Michigan House Bill HB4809

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/26/25
• Refer: 8/26/25
• Report Pass: 9/30/25
• Report Pass: 12/11/25

Caption

Highways: bridges; tolling enforcement program; provide for. Amends title & sec. 219 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.219) & adds secs. 820a & 820b.

Impact

The implications of HB4809 on state laws could be significant, particularly in how vehicle registration is managed in relation to toll compliance. If passed, the law would compel drivers to settle their toll payments in order to avoid complications with their vehicle registrations. This would effectively integrate toll compliance into the vehicle registration process, which may deter drivers from evading payment but could also pose challenges for drivers who may dispute alleged unpaid tolls.

Summary

House Bill 4809 aims to amend the Michigan Vehicle Code by introducing provisions for a tolling enforcement program, which will allow for the collection of unpaid tolls on international toll bridges and tunnels. The bill empowers the Secretary of State to refuse vehicle registrations based on unpaid toll infractions, effectively creating a system where toll compliance can directly affect a vehicle owner's ability to register or transfer the registration of their vehicle. Additionally, it establishes a formal process for operators of toll bridges and tunnels to enter into reciprocity agreements with other states or tolling entities to enforce toll payments across jurisdictions.

Contention

Some points of contention around this bill may include concerns regarding the fairness and accuracy of toll collection methods. Critics may argue that the automatic refusal of registration could create undue burdens on individuals who dispute unpaid toll claims or those who may not have been aware of their obligations. Additionally, the bill necessitates certain administrative procedures that operators must adhere to when notifying the Secretary of State about unpaid tolls, which could lead to further debate about the administrative efficiency and equity of the proposed processes.