Public Policy Update from the State Bar of Michigan

March 30, 2026
Volume 24, Issue 13

In the Capitol

The Legislature will be back in session on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.

In the Hall of Justice

PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
ADM File No. 2023-23: Proposed Amendment of MCR 3.972
The proposed amendment of MCR 3.972 would require the court, in child protective proceeding bench trials, to make findings of fact and conclusions of law and allow for the equivalent of an involuntary dismissal.
Issued: 3/25/26
Comment Period Expires: 7/1/26

RULE AMENDMENTS
ADM File No. 2023-23: Amendment of MCR 3.942
The amendment of MCR 3.942 requires the court, in delinquency proceeding bench trials, to make findings of fact and conclusions of law and allow for the equivalent of a directed verdict.
Issued: 3/25/26
Effective: 5/1/26

NEWS
Michigan Supreme Court to Engage Bay Region Students Through 33rd Court Community Connections Program

At the Bar

The Representative Assembly will meet on April 25, 2026. The agenda and materials are available online. The Representative Assembly welcomes your input. To comment on a proposal, go to www.michbar.org/publicpolicy/member_comment. All comments received by Wednesday, April 22, 2026, will be shared with members of the Representative Assembly.

NEWS
Commissioners sign national pledge to preserve independence of legal profession
The State Bar of Michigan Board of Commissioners has signed a nationwide pledge reaffirming its commitment to upholding the Rule of Law and the Constitution.

SBM to publish Member-to-Member Referral Guide
Michigan attorneys can sign up now to be included in the SBM’s 2026 Member-to-Member Referral Guide, which will be published online and in the July/August issue of the MBJ.

2 New Virtual Support Groups for Attorneys to Start in April
The SBM’s Lawyers and Judges Assistance Program is offering two free, confidential virtual support group for attorneys to help each other work through stress and more.

Links of Interest

SBM Public Policy Resource Center
Public Acts
Michigan Supreme Court
Michigan Legislature
MCL Search Engines