SPACE BETWEEN TRUCKS IN A PLATOON

House Bill 5749 as introduced

Sponsor:  Rep. Michael Webber

Committee:  Transportation and Infrastructure

Complete to 4-24-18

SUMMARY:

Under the Michigan Vehicle Code, the operator of a truck or truck tractor, when traveling on a highway outside of a business or residence district, and when conditions permit, must leave sufficient space between the vehicle and another truck or truck tractor so that an overtaking vehicle may enter and occupy the space without danger.

House Bill 5749 would amend the Code to specify that the above requirement does not apply to a vehicle in a platoon. (However, a truck or truck tractor traveling on a highway in a platoon is required under current law to allow reasonable access for other vehicles to have safe movement among lanes to enter or exit the highway. The bill would retain this provision.)

MCL 257.643a

FISCAL IMPACT:

The bill would likely have a minimal impact, if any, on state or local costs or revenues. Depending on the number of drivers who would receive civil infractions under Section 643a as it currently exists, but would not receive them under the provisions of the bill, HB 5749 could result in a decrease in the amount of revenue going to the state Justice System Fund (JSF). Civil infraction penalty revenue that goes to the JSF supports various justice-related endeavors in the judicial branch and the Departments of State Police, Corrections, and Health and Human Services.

                                                                                        Legislative Analyst:   E. Best

                                                                                                Fiscal Analyst:   Robin Risko

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.