Michigan bill package would end roadside cash payments

October 18, 2018

Keith Goble

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A three-bill package halfway through the Michigan statehouse is intended to simplify the issuance of traffic citations for out-of-state drivers.

Currently, Michigan is one of six states that are not members of the Nonresident Violator Compact. The distinction results in drivers issued traffic citations in another state to either provide cash on site, have their driver’s license confiscated, or possibly be sent to jail until payment is made.

The House voted 105-2 to advance one bill that would remove the requirement for cited drivers to pay cash along the roadside while driving out-of-state. Instead, HB6011 would enroll the state in a national driver license compact to share traffic violation records with other states.

Rep. Jeff Noble, R-Plymouth, said his bill would ensure states work together so that bonds and citations are appropriately settled if a driver from another state is issued a ticket.

“This plan ensures violations will be paid while also allowing drivers to be on their way after receiving a citation,” Noble said in a released statement.

The House Fiscal Agency reports the other states that are not part of the compact are Alaska, California, Montana, Oregon and Wisconsin.

House lawmakers voted 106-1 to advance a separate bill, HB5542, to amend the Motor Carrier Safety Act to revise the provision concerning nonresident truck drivers issued traffic citations.

Rep. Jim Runestad, R-White Lake, said the change would get rid of “an antiquated law.”

“When officers collect the cash, the funds are immediately taken in and reported,” Runestad stated. “This requirement takes time away from patrolling and can be misperceived by visitors to our state.”

He adds that the Michigan State Police has recommended eliminating the requirement.

The third bill in the package, HB6012, would make the same change to Michigan Vehicle Code.

Rep. Steve Johnson, R-Geneva, said the change is “a common-sense provision that protects Michigan law enforcement officers and travelers from having to engage in an uncomfortable roadside cash transaction.”

He added that his bill would ensure that out-of-state drivers would have the same privileges in Michigan – as long as their home state is part of the agreement.

The three bills are tie-barred together. The term refers to a requirements that all bills in the package must be signed into law to take effect.

The package of bills awaits assignment to committee in the Senate.

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