SAFETY BELTS; WORK ZONE S.B. 1089:
SUMMARY OF INTRODUCED BILL
IN COMMITTEE
Senate Bill 1089 (as introduced 9-21-16)
Sponsor: Senator Tom Casperson
CONTENT
The bill would amend the Michigan Vehicle Code to require the operator of a motor vehicle to wear a lap belt, but not a shoulder harness, if the operator were operating the vehicle for the purpose of performing road construction or maintenance in a work zone.
Section 710e of the Code requires each operator and front seat passenger of a motor vehicle operated on a street or highway in the State to wear a properly adjusted and fastened safety belt. However, the Code prescribes exceptions or further requirements to that provision for different operators and passengers of a motor vehicle depending on varying circumstances. A person who violates Section 710e is responsible for a civil infraction. Section 710e does not apply to a passenger of a school bus, or an operator or passenger of any of the following:
-- A motor vehicle manufactured before January 1, 1965.
-- A bus, motorcycle, or moped.
-- A motor vehicle if the operator or passenger possesses a written verification from a physician that the operator or passenger is unable to wear a safety belt for physical or medical reasons.
-- A motor vehicle that is not required to be equipped with safety belts under Federal law.
-- A commercial or United States Postal Service vehicle that makes frequent stops for the purpose of pickup or delivery of goods or services.
-- A motor vehicle operated by a rural carrier of the United States Postal Service while serving his or her rural postal route.
The bill would add a provision to Section 710e stating that the operator of a motor vehicle would have to wear a lap belt, but would not be required to wear a shoulder harness, if the operator were operating the vehicle for the purpose of performing road construction or maintenance in a work zone.
MCL 257.710e Legislative Analyst: Drew Krogulecki
FISCAL IMPACT
The bill would have no fiscal impact on the State and an indeterminate fiscal impact on local governments. It is unknown whether the provisions of the bill would increase or decrease the number of civil infractions charged. Any increase in revenue from civil infractions would be dedicated to public libraries. Conversely, a decrease in revenue would reduce revenue to public libraries.
This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.