MI HB4631

Expands the appellate defender commission from 7 to 9 members and adds a representative recommended by the Michigan Indian Judicial Association; requires 2 public members to represent interests of individuals impacted by youth or adult justice systems.

Establishes separate appellate defense systems for both indigent adults and indigent youth, with the appellate defender responsible for representing both populations after conviction or appealable orders.

Requires the commission to maintain two statewide rosters of attorneys willing to serve as appellate defense counsel—one for indigent adults and one for indigent youth.

Defines "youth" as individuals eligible to appeal orders under specific probate code sections and "adult" as individuals eligible to appeal criminal convictions or exercise postconviction remedies.

Creates state reimbursement for indigent defense systems that pay locally appointed private counsel at rates consistent with the Michigan indigent defense commission standards, with the state reimbursing up to 50% of costs initially and all costs exceeding the 3-year average after compliance period.