The Michigan House today approved a landmark plan to fix our state’s broken car insurance system and reduce rates for all Michigan drivers, state Reps. Julie Alexander and Sarah Lightner announced.

Both Jackson-area representatives voted in favor of a reform plan that will offer drivers personal injury coverage options, rein in medical costs and fight fraud – features designed to end Michigan’s long-standing tenure as the state with the costliest car insurance rates in the nation.

“The Michigan Legislature has heard the concerns of drivers across the state—from Hanover to Houghton. We have delivered a solution,” Alexander, of Hanover, said after the vote. “Today’s auto insurance reform proves that when we roll up our sleeves and work together, we can deliver real results. I have said since day one that while we may not always agree on every issue, we can always agree to work together. I am honored to be a part of the Legislature that brought real cost-savings to Michigan drivers.”

“The skyrocketing cost of auto insurance for Michigan drivers ends today,” Lightner, of Springport, said after the vote. “The reforms I voted for curb the waste, fraud and abuse that has weaseled its way into our auto insurance system and driven up costs. Michigan families have waited too long to see a fix to this broken system. I am proud to say that the wait is almost over; these are real reforms that will bring down the absurd costs to drive in this state.”

Michigan’s auto insurance rates are elevated largely because we’re the only state mandating unlimited lifetime health care coverage through car insurance. The new reform 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.

The plan:

• Guarantees lower rates for all Michigan drivers
• Gives drivers a choice on health coverage options
• Stops price gouging on medical services for car accident victims
• Combats fraudulent claims to help lower costs

The sweeping legislation now advances to the Senate for consideration.