WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 4608

Mental health: other; certain references in the mental health code; make gender neutral. Amends sec. 800 of 1974 PA 258 (MCL 330.1800). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'25

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Julie Brixie and 25 co-sponsors

Michigan bill updates Mental Health Code Section 800 language to be gender-neutral, ensuring mental health statutes clearly apply to all individuals regardless of gender identity.

bill electronically reproduced 06/10/2025
#civilrights:sexualorientationdiscrimination #familylaw:marriageanddivorce #mentalhealth:other
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 4608

Legislative bill overview

HB 4608 amends Section 800 of Michigan's 1974 Mental Health Code to replace gender-specific language with gender-neutral terminology. The bill updates statutory references throughout that section to reflect modern inclusive language standards while maintaining the substantive provisions of mental health law.

Why is this important

Mental health codes establish legal frameworks for treatment, rights, and procedures affecting vulnerable populations. Updating language to be gender-neutral ensures that statutes clearly apply to all individuals regardless of gender identity, reducing potential ambiguity in legal interpretation and ensuring equitable application of mental health protections and procedures.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition of scope: Unclear which specific terms or sections within MCL 330.1800 are being changed, making it difficult to assess the full impact without seeing the amended language
  • Implementation consistency: Changes to one section may create inconsistencies if other parts of the Mental Health Code or related statutes retain gender-specific language
  • Stakeholder perspectives: Mental health providers, patients' rights advocates, and others may differ on whether language changes are substantive improvements or administrative matters with varying urgency compared to other legislative priorities

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

Sign in to ask a question.