Advocacy Statements

Senate Bills 418- 437 and House Bills 4624-4642

 This legislation is consistent with many of the recommendations of the AAP policy statement on juvenile justice reforms. The Committee recommended supporting this legislation and communicating that support to the legislature.

pa 21-22

On Thursday, March 28 Governor Whitmer signed Public Act….  This was the final step for House Bills 4511 and 4512 to become law in Michigan.  Car seat safety has been a key legislative priority for MIAAP, and this law finally makes important statutory updates with respect to car seats and booster seats.  

“This is a great step in helping to keep our kids safe on the roads,” said MIAAP Advocacy Committee Chair, Jonathan Gold, MD.  He added, “Motor vehicle accidents are the second leading cause of death in the U.S.  Updating our state law with respect to car seats has been a long-standing priority for MIAAP and it is exciting to see it come to fruition.” 

MIAAP played a crucial role supporting this legislation from the outset, and offered expertise and grassroots support to help get the bill across the finish line.  The bill signing is a culmination of a decade-long effort to update Michigan law.  Doctor Gold further went on to say, “We are grateful  for the support of Governor Whitmer signing these bills into law.   We are also grateful for bill sponsors Representative Carrie Rheingans and Representative John Fitzgerald for their hard work in passing this important legislation."

The new law incorporates safety guidelines based on weight and age consistent with the most up to date research and evidence.  Michigan law will no longer be out of step with recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, and guidelines from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and from car seat manufacturers.  

“MIAAP is committed to improving the health of Michigan’s infants, children, and adolescents,” said MIAAP CEO Colin Ford, “and this legislation is consistent with that commitment.  I’m thankful for the participation of our pediatricians at every level. Whether it was testifying during committee or contacting their State Representative or Senator to support the bills, this legislative victory was a culmination of all of those efforts.”

Upcoming Legislation

Come back later to view any new advocacy statements the MIAAP has made.