Public Media from Michigan State University

Lawmakers Considering Penalties For Failing To Call 911 When Someone Is In Danger

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State lawmakers are debating whether someone should face penalties if they fail to act when they know someone else is in danger.

The Michigan Public Radio Network’s Jake Neher reports.

A state Senate panel is holding hearings on the concept – but no bill has been introduced yet. State Senator Rick Jones says people should have a legal “duty to act” when they know someone faces serious injury or death.

   “And I don’t mean jumping in the water and saving somebody, I mean calling 911,” he says.

Jones says he would support imposing heavy fines in those cases – but not necessarily jail time.

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Jake Neher is a reporter for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He covers the State Legislature and other political events in Lansing.