Shelby Review

This week, Michigan State Representative Josh Schriver (R-Utica) announced increasing support for House Bill 4597, a measure that would give local residents and township officials more control over setting speed limits on local roads. The bill aims to address concerns about current state-level processes for determining speed limits, which Schriver argues do not always reflect the needs or safety priorities of individual communities.

Schriver emphasized the importance of local input in a statement: "I’m especially honored to have the support of Oakland Township Supervisor Robin Buxar on this initiative. We released a joint statement last week to further amplify the need to adopt this policy as soon as possible. Click here to view it for yourself. I’m encouraged by the increasing number of residents across our area who are rallying behind this common-sense legislation."

He highlighted that many roads in Northern Oakland and Macomb Counties were originally designed for lighter traffic but now face heavier use, leading to safety concerns for families, pedestrians, and cyclists. Schriver criticized the current system, stating: "The system for setting speed limits is failing our communities." He noted that state police typically determine speed limits based on how fast most drivers already travel, which may not account for unique local conditions.

According to Schriver, Michigan’s Constitution grants townships reasonable control over their roads, but he said that bureaucratic delays often slow down changes. "That’s why reforms to the entire process are needed…right now!" he stated.

House Bill 4597 has bipartisan backing from nine state representatives and proposes several changes:

- Shifting final authority over local road speed limits from the Michigan State Police to local governing bodies (excluding state highways and freeways).

- Keeping state guidelines as non-binding recommendations.

- Requiring approval from local law enforcement before changes are made.

- Applying these provisions only to roads under local jurisdiction.

Schriver described the bill as a way to empower communities while maintaining public safety standards. "This legislation doesn’t just empower local officials—it allows the option to respond to real-world safety issues with less red tape," he said.

He also expressed gratitude for community support: "I deeply appreciate the steadfast support of Oakland Township Supervisor Robin Buxar, along with the growing number of residents backing this much-needed policy change."

Schriver encouraged constituents interested in supporting HB 4597 to contact members of the Michigan House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee ahead of its expected consideration in the fall.