Shelby Review

State Rep. Ron Robinson (R–Utica) has played a significant role in advancing a bipartisan legislative package aimed at reducing insurance fraud in Michigan. This week, Robinson contributed to moving House Bills 4713–4719 through the House Insurance Committee, building support from both parties.

“Insurance fraud drives up costs for every Michigan family,” said Robinson. “This bipartisan package puts consumers first by tightening loopholes, improving reporting, and ensuring real penalties for people who cheat the system. I’m proud to help lead this effort and grateful to colleagues on both sides of the aisle for moving it forward.”

The proposed legislation seeks to address insurance fraud by expanding the Health Care False Claims Act to include auto insurers that offer personal injury protection (PIP) benefits. The bills also introduce stronger penalties for fraudulent acts and provide protections for individuals who report suspected fraud in good faith. Additional measures include mandatory reporting of suspected fraud, authorization of civil fines for violations, and the inclusion of insurance fraud under Michigan’s racketeering laws. These changes are intended to give prosecutors and regulators more tools to address organized schemes that contribute to increased costs for families.

House Bill 4713, which is sponsored by Robinson, specifically updates the Health Care False Claims Act so that auto insurers providing PIP coverage are classified as “health care insurers.” This change is designed to strengthen enforcement related to PIP benefits.

“When fraudsters game the system, everyone pays higher premiums,” said Robinson. “These reforms will make it harder to commit fraud and easier to hold criminals accountable, which ultimately means more money stays in the pockets of hardworking Michiganders.”