LANSING – The House today passed the final version of a plan crafted by State Representative Kathy Angerer (D-Dundee) to increase driver safety in Michigan by allowing side- and rear-view video displays to be installed on vehicles. The plan, which has received the support of the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, now heads to the governor's desk to be signed into law.
"This plan protects our drivers and passengers while allowing Michigan's auto manufacturers to offer their customers the latest safety features," Angerer said. "Michigan's cutting-edge manufacturers and highly skilled workers have always led the way when it comes to the latest advances in automotive technology. By updating the Michigan Vehicle Code, this plan gives our manufacturers the freedom they need to install the technologically-advanced safety features that customers demand."
This plan makes common-sense changes to the Michigan Vehicle Code that will:
- Permit video displays that enhance a driver's view of the road. Under the current code, only rear-view cameras that are activated when the vehicle is in reverse or stands motionless are allowed.
- Prohibit video displays that may obstruct a driver's view of the road.
- Allow video displays to be installed on emergency vehicles.
- Only restrict video devices that would be a distraction while the vehicle is in motion.
Angerer received support for her plan, House Bill 5021, from both sides of the aisle. The House first approved
Angerer's plan in October 2007 and sent it to the Senate. After four months, the Senate tacked on minor technical
changes, and sent the bill back to the House on Thursday to approve and send to the governor's desk.
"We must do everything we can to protect the jobs of the men and women who work hard every day to
build our cars," Angerer said. "In addition to promoting our auto industry, this plan can save lives. New technologies,
such as side-view video displays, can mean the difference between a driver seeing – or missing – a
pedestrian or a young child riding a bike."