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HR 273

A resolution to declare April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in the state of Michigan.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Greg Alexander and 18 co-sponsors

Designates April 2026 as Michigan Child Abuse Prevention Month to raise awareness and encourage community actions for prevention and support, without new laws or funding.

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Bill Summary · HR 273

Summary of Bill HR 273 (2025-2026) — Michigan

Title

House Resolution 273 declares April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in the state of Michigan.

Purpose and Intent

  • To officially recognize April 2026 as a period dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect in Michigan.
  • To align state practice with the national recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month (observed since 1983).
  • To raise public awareness about the impact of abuse on children, families, and communities, and to honor professionals and advocates who work to protect and support children.

Key Provisions

  • The resolution designates April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Michigan.
  • It acknowledges the lasting health and developmental consequences of child abuse and emphasizes the importance of prevention, early intervention, and sustained community support.
  • It highlights the roles of professionals and volunteers (social workers, law enforcement, educators, healthcare providers, child advocates) in preventing abuse, supporting survivors, and aiding family healing.
  • It references symbolic observances (blue ribbons, pinwheel gardens) used in April as public reminders of the commitment to child safety and well-being.
  • It calls on Michiganders to engage in actions such as mentoring, advocacy, and volunteering to reduce and ultimately end child abuse and create safer futures for children.

Affected Parties

  • Directly: Children and families in Michigan, who benefit from heightened awareness and emphasis on prevention.
  • Indirectly: State and local agencies, child welfare professionals, educators, healthcare providers, law enforcement, social services, and nonprofit advocates involved in prevention and support programs.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • This is a symbolic, ceremonial resolution rather than substantive statutory reforms.
  • Introduced and adopted on April 14, 2026, by Representative Gina Johnsen (with a broad list of sponsors and co-sponsors).

Impact and Implications

  • Sets a formal acknowledgment within state government that child abuse prevention is a priority.
  • Encourages public education and community engagement during April 2026, potentially prompting related events, awareness campaigns, and volunteer activities.
  • Provides a framework for state and local partners to coordinate messaging around recognizing abuse signs and connecting families with prevention resources.

Notable Details

  • The resolution explicitly commends the efforts of professionals and advocates who support affected children and families.
  • It reiterates common symbols (blue ribbons, pinwheel gardens) used to symbolize hope and protection for children.

Overall, HR 273 is a formal declaration to observe April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Michigan, aimed at fostering awareness, prevention, and community involvement without imposing new legal or funding obligations.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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