Michigan House Bill HB4784

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/15/23
• Refer: 6/15/23

Caption

Taxation: estates; certain references in the Michigan estate tax act; make gender neutral. Amends sec. 21 of 1899 PA 188 (MCL 205.221). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23

Impact

The intended modifications to the Michigan Estate Tax Act are expected to clarify the legal responsibilities and rights concerning estate taxation and inheritance. By making the language gender neutral, the bill could help eliminate ambiguities that might arise from gender-specific terms, potentially improving the understanding and application of the law. This aligns with the state’s ongoing efforts to modernize its legal code and ensure that all citizens are treated fairly under the law.

Summary

House Bill 4784 proposes amendments to the Michigan Estate Tax Act of 1899, specifically focusing on Section 21, to make the language gender neutral. This change reflects a broader legislative trend towards inclusivity in legal texts, which aims to remove gender bias in statutory language and ensure that laws apply equally to all individuals regardless of gender. The bill underscores the necessity for updated language that resonates with contemporary values and social norms, thereby promoting equity in legal frameworks.

Contention

While the bill primarily targets language modification, it could lead to discussions about the broader implications of estate taxation and how laws surrounding inheritance are framed. Although there may be limited controversy over the need for gender-neutral language, debates could arise if the amendments initiate discussions about the estate tax itself or additional reforms in the Michigan tax code.