Plan featuring choice, key coverage protections sees bipartisan support

State Rep. Mike Mueller, of Linden, joined his House colleagues today in giving legislative approval to a proposal that brings lower car insurance prices to residents and families in Genesee and Oakland counties.

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.

“The current system is not one that is working for Michigan and I’ve heard loud and clear from residents that it’s not a system that works for their pocketbooks,” said Mueller. “We needed more choice. We needed to keep protections for people that ensure good care when it is needed and we need to send a message that our state is no longer going to stick with the status quo of having the highest car insurance costs in the country.”

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 that will save residents more of their hard-earned money.

Senate Bill 1 will move to the governor for review and possible signature.