State Rep. Greg Markkanen discusses a plan to lower car insurance rates with a colleague before the House took the historic vote today.

State Rep. Greg Markkanen today joined his colleagues in approving a bipartisan plan to significantly lower car insurance rates for drivers across the state.

The House overwhelmingly voted to approve legislation guaranteeing lower rates by giving drivers more choice on personal injury protection coverage, stopping price gouging on medical services for car accident victims, and combating fraudulent claims. The plan should soon head to the governor for her expected signature.

Markkanen, of Hancock, said the bipartisan solution is designed to end Michigan’s long tenure as the state with the most expensive car insurance rates in the nation.

“The high cost of Michigan’s car insurance is one of the most common complaints I hear from people in our community,” Markkanen said. “We’ve listened to their concerns and produced a solution that will make driving more affordable for families and seniors in the Upper Peninsula and all across Michigan.”

Michigan’s costs are high largely because it’s the only state mandating unlimited lifetime health care coverage through car insurance. The bipartisan reform 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 choices.

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