MI HB5842

Reestablishes the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission (MIDC) as an autonomous entity within the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs with independent budgeting and personnel authority.

Requires the MIDC to propose minimum standards for local delivery of indigent criminal defense services that ensure effective assistance of counsel while respecting the Supreme Court's authority over court practice and procedure.

Establishes indigency eligibility criteria including a rebuttable presumption of financial hardship for defendants earning less than 140% of federal poverty guidelines, receiving public assistance, residing in public housing, or incarcerated.

Mandates minimum standards requiring defense counsel to have controlled caseloads, continuous representation throughout cases, continuing legal education, confidential meeting spaces, and systematic performance reviews.

Requires judicial review of approved minimum standards in the Court of Claims within 60 days, with effectiveness contingent on passage of House Bills 5843, 5844, 5845, and 5846.