Crimes: other; certain references in the penal code; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 30, 90, 166 & 335 of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.30 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23
Impact
The proposed amendments in HB 4793 will directly impact how laws related to adultery and sexual misconduct are interpreted and enforced in Michigan. By criminalizing adultery as a felony, the bill preserves the seriousness of the offense, especially in cases involving a married individual and a non-married individual. Additionally, the changes to spousal testimony allow a spouse to testify against the other without requiring consent, which can alter the dynamics of legal proceedings in cases of domestic issues involving lewdness and sexual misconduct.
Summary
House Bill 4793 aims to amend certain sections of the Michigan penal code, specifically those related to adultery, sexual misconduct under the pretext of medical treatment, spousal testimony, and gross lewdness. The bill introduces gender-neutral language to replace gender-specific terms in these laws, marking a significant step towards inclusivity in the state's legal framework. By eliminating gender bias, the bill seeks to modernize outdated provisions that do not reflect the contemporary understanding of gender identities and their relevance in legal proceedings.
Contention
Although the bill seeks to eliminate outdated and gender-biased language, it may also spark debates regarding the nature of adultery as a felony. Some may argue that criminalizing adultery infringes upon personal liberties and may not be suitable for modern law enforcement. Concerns have been raised about possible misuse of the laws surrounding sexual misconduct under medical pretenses, particularly the implications for medical professionals and patient relationships. Stakeholders might advocate for clearer definitions and boundaries in the law to ensure fair application while maintaining the bill's integrity.
Same As
Civil rights: sexual orientation discrimination; certain references to marriage; make gender neutral. Amends sec. 1, art. X & repeals sec. 25, art. I of the state constitution.
Civil procedure: other; certain references in the revised judicature act; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 1410, 2005, 2162, 2807, 3344, 5451, 6023a & 6131 of 1961 PA 236 (MCL 600.1410 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23
Civil procedure: other; certain references in the revised judicature act; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 1410, 2005, 2162, 2807, 3344, 5451, 6023a & 6131 of 1961 PA 236 (MCL 600.1410 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'25
Human services: other; certain references in the social welfare act; make gender neutral. Amends sec. 32 of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.32). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23
Insurance: other; certain references in the insurance code; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 2207, 2209, 3110 & 3402 of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.2207 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23
Worker's compensation: other; certain references in the worker's compensation act; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 118, 335 & 353 of 1969 PA 317 (MCL 418.118 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23
Insurance: other; certain references in the insurance code; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 2207, 2209, 3110 & 3402 of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.2207 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'25
Crimes: criminal sexual conduct; references to married minors in the Michigan penal code; modify. Amends secs. 520d, 520e & 520l of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.520d et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0209'23
Worker's compensation: other; certain references in the worker's compensation act; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 118, 335 & 353 of 1969 PA 317 (MCL 418.118 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'25
Veterans: other; certain references in the funeral expenses of veterans statute; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 2 & 3 of 1911 PA 235 (MCL 35.802 & 35.803). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23