Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

Michigan Senate Bill SB0779

Introduced
2/11/26  

Caption

Vehicles: driver training; instruction on slow-down and move-over laws; require. Amends sec. 39 of 2006 PA 384 (MCL 256.659).

Impact

The bill's amendments aim to enhance road safety by ensuring new drivers are thoroughly prepared and experienced before advancing to more intense driving scenarios. This could potentially reduce the number of accidents involving novice drivers, as it emphasizes not only practical driving skills but also understanding laws related to emergency vehicles and anatomical gifts. The requirement for instructional content about making anatomical gifts is notable, as it connects driver education with broader public health considerations, potentially improving awareness among young drivers.

Summary

Senate Bill 779 seeks to amend the existing legislation on driver education in Michigan, specifically the Driver Education Provider and Instructor Act from 2006. The bill primarily focuses on outlining additional requirements for the second segment of driver education courses, ensuring that students fulfill certain prerequisites before they can enroll in these advanced courses. These prerequisites include the successful completion of a segment 1 course, holding a valid level 1 graduated driver license for at least three months, and acquiring a minimum of 30 hours of driving experience, which must incorporate at least 2 hours of night driving.

Contention

While the intent of SB 779 seems to align with promoting safe driving practices, there may be concerns regarding the implications of increasing the requirements for obtaining a higher-level license. Critics may argue that such amendments could make it more challenging for young drivers to progress through their licensing process, potentially placing an undue burden on those who may already struggle with access to driving education. Additionally, the necessity for classroom hours could be seen as a logistical challenge, possibly reducing enrollment in these programs if they are perceived as too time-consuming or demanding.

Last_action

The latest available actions regarding SB 779 have not been recorded, leaving questions about its progression through the legislative process. Stakeholders in driver education and students alike will be interested in how these regulatory changes may unfold, especially concerning any potential modifications or compromises that could arise from legislative discussions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MI SB0778

Vehicles: driver training; instruction on slow-down and move-over laws; require. Amends sec. 309 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.309).

MI SB0356

Vehicles: driver training; instructor of a driver education instructor preparation course; modify requirements to become. Amends sec. 23 of 2006 PA 384 (MCL 256.643).

MI HB4842

Vehicles: driver training; instructor of a driver education instructor preparation course; modify requirements to become. Amends sec. 23 of 2006 PA 384 (MCL 256.643).

MI A08317

Requires all vehicles move over or slow down for parked, stopped and standing vehicles on highways, requiring the inclusion of at least one question regarding such requirement on the state driver's license examination, and requires public education measures on such requirement.

MI HB5767

Vehicles: driver training; instruction in work zone safety; require. Amends 2006 PA 384 (MCL 256.621 - 256.705) by adding sec. 40. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5768'26

MI HB4195

Traffic control: driver license; citizenship or legal presence requirement for obtaining a driver license; remove. Amends secs. 50a, 51a, 232, 302, 303, 307 & 314 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.50a et seq.).

MI HB5808

School aid: penalties; exception to minimum days of pupil instruction requirement for certain closures; modify. Amends sec. 101 of 1979 PA 94 (MCL 388.1701).

MI SB0334

Law enforcement: training; mental health and law enforcement response training; require for law enforcement officers. Amends title of 1965 PA 203 (MCL 28.601 - 28.615) & adds secs. 9f & 9g. TIE BAR WITH: SB 341'25

MI HB5800

School aid: penalties; exception to minimum days of pupil instruction requirement for inclement weather; revise. Amends sec. 101 of 1979 PA 94 (MCL 388.1701).

MI HB5363

Education: curriculum; parental opt-out option for instruction in sex education; require. Amends sec. 1507 of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1507).

Similar Bills

AZ HB2069

Instructional time models; posting requirements

AZ HB4038

Public schools; first day; restriction

MI SB0453

Education: curriculum; curriculum requirements; modify. Amends sec. 1278 of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1278) & adds secs. 1164, 1164a, 1164c, 1164d, 1164e, 1164f & 1164g.

MI HB4687

Education: curriculum; curriculum requirements; modify. Amends sec. 1278 of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1278) & adds secs. 1164, 1164a, 1164c, 1164d, 1164e, 1164f & 1164g.

HI HB63

Relating To Education.

HI HB63

Relating To Education.

CA AB1454

Pupil literacy: credential program standards and professional development: instructional materials.

TX HB100

Relating to the purchase, adoption, and use of instructional materials by public schools.