Veterans and Emergency Services

HB 4189 names a specific bridge on South Grand Avenue over I-96 in Fowlerville as the "LCpl Michael W. Hanks Memorial Bridge" to commemorate a fallen Marine. The bill requires the state transportation department and Livingston County road commission to install signs at both approaches of the bridge designating its new name. This is a purely commemorative measure with no policy changes or financial impact, directly affecting the bridge location and signage in Fowlerville. It amends Michigan's Memorial Highway Act to add this designation without altering transportation policies or funding.

Michigan Senate Bill 1132 creates a dedicated Camp Grayling improvement fund within the state treasury to finance upgrades and maintenance for the military training facility. The fund is financed by collecting fees, rents, and other revenue generated from the operation or leasing of the base, as well as any gifts or grants specifically designated for its improvement. These funds may be used for capital projects, environmental remediation including PFAS cleanup, infrastructure upgrades, and support for local defense industries. To ensure transparency, the department of military and veterans affairs must submit an annual report to state legislators detailing all deposits, expenditures, and active projects, while retaining legal protections that classify these activities as governmental functions rather than commercial ones.

HB 5636 designates a specific segment of Telegraph Road (US-24 between 9 Mile Road and 14 Mile Road) as the "Deputy Claude Wilson Memorial Highway." This bill is purely commemorative, naming a roadway section in honor of Deputy Claude Wilson without altering any traffic laws, funding, or infrastructure. It amends Michigan's Memorial Highway Act by adding Section 123 to formally establish the highway name. The bill has been introduced but not yet acted upon by the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

This bill designates a specific section of Auburn Road in Rochester Hills as the "Sheriff Deputy Brad Reckling Memorial Highway" to honor a fallen law enforcement officer. It amends the Michigan Memorial Highway Act to officially name the road segment between Adams Road and Rochester Road. The change applies only to the local roadway and does not alter existing traffic laws or funding procedures.

HB 4301 expands Michigan's definition of "authorized emergency vehicle" in the Vehicle Code (MCL 257.2 and 257.698) to include specific new categories. It adds vehicles owned by the Michigan Mutual Aid Box Alarm System during emergencies, clarifies that road service vehicles (like tow trucks) may use flashing amber lights while assisting disabled vehicles, and allows federally recognized nonprofits to use emergency lights during disaster response. The bill also clarifies when certain colored lights (red, blue, amber, green) may be used on emergency vehicles, including for snow removal, spill response, and funeral processions. This directly affects emergency responders, road service providers, and nonprofit organizations during crisis operations.