By Laura Weber, Michigan Public Radio Network
LANSING, MI –
Michigan's driver responsibility fees may soon face a slow repeal at the state Capitol. A state Senate panel is discussing a measure that would prohibit the fees from being assessed for driving without a license or proof of insurance.
Judge Charles LaSata was in the state Legislature and voted for driver responsibility fees in 2003. He told lawmakers that he now knows the fees were a mistake.
"Now, with the faltering economy, the manufacturing jobs that have been lost, and the tighter economic situation that many people find themselves in, it, candidly, is extremely difficult for many people to pay these fees," he says. "And without transportation, their job prospects are even lessened."
The annual fees are charged to drivers with seven or more points on their license, and for some specific violations. It can range from $100 to $1,000. Many lawmakers want to do away with the fees altogether, but know the state relies too heavily on the revenue.