MI HB5554

Amends Michigan's Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act to explicitly define harassment in educational settings as unwelcome communication or conduct based on religion, race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity that interferes with educational participation or creates a hostile environment, including conduct via electronic messaging and technology.

Establishes institutional liability for harassment by employees, agents, vendors, contractors, volunteers, and guest speakers, as well as liability for harassment by any individual if the institution receives notice and fails to act.

Requires educational institutions to demonstrate reasonable care by publicizing harassment prevention policies, providing supportive measures within 3 days of receiving a harassment report (including schedule adjustments, no-contact orders, counseling, and grade accommodations), and conducting prompt investigations when requested.

Mandates that institutions designate confidential employees and prohibits retaliation against harassment victims, including disciplinary action for related code of conduct violations, requiring confidentiality agreements, or forcing victims to unenroll, transfer, or take leave.

Expands available damages in civil actions to explicitly include emotional distress, compensatory damages, punitive damages, and reasonable attorney, witness, and expert witness fees.