Michigan Senate Bill SB0030

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/4/25
• Refer: 2/4/25
• Report Pass: 3/20/25
• Refer: 3/20/25
• Report Pass: 4/16/25
• Engrossed: 4/17/25
• Refer: 4/17/25

Caption

Civil rights: general discrimination; reporting procedures for mistreatment during perinatal period; provide for. Creates new act.

Impact

If enacted, SB 30 would have significant implications for healthcare practices during the perinatal period. It seeks to enable the Department of Health and Human Services to provide comprehensive oversight and reporting of care that negatively affects patients based on race or that violates principles of respectful and ethical treatment. This act would allow for the collection of de-identified data to highlight and address systemic issues within healthcare institutions, promoting accountability and improvement in service delivery to marginalized groups.

Summary

Senate Bill 30, known as the Biased and Unjust Care Reporting Act, aims to establish a framework for reporting incidents of obstetric violence and obstetric racism within perinatal care in Michigan. The proposed legislation mandates that the state's Department of Health and Human Services utilize a validated tool to collect reports from individuals who experience care that is not culturally congruent, does not maintain dignity and privacy, or fails to meet informed consent requirements. The goal is to create a more just and unbiased healthcare environment for pregnant individuals and new mothers.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 30 is generally supportive among advocacy groups focused on maternal health and civil rights. Proponents argue that it addresses important issues regarding health discrimination while improving the quality of care for vulnerable populations. However, there is also an undercurrent of concern among some stakeholders who worry about the implications of increased regulation on healthcare facilities and professionals, raising discussions on the balance between accountability and the operational burdens placed upon healthcare providers.

Contention

Key points of contention include the definitions and implications of terms such as 'obstetric violence' and 'obstetric racism'. There are debates over the adequacy of current protections for patients during childbirth and the need for additional state intervention. Critics may express concerns that the bill could complicate existing procedures and reporting requirements without sufficiently addressing the root causes of inequities in healthcare. As discussions continue, stakeholders are encouraged to explore how best to implement the reporting mechanism in a way that enhances care without imposing undue strains on healthcare practices.