A change to Michigan law that takes effect Thursday expands the number of misdemeanors that are eligible for a ticket instead of an arrest. The move aims to reduce local jail admissions and prioritize public safety resources.
Law enforcement officials, defense attorneys and advocates for people involved with the justice system in metro Detroit say it remains to be seen whether the change will work as legislators intended or result in unintended consequences.
An appearance ticket or criminal citation tells someone when to appear in court, and officers can use it to cite and release someone instead of arresting them and booking them into jail.
New law could lead to fewer misdemeanor arrests in Michigan
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New law could lead to fewer misdemeanor arrests in Michigan
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Lansing The Michigan House on Wednesday approved two bills that would allow first-drunken driving offenders to have their record expunged and explore Gov. Gretchen Whitmer s willingness to sign legislation similar to what she rejected in January.
The 93-17 vote to pass the bills Wednesday marked the second time the legislation has gained broad support in the House, with a previous version of the bills being vetoed. On Wednesday, 16 of the bills no votes came from House Republicans.
The bills move next to the Michigan Senate for consideration.
Rep. Tenisha Yancey, D-Harper Woods, and Rep. Joe Bellino, R-Monroe, introduced the bills last month with bipartisan support.