Bill > HB4528

This bill amends the Michigan sentencing guidelines by adding two new criminal offenses related to drivers causing the death of blind pedestrians or their service animals. Specifically, the bill introduces two new provisions: first, a Class C felony for a driver approaching a pedestrian crossing in a grossly negligent manner that results in the death of a blind pedestrian, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years; and second, a Class E felony for a driver approaching a pedestrian crossing in a grossly negligent manner that results in the death of a blind pedestrian's service animal, with a maximum sentence of 5 years. The bill also makes a technical correction to an existing statute regarding nitrous oxide device distribution. Additionally, the bill includes a tie-bar provision, meaning it will only take effect if a companion bill (Senate Bill No. S01723'25 or House Bill No. 4527) is also enacted into law. The amendment updates the sentencing guidelines chapter to include these new offenses, reflecting a legislative intent to provide specific legal protections for blind pedestrians and their service animals when crossing streets.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-4528