across the aisle to write one of the most comprehensive consumer protection acts in the nation,” said Singh. “Now, the MCPA is virtually toothless, after changes that were made in 2000. I have legislation that would restore the MPCA to its original intent and return much needed protections to the citizens of this state. It’s disappointing to see the legislature move in the wrong direction when it comes to protecting the people of Michigan.”