Bellino’s bill ending driver responsibility fees signed into law

Gov. Rick Snyder has signed legislation authored by State Rep. Joe Bellino that brings punitive driver responsibility fees to an end on Oct. 1.
Bellino, R-Monroe, introduced the measure, which was passed by the Legislature last month as part of a multi-bill package to end the fees and offer full forgiveness of outstanding debt. The elimination is a full year ahead of the 2019 date that fees were scheduled to cease.
“People who are forced to pay driver responsibility fees get nothing in return except increased debt and, in many cases, job loss for lack of transportation,” Bellino said. “I am proud to be a part of bringing these ill-conceived fees to an end and enabling Michigan families to escape the crushing debt brought on by the fees.”
In addition to Bellino’s bill eliminating the fees as of Oct. 1, legislation enables people who lost their driving privileges to regain them without paying the reinstatement fee now through Dec. 31. People on monthly payment plans will receive immediate debt forgiveness, and others may participate in workplace development training programs to regain their driver’s licenses prior to Oct. 1.
“These fees have negatively impacted hundreds of thousands of Michigan families since their enactment in 2003, and it is high time we bring them to an end,” Bellino said. “We are empowering people to get back behind the wheel and take part in Michigan’s remarkable comeback.”
Rep. Bellino’s district includes Sumpter Township.