LANSING — State Rep. Patrick Green (D-Warren) has introduced House Bill 5897 to update Michigan law as it relates to autonomous, driverless, highly automated and connected vehicles. The bill changes Michigan’s automotive technology law, known as the “SAVE Act” to reflect the latest enhancements of personal mobility across all modes of transportation.
“Michigan is known worldwide as the birthplace of the automotive industry, and in recent years we have changed our laws to keep pace with changes in that industry, including more automation and even driverless vehicles. HB 5897 is another important step to keep up with the fast pace of technology, and ensure we stay at the forefront of the automotive game” said Green.
Green’s change to the law reflects a direct recommendation from the Michigan Council on Future Mobility, which released its 2018 Annual Report earlier this year. The report included recommendations concerning cybersecurity as it relates to connected vehicles, liability and insurance, access and equality ensuring that marginalized groups and individuals are brought into the mainstream of mobility and community, and new business models focusing on mobility as a service.
“Transportation is changing. There are new ways for people to get where they need to go, and we need to make sure these opportunities are available to everyone, no matter where they live or how much money they make,” said Green. “Just as the auto industry is changing quickly, we have to make sure our laws keep up so we can continue to attract new businesses and keep our automotive jobs in Michigan. I look forward to talking with my colleagues about these issues, and working with them to see my bill signed into law.”