Great Lakes Wire

On May 7, 2025, Amanda Fisher, the Michigan State Director for the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), testified against Senate Bill 134. This proposed legislation seeks to expand the Michigan Consumer Protection Act by removing certain protections for over 80 business trades and professions that are already regulated under various state licensing laws. The bill could potentially expose these businesses to lawsuits. The exemptions currently in place were upheld by the Michigan Supreme Court in 1999 and largely affect small businesses.

Fisher addressed the committee, stating, “These businesses and protections are already regulated and overseen by state and federal agencies, whose job is, in part, to protect consumers. These agencies can levy fines, require changes to business practices, and even order a business closed. Given the regulation and oversight that already exist, those benefiting most from SB 1022 are trial lawyers, not consumers.”

NFIB's policy is determined through member voting. When asked whether Michigan should extend current consumer protection laws to include professions already covered by existing licensing laws against unfair and deceptive practices, only 16% of members agreed. A majority of 68% opposed it, while 16% remained undecided.

The bill is still under consideration in the Senate Committee but is expected to proceed to a full Senate vote soon. A similar bill was passed by the Senate in a previous session but did not advance in the House.