Michigan House Bill HB4664

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/17/25
• Refer: 6/17/25

Caption

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.