MI HB6072

Replaces "shall" with "must" and modernizes language throughout the Administrative Procedures Act for clarity and consistency.

Removes financial eligibility restrictions on parties seeking cost and fee awards, eliminating prior net worth and employee thresholds that limited eligibility.

Expands cost and fee awards to prevailing parties unless the agency demonstrates its position was substantially justifiable, with exceptions for illegal gambling cases, child abuse registry proceedings, and summary license suspensions.

Adds parole board proceedings to exemptions from the Administrative Procedures Act, clarifying that Department of Corrections parole hearings are not subject to the act's requirements.

Changes attorney fee awards from a capped rate of $75 per hour to reasonable fees as determined by the presiding officer following applicable Supreme Court precedent.