Secretary of State Ruth Johnson praises elimination of Driver Responsibility Fees

JUNE 27, 2014

J ohnson thanks governor, lawmakers for taking action

LANSING, Mich. Secretary of State Ruth Johnson today praised the elimination of
Driver Responsibility Fees after Gov. Rick Snyder signed legislation that eliminates the
fees.
"Driver Responsibility Fees have been a costly burden on Michigan residents and I'm
pleased they're being eliminated," Johnson said. "I thank Gov. Snyder and lawmakers
for taking action to remove this double penalty for people who already have to pay fines,
court costs and usually face higher insurance rates for violations. These extra fees have
made things tougher for many families across the state."
Johnson voted against the creation of the fees in 2003 when she served in the Michigan
House and has worked to see them reduced and eliminated as secretary of state. In
2011, Johnson successfully pushed for the repeal of $150 and $200 Driver
Responsibility Fees for minor violations.
The legislation the governor signed into law was House Bill 5414, sponsored by Rep.
Joe Haveman, R-Holland, and is now Public Act 250. The legislation reduces the fees
over five years annually until none will be assessed.
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For media questions, please call Gisgie Dvila Gendreau at 517-373-2520.