Civil rights: speech and assembly; blocking a state highway while participating in an assembly of individuals; prohibit, and provide for a misdemeanor. Amends sec. 676b of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.676b).
Impact
If enacted, HB 4664 would strengthen the legal framework surrounding traffic regulation by imposing stricter penalties on individuals who disrupt traffic during assemblies. The bill specifies that individuals participating in protests or assemblies that block traffic could face significant fines and even imprisonment for violations. This could deter similar disruptive protests in the future, signaling a shift towards prioritizing traffic flow and public safety over unfettered protest rights. Proponents of the bill argue that it is necessary for maintaining public order and safety.
Summary
House Bill 4664 amends the Michigan Vehicle Code by modifying section 676b to prohibit individuals from blocking, obstructing, or impeding the flow of traffic on public streets or highways. The bill clarifies the conditions under which individuals, particularly those participating in assemblies of ten or more, can be charged with a misdemeanor if their actions interfere with vehicular movement. This legislation is in the context of broader discussions surrounding civil rights and public safety, reflecting ongoing concerns about balancing freedom of assembly with orderly traffic management.
Contention
Notably, the bill has raised concerns among civil rights advocates and community groups. Critics argue that it disproportionately targets peaceful assembly, particularly for marginalized communities that rely on public demonstrations to advocate for their rights. The potential criminalization of assembly on highways has sparked a debate on the extent to which the government can impose restrictions on civil liberties, with some opponents viewing it as an unjust encroachment on the right to protest. These discussions are crucial as they signify tension between governmental authority and individual freedoms.
Vehicles: wreckers; guidelines for towing rates and practices; provide for. Amends secs. 252a, 252d, 252e, 252f, 252g, 252k, 252l, 676c, 676d & 907 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.252a et seq.); adds secs. 68a, 252n & 252o & ch. IIA & repeals sec. 676c of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.676c). TIE BAR WITH: HB 6063'24
Highways: other; designation of high-occupancy vehicle lanes by agency having jurisdiction over the highway; provide for. Amends sec. 642 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.642).
Vehicles: wreckers; use of flares and blue lights on tow trucks; allow. Amends secs. 2, 698, 716 & 907 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.2 et seq.) & adds sec. 682d.
Recreation: trails; prohibition for wheeled vehicles from driving on snowmobile trails from December 1 to March 31; provide for. Amends secs. 82101 & 82110 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.82101 & 324.82110) & adds sec. 82163. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4458'23
Traffic control: traffic regulation; requirement to drive in the right-hand lane of a roadway with 2 lanes for travel in 1 direction; modify. Amends sec. 634 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.634).
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.).