Disabilities: other; penalties for certain violations to provision in use of travel aids by blind persons act; increase. Amends sec. 1a, 2 & 3 of 1937 PA 10 (MCL 752.51a et seq.).
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill increases penalties for drivers who fail to take precautions when approaching blind pedestrians using travel aids like canes, dog guides, or walkers. It clarifies definitions related to blindness and travel aids, and establishes a process for investigating and prosecuting violations. The bill raises the potential penalties for negligent actions resulting in injury or death to the pedestrian or their service animal, including felony charges for serious harm.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘blind’ and related terms (cane, dog guide, crosswalk, service animal).
- Requires drivers to take precautions when approaching blind pedestrians using travel aids.
- Establishes liability for drivers who fail to take precautions, causing injury.
- Creates a process for investigating and prosecuting violations by peace officers and prosecutors.
- Increases misdemeanor penalties for violations of section 2(1) to include imprisonment and fines.
- Raises penalties for grossly negligent violations causing injury or death to a pedestrian or their service animal.
- Establishes felony penalties for gross negligence causing death to a pedestrian or their service animal.
Who is affected
- Blind pedestrians
- Drivers of vehicles
- Peace officers
- Prosecutors
- Service animal handlers
Notable changes
Bill text
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- Senate Introduced Bill
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