Pontiac Times

LANSING, Mich. — Senate Health Policy Minority Vice Chair Michael Webber on Wednesday introduced legislation to increase opportunities for licensed public health care workers to transfer out-of-state credentials as part of a larger plan introduced by Senate Republicans to encourage economic growth in Michigan.

"Michigan needs more health professionals, and we must ensure that bureaucratic red tape is not hindering talented individuals from establishing roots to practice their care in our great state," said Sen. Webber, R-Rochester Hills.

"My bill will work to remove overburdensome stumbling blocks and help grow Michigan and this vital workforce," he added.

Senate Bill 849, introduced by Sen. Webber, would call upon the state’s Licensing and Regulatory Affairs agency to publish an annual report on current reciprocity agreements and identify new opportunities to establish reciprocity for occupational credentials established under Michigan’s Public Health code.

The full “Grow MI State” economic development plan also includes legislation to bring transparency and accountability to state regulations, as Sen. Webber previously introduced Senate Joint Resolution C with the aim of requiring legislative approval for new state agency rules that would have significant financial implications.

"Michigan’s small business owners — many who may not have the ability to pay for lobbyists and lawyers to manage state requirements — can easily find themselves stifled under the weight of costly state regulations," Sen. Webber emphasized.

Sen. Webber's efforts align with a broader goal of fostering economic growth and supporting the healthcare workforce in Michigan. Interested individuals are encouraged to subscribe to Sen. Webber's email list for updates on state government matters.

Follow Sen. Michael Webber at:

P.O. Box 30036

Lansing, MI 48909-7536