In The News

Michigan bill would put restrictions on young drivers

A bill on the move in the Michigan House is intended to make the state’s roadways safer by putting limits on novice drivers.

Sponsored by Rep. Richard LeBlanc, D-Westland, the bill would tweak the state’s graduated driver licensing law. The law affecting young drivers has three stages, which include a learner’s permit, intermediate license and regular license.

The bill would focus on drivers age 17 and younger. It would make changes to nighttime driving, passenger restrictions and cell phone use.

Currently, affected drivers must be off the roads between midnight and 5 a.m., unless accompanied by an adult, or traveling back and forth to work or between home and school. The bill would move up by two hours to 10 p.m. the time that they must park their vehicles.

Also, young drivers would be forbidden from having more than one non-family member under the age of 18 in the vehicle for the first six months behind the wheel, unless accompanied by an adult or traveling back and forth between home and school. Michigan law now doesn’t include any passenger restrictions.

Affected drivers would also be prohibited from using wireless devices – hands-free or not – while at the wheel.

Critics say the passenger restriction is too rigid. Others gripe that the curfew restrictions are too stringent.

Advocates say the changes are aimed at minimizing distractions by tightening regulations.

“Young drivers need to concentrate on learning the skills of being a good driver,” Rep. Matt Lori, R-Constantine, stated. “They don’t need to be distracted by all their friends messing around in the car, and they certainly don’t need to be using a cell phone.”

The bill – HB4493 – has advanced from the House Transportation Committee and is awaiting consideration on the House floor.

To view other legislative activities of interest for Michigan, click here .

Editor’s Note: Please share your thoughts with us about the legislation included in this story. Comments may be sent to [email protected] .

www.LandLineMag.com