Plan featuring choice, key coverage protections sees bipartisan support

State Rep. Michele Hoitenga, of Manton, joined her House colleagues today in giving legislative approval to a proposal that brings lower car insurance prices to residents and families in Northern Michigan.

The plan guarantees lower rates for all drivers in Michigan, mending the state’s broken no-fault system and reducing what currently is the highest average car insurance premium in the nation. The average premium is also twice as high as in neighboring states. The bill gives drivers a choice on car insurance policies, stops price gouging on medical services for car accident victims and combats fraudulent claims to help lower costs.

“When I worked on our Republican Action Plan Committee heading into the current legislative term, more affordable car insurance wasn’t a partisan issue. It was a quality of life issue for residents and families across Northern Michigan and our entire state,” Hoitenga said. “People shared concerns about the immense financial burden car insurance brings and that has resonated with me. It’s why I’m happy to help deliver a plan to the governor that will keep more hard-earned money in people’s pockets while giving drivers a choice in which coverage they want. Choice is the key to bringing rate relief.”

Michigan’s costs are high largely because it’s the only state mandating unlimited lifetime health care coverage through car insurance. The plan allows those currently using the coverage to keep it, and those who want it in the future to continue buying it – while providing more affordable options.

Senate Bill 1 advanced with overwhelming, bipartisan support and will move to the governor for review and probable signature.