LANSING – In a move to ease the financial burden on military families, State Representative Robert Dean (D-Grand Rapids) today voted for a plan that will make it easier for servicemembers who are called to active duty to terminate auto leases without having to pay penalties.
"We must do everything we can to relieve the financial strain on our brave servicemen and servicewomen and their families," Dean said. "The courageous members of our armed forces already have enough concerns – they shouldn't have to worry about financial hardships their service may cause them. Passing this plan is the least we can do for those who fight for our freedom."
Under the plan that passed the House with overwhelming support, servicemembers called to active duty for 180 days or more and their spouses would be allowed to terminate their auto lease without having to pay penalties. Auto leasing agents who charge penalties would face a fine of $1,000 for each violation. All fines would be deposited into the Military Family Relief Fund.
The Military Family Relief Fund provides up to $2,000 a year for the families of Michigan servicemembers who are on active duty or who have suffered an illness or disability on active duty. The Military Family Relief Fund, administered by the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, distributes the money to struggling families for clothing, food, housing, utilities, medical services or prescriptions, vehicle payments or other necessities.
"The members of our armed forces and their families make great sacrifices when servicemembers are called to active duty," Dean said. "Patriotism means more than waving a flag – it means standing up and helping the defenders of our country when they need us the most. I am proud to stand up and show my gratitude to the people who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe."