Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

Michigan House Bill HB5696

Introduced
4/30/24  
Refer
4/30/24  

Caption

Vehicles: automobiles; noise limitations; modify. Amends secs. 252d, 320a, 707b, 707c, 707d, 732 & 907 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.252d et seq.).

Impact

The changes introduced by HB5696 will likely have significant implications on state laws regarding vehicle operation. This amendment not only seeks to impose stricter noise limitations but also establishes fines and civil penalties related to violations. Law enforcement agencies will be empowered to act upon violations more decisively, thus potentially reducing the frequency of noise complaints and disturbances. The bill is framed as a necessary step to protect community peace while balancing the interests of vehicle owners and manufacturers.

Summary

House Bill 5696 proposes amendments to the Michigan Vehicle Code, specifically modifying sections related to noise limitations from automobiles and enforcement procedures. The bill's intent is to establish clearer guidelines on acceptable noise levels from vehicles to improve public health and safety, particularly in residential areas where noise disturbances can impact the quality of life for residents. Supporters of this legislation argue that setting defined limits will enhance law enforcement's ability to address noise complaints effectively.

Contention

However, the bill has sparked debates among various stakeholders. Critics raise concerns that the noise restrictions could be overly burdensome for certain vehicle users, particularly those operating modified engine systems or whose vehicles are not easily adjustable to meet the new standards. Furthermore, there may be apprehension about the enforcement aspect, with fears that it could lead to subjective interpretations by law enforcement. The balance between maintaining quality of life and allowing personal freedoms remains a pivotal discussion point in the ongoing discourse regarding HB5696.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

MI SB0231

Traffic control: violations; penalties for operating a vehicle while sending or receiving a message on an electronic wireless device; enhance. Amends secs. 320a, 602b, 602c & 732 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.320a et seq.).

MI SB0617

Traffic control: accidents; penalties for moving violation causing physical injury or death to a vulnerable roadway user; enhance. Amends secs. 303, 320a & 601c of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.303 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0618'23, HB 5223'23, HB 5224'23

MI HB4334

Traffic control: accidents; penalties for moving violation causing physical injury or death to a vulnerable roadway user; enhance. Amends secs. 303, 320a, 601c & 653a of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.303 et seq.); adds secs. 79g & 79h & repeals sec. 653b of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.653b). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4335'25

MI SB0216

Traffic control: accidents; penalties for moving violation causing physical injury or death to a vulnerable roadway user; enhance. Amends secs. 303, 320a, 601c & 653a of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.303 et seq.); adds secs. 79g & 79h & repeals sec. 653b of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.653b). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0217'25

MI SB0241

Traffic control: violations; forwarding abstract of record or report to secretary of state for penalties for operating a vehicle while sending or receiving a message on an electronic wireless device; enhance. Amends secsc. 602c, 732 & 907 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.602c et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0239'23, SB 0240'23

MI HB4251

Traffic control: driver license; penalties for operating a vehicle while sending or receiving a message on an electronic wireless device; enhance. Amends secs. 319b, 320a & 320d of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.319b et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4250'23, HB 4252'23

MI SB0706

Traffic control: driver license; removal of failure to pay driver responsibility fees from centralized driving record; provide for. Amends secs. 204a, 304, 312f, 320e, 732a & 904 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.204a et seq.) & repeals secs. 732b & 732d of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.732b & 257.732d).

MI HB5103

Traffic control: driver license; certain requirements for obtaining a driver license; remove. Amends secs. 303 & 304 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.303 & 257.304).