Michigan Administrative Code Department - Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
1. Licensing Violations by Health Facilities
Case Scenario: A nursing home in Michigan failed to maintain proper staffing ratios, violating Michigan Administrative Code R 325.11001 which regulates nursing home staffing requirements.
Details:
The facility was cited for repeatedly having fewer licensed nurses than required by the Code.
LARA’s Bureau of Community and Health Systems (BCHS) conducted inspections and issued deficiency notices.
The facility argued that occasional staff shortages were due to emergencies and could not be strictly enforced.
Outcome:
LARA imposed fines and mandated corrective action plans, including hiring additional staff and implementing a staffing schedule audit system.
The case demonstrates how LARA enforces regulations even if violations are intermittent, emphasizing the protection of patient safety over operational excuses.
2. Real Estate Licensing Disciplinary Action
Case Scenario: A licensed real estate agent was accused of misrepresentation in property listings under Michigan Administrative Code R 338.1210, which governs real estate practices.
Details:
The agent had listed properties with false claims about square footage and zoning status.
Complaints were filed by buyers who purchased homes based on misleading listings.
LARA’s Bureau of Professional Licensing conducted hearings and reviewed documentation.
Outcome:
The agent’s license was suspended for 6 months.
Mandatory continuing education on ethical practices was required.
The case highlights LARA’s role in maintaining professional integrity and consumer protection in licensed professions.
3. Barber and Cosmetology License Revocation
Case Scenario: A cosmetology salon was found operating without a licensed practitioner under R 338.2021 of the MAC.
Details:
Inspectors noted that several employees performed services without proper licensing.
Salon management argued that some workers were in training programs and were under supervision.
LARA required proof of supervision and verification of trainees’ enrollment in approved programs.
Outcome:
The salon license was temporarily suspended until compliance was proven.
All unlicensed practitioners were removed from service.
LARA reinforced that even “training scenarios” cannot bypass licensing requirements, protecting public safety and hygiene standards.
4. Child Care Center Sanctions
Case Scenario: A daycare facility violated multiple safety codes under R 400.8134, which requires proper supervision and child-to-staff ratios.
Details:
A complaint arose after multiple children were found unsupervised during a field trip.
Inspections also revealed expired CPR certifications for staff.
The center claimed staffing shortages and scheduling conflicts caused the lapse.
Outcome:
LARA issued a formal corrective action plan and temporary closure during peak hours.
Staff were required to complete emergency preparedness and CPR training.
The case illustrates how LARA enforces child safety regulations strictly, even in cases of logistical challenges.
5. Occupational License Denial for Fraudulent Documentation
Case Scenario: An applicant for an electrician’s license submitted falsified work experience documents under R 338.3001 et seq., governing trades licensing.
Details:
During background verification, discrepancies were found between the documents submitted and verified employment history.
The applicant argued that clerical errors caused the mismatch.
Outcome:
LARA denied the license application.
The decision emphasized that accurate documentation is a critical component of licensing, and falsification is treated seriously to prevent unqualified practitioners in safety-sensitive trades.
6. Assisted Living Facility Medication Errors
Case Scenario: A resident in an assisted living facility received incorrect medication due to improper record-keeping, violating R 325.11026 on medication administration.
Details:
LARA investigations found staff failed to follow established protocols for verifying dosages.
The facility’s internal audits were insufficient.
Outcome:
The facility faced civil fines and was required to retrain all staff in medication safety protocols.
This case illustrates LARA’s dual focus on preventing harm and enforcing systemic improvements.
7. Fitness Center Health Code Violations
Case Scenario: A gym operating without proper emergency safety measures violated R 333.21801 regarding public health and sanitation.
Details:
Inspections revealed lack of AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) and unsanitary locker rooms.
Gym owners argued they had no prior incidents, so enforcement was “overly cautious.”
Outcome:
LARA mandated installation of safety equipment and sanitation improvements.
Regular follow-up inspections were scheduled to ensure compliance.
These cases show several patterns:
Public Safety is Paramount: LARA often prioritizes safety over operational convenience.
Strict Licensing Enforcement: Whether health, trades, or professional licenses, compliance with documentation and qualifications is non-negotiable.
Corrective Action Plans are Common: LARA usually combines penalties with structured remediation.
Consumer Protection is Central: Many cases focus on protecting the public from misinformation, malpractice, or unsafe conditions.
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