EMERGENCY VEHICLE LIGHTS ON ROOF

Senate Bill 46 as passed by the Senate

Sponsor:  Sen. Dale W. Zorn

House Committee:  Transportation and Infrastructure

Senate Committee:  Transportation

Complete to 3-27-17                                                                          (Enrolled Version)

SUMMARY:

Under the Michigan Vehicle Code (MCL 257.698), the use or possession of flashing, oscillating, or rotating lights of any color is prohibited except under certain circumstances. Under one of those circumstances, an "authorized emergency vehicle" may be equipped with flashing, rotating, or oscillating red lights for use when responding to an emergency call if, when in use, the lights are mounted on the roof section of the vehicle, either as a permanent installation or by means of suction cups or magnets, and are clearly visible in a 360-degree arc from a distance of 500 feet when in use.  A person who operates lights under this provision except when responding to an emergency call is guilty of a misdemeanor.

Senate Bill 46 would retain the visibility requirement but delete the requirement that the lights be mounted on the roof.

FISCAL IMPACT:  

The bill would have no fiscal impact to the state government. Possible decreases in revenue to local governments from the potential loss of revenue from violation fines would be negligible.

                                                                                        Legislative Analyst:   E. Best

                                                                                                Fiscal Analyst:   Michael Cnossen     

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.