Michigan Senate Bill SB0578

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/18/25
• Refer: 9/18/25

Caption

Highways: bridges; movable bridge fund; modify. Amends secs. 10a & 11g of 1951 PA 51 (MCL 247.660a & 247.661g).

Impact

If passed, SB 578 is expected to provide a more streamlined financial mechanism for the allocation of transportation funds, ensuring that local entities receive appropriate financial support based on the jurisdictional transfers. It reinforces the state's commitment to maintaining and improving the network of public roads while managing the funds effectively. The establishment of the movable bridge fund is particularly significant, as it addresses the operational costs associated with publicly owned movable bridges, ensuring that such structures are adequately maintained and funded.

Summary

Senate Bill 578 aims to amend sections of the 1951 PA 51, which governs the classification of public roads and the functioning of the Michigan transportation fund. The bill proposes updates to the existing provisions, particularly focusing on how funds are allocated between various jurisdictions—state, county, city, and village—in relation to road maintenance and infrastructure. A key aspect of this bill is the annual determination of the mileage of roads being transferred between jurisdictions and the financial implications of these transfers based on a calculated average revenue worth per mile.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as a necessary adjustment to existing infrastructure laws, there may be debate over specific aspects like how the funding calculations could affect smaller jurisdictions. Concerns could be raised regarding funding fairness, especially for municipalities that might not have the same revenue levels or road use as larger cities. The balance of appropriating sufficient funds for movable bridge operations without compromising the maintenance of other road infrastructures could also be a point of contention among local governments.