The bill amends the 1973 PA 116, which governs the licensing and regulation of child care organizations in Michigan, by adding a new section (16a) that establishes a provider advisory council. This council will consist of 7 to 11 members, appointed by the director of the department after consultation with a recognized statewide professional membership association. Members must be employed by child caring institutions or child placing agencies based in Michigan for at least two consecutive years and represent different geographic regions of the state. The council is tasked with reviewing proposed contracts and amendments related to child care organizations and must meet at least quarterly.

Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for the council's operation, including the requirement for the department to submit proposed contracts to the council for review at least 120 days before execution. The council can issue recommendations regarding these contracts, and the department must respond to these recommendations. The bill also includes provisions for conflict of interest disclosures for council members, prohibiting them from accepting gifts from interested parties and detailing consequences for violations. The department is prohibited from retaliating against members who report suspected violations, ensuring transparency and integrity in the council's operations.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 722.111, 722.128