Rep. Bronna Kahle’s plan clarifying state law to ensure implantable medical devices are exempt from Michigan’s 6 percent sales and use tax was unanimously approved today by the state Senate.

“This plan will make important health-related procedures more affordable for patients so they can live happier, healthier lives,” said Kahle, of Adrian, after the Senate vote. “I’m pleased to say it is one step closer to becoming Michigan law.”

The legislation already has been approved by the Michigan House and should soon be headed to Gov. Whitmer for her consideration.

Kahle’s plan will ensure patients are not covering the costs of additional taxes when they need surgically implanted devices such as joint replacements, hip implants, and spinal stimulators for pain management. The legislation will stop the tax from being added to the sale of these devices when bought by health care providers – costs that typically would be passed along to patients through out-of-pocket charges or higher insurance premiums.

Kahle said the legal clarification is needed because of recent changes in policy from the Michigan Department of Treasury. She noted her plan ensures the original intent of state law – that the devices be tax-exempt – is followed.

Kahle’s plan is consistent with how other prosthetics are treated in Michigan. Eyeglasses, hearing aids and walkers are among the devices already exempt from state sales and use tax. In 2017, Kahle successfully passed a new law that added dental prosthetics such as crowns, bridges and dentures to that list.

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The legislation: House Bills 4204, with companion bill HB 4203.