Gov. Gretchen Whitmer

LANSING — Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed bipartisan legislation to expand access to quality health care, support Michigan’s health care providers, strengthen patient safety, and improve the state’s response to public health challenges like the opioid crisis. The bills make it easier for qualified health care professionals to practice in Michigan, support efforts to address the opioid crisis, and connect Michiganders with lifesaving donation opportunities. The bills build on Governor Whitmer’s comprehensive approach to the opioid crisis, which has driven down opioid deaths for 4 consecutive years, a 47 percent decline since 2021.

“In Michigan, we’ve worked hard to expand access to quality, affordable health care and respond to the nationwide opioid crisis,” said Governor Whitmer. “These bipartisan bills build on that work by protecting patients and health care workers from surgical smoke, encouraging organ donation, and improving our response to federal scheduling of controlled substances. I was proud to sign my eighth balanced, bipartisan budget this week that protects Michiganders’ access to Medicaid. Let’s keep working together to get things done for Michiganders.”

Addressing the Opioid Crisis

Senate Bill 616 sponsored by state Senator Sylvia Santana (D-Detroit), amends the Opioid Liability Litigation Act to prevent cities, counties, and other local governments from suing pharmaceutical companies over opioid-related claims that have already been resolved through settlement agreements with the state.

“Throughout my time in office, we have secured nearly $2 billion to help our state combat the opioid epidemic,” said Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. “These settlements have already made a significant impact in the lives of Michigan families affected by this crisis, proving what we can achieve when real investments are made in treatment and prevention services. This legislation will strengthen these efforts by ensuring our communities receive every dollar they are owed.”

“Michigan’s 47% reduction in overdose deaths since 2021 shows what is possible when we invest in evidence-based public health strategies,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Chief Medical Executive. “Opioid settlement funds have allowed us to expand access to naloxone, treatment, recovery and harm reduction services across the state. While we know there is more work to do, we are grateful for continued legislative action that allows us to build on this progress and save more lives.”