A new bill has been introduced to grant townships, cities, and villages the authority to set or adjust speed limits on local roads. This legislative move aims to address safety concerns from residents in rural areas who have reported unsafe driving speeds on dirt roads near residential subdivisions. The legislation excludes state highways and freeways, while county roads remain under county jurisdiction. Communities without an in-house civil engineer can request a speed study from the Michigan State Police.
The bill has bipartisan support with seven Republican lawmakers and one Democrat backing it.
Additionally, a co-sponsored bill requires all state government communications to label services as “taxpayer-provided” rather than “free.” This reform is intended to promote transparency and honesty regarding publicly funded services.
Another significant development is House Resolution 118, which seeks the impeachment of Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson for allegedly violating Michigan law. The resolution accuses her of issuing illegal signature verification guidance and refusing compliance with subpoenas related to election training materials.
In other legislative actions, HB 4285 passed with strong support, allowing schools to offer an optional firearm safety elective. HB 4420 mandates public disclosure of enhancement grants before passing budget bills. Meanwhile, HB 4401 proposes a permanent $25 pheasant hunting license fee but faced opposition due to concerns over additional costs for hunters.
Further reforms include HB 4113–4114 aimed at supporting small businesses by increasing liquor discounts and providing fairer paths for business owners addressing past violations. Other bills passed include designating a memorial bridge for Lance Corporal Michael W. Hanks (HB 4189), emergency vehicle use reform (HB 4301–4302), protecting retiree-only health plans (HB 4464), sale of excess public land in Eaton County (HB 4023), and land redevelopment rights for Jackson County (HB 4135).
