MI HB6073

Removes net worth and employee thresholds that previously excluded certain individuals and businesses from the definition of "party" eligible to recover costs and fees against the state.

Changes cost and fee awards against the state from mandatory to discretionary, requiring either stipulation of the parties or a motion, unless the state's position was substantially justifiable.

Creates exceptions where cost and fee awards require a finding that the state's position was frivolous (rather than merely non-justifiable) for actions involving illegal gambling with liquor licensees, child abuse registry cases, child support cases, and license suspension actions.

Eliminates the $75 per hour attorney fee cap and instead requires courts to award reasonable attorney fees based on prevailing market rates and applicable supreme court precedent.

Takes effect 90 days after enactment and is contingent on enactment of HB 6072 or Senate Bill No. ____.