(LANSING) - Michigan State lawmakers are considering a bill that would create some of the strictest licensing requirements for older citizens.
Senate Bill 847, which was introduced by Democratic Senator Rosemary Bayer, would make it mandatory for drivers age 75 and older to pass a vision exam, a road skills test and a written knowledge test every four years to maintain their license.
When a driver reaches the age of 85, the requirements would then become yearly.
The legislation looks to address what many proponents call a "hole in the system" regarding the oversight of aging motorists.
The drive to get stricter testing is due to the rise in accidents involving older residents. According to information from the 2024 Michigan Traffic Crash Facts, drivers 65 year of age and older were involved in 279 fatal crashes and over 11,000 injury related incidents.
The bill was also partially motivated by a crash that happened in 2024 when a 94 year old driver fatally struck a woman after a rear end collision.
Many senior citizens say the bill unfairly targets their demographic and infringes on their independence. Those who support the bill say it's a logical step to make sure the public is safe on Michigan roads.
The bill has been referred to the Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.