Bill > HB5189

This bill modifies the Worker's Disability Compensation Act by updating the procedures for small claims division hearings within the worker's compensation agency. The bill increases the monetary threshold for small claims from $2,000 to $10,000 and makes several procedural changes. Key modifications include allowing parties to represent themselves or be represented by an attorney (with restrictions on when the matter can be moved to a full hearing), removing the requirement for expert testimony, and changing evidentiary rules. The bill specifies that a worker's compensation magistrate will hear small claims matters and issue a decision without requiring a detailed written opinion. The magistrate's decision is final and nonappealable except in cases of fraud, and the doctrine of res judicata does not apply to claims not included in the original decision. Parties can still request a full hearing under section 847 for any unresolved disputes. The bill is tied to another House Bill and will only take effect if that companion bill is also enacted into law.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-5189