Transportation (Traffic Safety)

HB 4597 amends Michigan's Vehicle Code to allow local governments (counties, townships, cities, and villages) to set or change speed limits on local highways without requiring a traffic engineering study. Instead, local authorities must first obtain written approval from the chief law enforcement officer (or county sheriff if none exists) and hold a public hearing with at least 14 days' notice. Speed limits established under this bill must be in 5 mph increments and consider factors like public safety, community input, road features, and environmental concerns. This change streamlines local speed limit adjustments while maintaining oversight through law enforcement approval and public engagement.