The first Senate bill of the new legislative term addresses the number one problem for many Michigan motorists - the high cost of auto insurance.

Michigan drivers pay the highest car insurance rates in the country, averaging more than 80 percent higher than the national average! While the issue has been debated for some time, new legislation could finally help fix the problem and modernize the system. Senate Bill 1 would reduce the cost of auto insurance, offer more insurance options and ensure accident victims have the medical care they need.

Some of the goals of the Senate auto insurance reform include:

• Allowing drivers to choose the personal injury protection coverage that best meets their needs and budget;
• Reducing medical cost inflation related to auto insurance claims;
• Cracking down on fraud and conflicts of interest; and
• Allowing seniors on Medicare to use that coverage to cover their medical costs.

By making car insurance more affordable, the legislation also aims to reduce the number of uninsured drivers. SB 1 has been referred to the Senate Committee on Insurance and Banking for consideration.

I have introduced legislation to allow certain libraries in Michigan to continue operating as they have successfully done for over 40 years.

Many school and township libraries established before 1978 have been operating in limbo for decades, since their establishing statute no longer exists and there is no clear requirement that they receive state funding.

Senate Bill 62 would allow charter townships with libraries established before 1978 to re-establish the libraries by ordinance or resolution.

I am thrilled to be able to work with Representative Luke Meerman, who has introduced the same legislation in the Michigan House, to solve a problem that is affecting a number of our local libraries here in Ottawa County.

Michigan’s annual Winter Free Fishing Weekend — held Feb. 16 and 17 this year — offers an opportunity to enjoy cold weather fishing. Favorite winter species include yellow perch, bluegill, pike, smelt and walleye. All fishing license fees are waived for the two days. All fishing regulations still apply.

Parking is also free at state parks and recreation areas during the free fishing weekend. Find more details, including information on sponsored events, at www.michigan.gov/freefishing.

The 30th State Senate District includes all of Ottawa county.

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