Genesee News

When minor infractions lead to a driver's license suspension, one small mistake can snowball, because a lack of transportation can bring on job loss ... or worse.

Experience as a sheriff’s deputy showed state Rep. Mike Mueller (R-Linden) how easily Michigan's current system can turn a minor infraction, such as a speeding ticket or a parking fine, into an endless storm that completely upends the life of an otherwise upstanding citizen, he said in a release on the Michigan House Republicans website.“Once someone gets into the criminal justice system, it’s very unlikely they will ever get out."

There are many different infractions that can lead to a suspended license under current state law, and a significant number of them are unrelated to driving. The result is that the third most-common reason a Michigan resident goes to jail is for driving with a suspended license.

“Too many good, well-intending people have faced the possibility of severe penalties for making minor mistakes that unintentionally violate our state laws,” Mueller said in the release. “Good people don’t belong in our criminal justice system. Our law enforcement, courts, jails and tax dollars can be better used to fight real criminals who present a danger to society. It’s time we restructure the system.”

To correct it, Mueller introduced legislation that recently passed the state House, he said. For anyone caught driving with a suspended license, if the license was suspended for anything other than dangerous driving, the individual would receive a civil infraction carrying a maximum fine of $150 rather than facing a misdemeanor charge with 93 days in jail and a $500 fine.

Instead of the second offense incurring a $1,000 fine, it would result in a $250 fine, Mueller continued. Only on and after a third offense would someone face jail time and a fine up to $500.

“This plan is about helping keep good people out of the criminal justice system and putting taxpayer resources to better use by our law enforcement,” Mueller said.