Legislation on Cutting Red Tape in Death Situations Signed into State Law

LANSING, MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Mar. 18, 2026) – Grieving the loss of a loved one is tough. Trying to do so when caught in red tape is even tougher.

That’s the rationale behind two bills signed into state law this week by Governor Whitmer. This legislation, co-sponsored by House Democrat Julie Rogers of Kalamazoo, would in part, require the submission of a death report and medical certification through an online platform with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Rogers’ bill would also streamline funeral directors’ ability to gain certification on a death record, while Republican Representative Mike Mueller of Linden’s legislation adjusts outdated, stringent requirements on county medical examiners so that other qualified physicians can sign off on death certificates.