Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

Michigan Senate Bill SB0565

Introduced
10/5/23  

Caption

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for driver causing death of blind person or dog guide in crosswalk; enact. Amends sec. 17b, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.17b). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0564'23

Impact

The proposed changes under SB 565 are expected to enhance the protection of people with disabilities on Michigan roads. It could also lead to stricter enforcement against negligent drivers who may not adequately prioritize the safety of blind pedestrians. If enacted, these modifications would align with broader state efforts to ensure equitable treatment for individuals with disabilities and foster a safer environment for all road users.

Summary

Senate Bill 565 seeks to amend the Michigan Penal Code with respect to sentencing guidelines specifically concerning negligent driving incidents leading to the death of blind individuals or guide dogs in crosswalks. This bill modifies existing sections to establish clearer consequences for offenders who fail to avoid inflicting harm on these vulnerable populations while driving. By reiterating the obligations of drivers in such situations, the bill aims to reinforce the importance of pedestrian safety, particularly for individuals who rely on guide dogs for mobility.

Contention

While the bill aims to improve safety, there may be points of contention regarding the perceived severity of the proposed penalties. Advocates for the blind community may argue that the current legal repercussions for negligent driving are insufficient, while critics could express concerns about the practical implications of enforcing new guidelines. Balancing the protection of vulnerable populations against the rights of drivers, particularly in terms of reasonable expectations and punishments, represents a significant area for debate surrounding this legislation.

Companion Bills

MI SB0564

Same As Disabilities: other; penalties for certain violations to provision in use of travel aids by blind persons act; increase. Amends secs. 1a & 3 of 1937 PA 10 (MCL 752.51a & 752.53).

Previously Filed As

MI HB5404

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for driver causing death of blind person or dog guide in crosswalk; enact. Amends sec. 17b, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.17b).

MI SB0389

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for driver causing death of blind person or dog guide in crosswalk; enact. Amends sec. 17b, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.17b). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0388'25

MI HB4528

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for driver causing death of blind person or dog guide in crosswalk; enact. Amends sec. 17b, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.17b). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4527'25

MI HB5570

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; guidelines for dissemination of deep fake sexual images; enact. Amends sec. 17b, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.17b).

MI HB4048

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; guidelines for dissemination of deep fake sexual images; enact. Amends sec. 17b, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.17b). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4047'25

MI HB5878

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines; update. Amends sec. 11b, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.11b). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5877'24

MI HB5715

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for certain crimes; update. Amends secs. 11b, 12e, 12f, 13m, 13n, 14a, 14h, 15d, 16d, 16f, 16g, 16i, 16j, 16k, 16l, 16m, 16p, 16q, 16r, 16s, 16t, 16w, 16x, 16y, 16bb, 17b & 17g, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.11b et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5704'24, HB 5709'24, HB 5711'24, HB 5707'24, HB 5712'24, HB 5708'24, HB 5705'24, HB 5706'24, HB 5714'24, HB 5713'24, HB 5710'24

MI SB0693

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for certain violations of the camp licensing act; provide for. Amends sec. 15g, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.15g). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0692'24

MI SB0782

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for penalties related to certain false reports of animal abuse or neglect; provide for. Amends sec. 16b, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.16b). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0783'24

MI HB4738

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for killing or causing serious physical harm to a police dog, police horse, or a search and rescue dog; modify. Amends sec. 16b, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.16b). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4732'25

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.