LANSING – In a move that will keep our residents safe, the House today passed a plan by State Representative Robert Dean (D-Grand Rapids) that increases protections for operators and passengers of Michigan's public transit systems.
"A safe public transportation system will entice employers to locate in Michigan and bring good-paying jobs to our state," Dean said. "Public transportation is also important because it keeps our air clean and holds down traffic congestion. We must do what we can to boost the use of buses, trains and other forms of public transportation, and this plan will do just that."
The plan strengthens Michigan's public transit systems by making it a felony to injure an employee, operator or passenger of a public transit vehicle, including people at bus stops or stations.
The penalty for causing bodily injury to anyone in those categories would be two years in prison and a $2,000 fine. For an injury requiring medical attention, the penalty would increase to four years in prison and $5,000. If the victim's injury results in serious impairment, the perpetrator could be sent to prison for 10 years and fined $10,000.
Dean noted that 800 bus drivers of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 26 in Detroit walked off their jobs last year over crime and safety issues.
"For many people, a bus is the only way for them to get to their job, their doctor's appointment or the grocery store," Dean said. "Unfortunately, public transportation drivers and their passengers are often put in unsafe situations, and we have to send a strong message that we take their well-being very seriously. People should feel secure when they're using public transportation – it's as simple as that."