Bio

Josiah Kissling is a member of Plunkett Cooney's Government Relations, Public Policy & Regulatory Practice Group. In his role as a client advisor, Mr. Kissling works with public and private sector clients across a range of industries to achieve their public policy goals, to create lasting relationships with Michigan government officials and to ensure compliance with state regulations.

A former legislative director to two past Speakers of the Michigan House of Representatives, Mr. Kissling has extensive relationships in the state's capital. Prior to joining the firm, he served as the senior director of state and federal government relations for the Michigan State Medical Society. He also previously served as budget director and deputy policy director for the Michigan House of Representatives.

Mr. Kissling, who works in the firm's Lansing office, has a thorough understanding of Michigan's legislative and budgeting processes. His personal, business and political background allows him to effectively deal with complex legislative issues and emergency situations, particularly when clients face challenging legislative and regulatory issues.

Representative Client Work

  • Advocated for the passage of legislation streamlining the prior authorization process for Michigan patients and health care providers. Public Act 60 of 2022
  • Developed strategies for the passage of legislation reforming Michigan’s Auto No-Fault insurance laws. Public Act 21 of 2019
  • Negotiated passage of legislation to eliminate Michigan’s driver responsibility fees, forgive outstanding debt related to the fees and help impacted people get their licenses back. Public Act 43 of 2018
  • Tracked and advocated for the passage of legislation, known as the “Michigan Thrive bills” aimed at jumpstarting brownfield redevelopment, such as Detroit Hudson's site, in core cities around Michigan. Public Act 46 of 2017
  • Guided legislation through the Michigan House of Representatives which ensured the Detroit Public Schools stayed financially viable and able to serve students. Public Act 193 of 2016
  • Led state budget negotiations on behalf of the Speaker of the House. Responsible for the passage of multibillion-dollar state budgets in 2015 and 2016 as the Speaker’s Budget Director.
  • Oversaw negotiations for a road funding compromise that provided new state funds to fix state and local roads and bridges throughout Michigan. Public Acts 174 and 176 of 2015

Community Involvement

  • Volunteer Disaster Relief Coordinator - Hurricane Katrina (2005-2007)

Insights