Michigan's Uniform Power of Attorney Act (UPOAA)

In the ever-evolving landscape of legal frameworks, Michigan holds a prominent position, thanks to its groundbreaking Uniform Power of Attorney Act (UPOAA) — a legislative milestone that significantly transforms the dynamics of decision-making authority. On November 7, 2023, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed into law Michigan’s Public Act 187 of 2023, which enacted the UPOAA (effective date July 1, 2024). Seeking to safeguard bankers' interests, MBA Bank Counsel Committee engaged in multiple meetings with David Sprague, Senior Vice President of Regional Trust Management at Old National Bank, and Christine Savage, from Lowe Law Firm, representing the Probate Section Subcommittee on UPOAA. The Michigan Bankers Association played a crucial role as an important stakeholder in ensuring that the legislation was crafted and passed in a manner that did not adversely affect financial institutions.

Uniform Power of Attorney Act Webinar

A new law in Michigan is designed to provide for increased accessibility, effectiveness, and standardization for POAs. The Uniform Power of Attorney Act (UPOAA) was signed into law by Governor Gretchen Whitmer on November 7, 2023, and will take effect on July 1, 2024. Speaker: Melissa K. Bridges, Bodman

 Access the Slides

Representative Kara Hope (D) a key proponent of the UPOAA and the bill sponsor expressed, “The Uniform Power of Attorney Act standardizes Michigan’s law and improves upon older power of attorney statutes by offering greater clarity and protections. This law will help prevent elder abuse and fraud while removing barriers to safe and effective powers of attorney.”

Representative Graham Filler (R) a stalwart supporter of the UPOAA, commented, "The Uniform Power of Attorney Act improves current Michigan law by standardizing and clarifying existing power of attorney statutes, particularly for businesses and parties that operate across state lines. I am happy to advocate for this bipartisan, common sense legislation.”