Measure allows the operation of a mobility device without a driver’s license

State Rep. Beau LaFave testifying before the Transportation Committee on HB 5834. He explained to the committee why his bill was necessary. Under the old law people with battery-powered prosthetic legs would have needed a driver’s license.

State Rep. Beau LaFave’s plan to ensure people with disabilities can operate powered wheelchairs, electric scooters and similar devices without a driver’s license is now law.

LaFave’s law allows people with disabilities to use assistance mobility devices freely in Michigan.  However, when operating on a road, a person must follow pertinent traffic laws and must have a driver’s license.

“People with disabilities will no longer have to fear receiving a ticket for using a powered wheelchair on a sidewalk,” said LaFave, of Iron Mountain. “Allowing people with restricted mobility to live their lives with less government intrusion is a good thing.”

House Bill 5834 is now Public Act 428 of 2018.

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