Driver Responsibility Fees Could Disappear In Michigan

The Michigan House has unanimously passed legislation that would phase out driver responsibility fees by 2017.

These fees were meant to discourage driving violations and range anywhere from $100 to $2,000 for offenses that range from driving drunk to driving with a suspended license, and more.

Lawmakers have said that these fees are double jeopardy punishments because they're collected in addition to the regular penalties and fees associated with a driving violation. They say that drivers with suspended licenses have continued to drive to work to pay off their fees, which could have made Michigan roads more dangerous.

Under the phasing out plan, the highest responsibility fees would be cut in half starting this October. All of the fees would end after Sept. 30, 2017. The bills have now been passed on to the Senate.