The bill amends the Revised Judicature Act of 1961 to modernize and clarify garnishment procedures in Michigan. It introduces new definitions for terms such as "consumer," "creditor," "earnings," and "garnishment," which help delineate the roles of parties involved in garnishment actions. Key provisions include the establishment of conditions for garnishment, limitations on garnishable earnings, and obligations for plaintiffs and garnishees. Significant deletions from current law remove certain restrictions on the court's authority regarding garnishment and specific language related to proceedings against governmental units. The bill also emphasizes compliance with Michigan court rules and requires plaintiffs to provide judgment balance statements while ensuring garnishees respond to garnishment notices.
Additionally, the bill enhances protections for debtors by specifying exemptions from garnishment for various types of income, including public assistance benefits and disability payments, and sets limits on garnishable earnings based on minimum wage laws. It outlines the responsibilities of financial institutions in handling garnishments and details the process for intercepting state tax refunds under a writ of garnishment. The bill also introduces amendments related to property exemptions in bankruptcy, clarifying the rights of judgment debtors and establishing procedures for contesting property seizures. Overall, the bill aims to balance the interests of creditors and debtors while ensuring fair treatment within the legal framework.