Michigan Senate Bill SB0949

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/7/26
• Refer: 5/7/26

Caption

Highways: bridges; requirement to pay a toll after a closure; prohibit. Amends sec. 12 of 1952 PA 214 (MCL 254.322).

Summary

SB 949 would amend the Mackinac Bridge Act to prohibit the Mackinac Bridge Authority from charging tolls after an unscheduled bridge closure lasting longer than 90 minutes. Under the bill, once such a closure occurs, tolls could not be collected until the later of two conditions: three hours after the bridge reopens, or the point at which the traffic backup caused by the closure has cleared the bridge structure before the toll plaza. The bill leaves intact the general rule that all bridge users must pay tolls and charges set by the authority, as well as existing exemptions for authority personnel and vehicles on duty and for authorized emergency vehicles responding to emergencies. It also retains the misdemeanor penalty for failure to pay tolls. In effect, the measure creates a temporary toll suspension tied specifically to significant, unscheduled bridge disruptions.

Impact

The bill would amend section 12 of 1952 PA 214, codified at MCL 254.322, by adding a toll-free period after qualifying bridge closures. This would directly affect the Mackinac Bridge Authority’s toll-collection practices and could reduce toll revenue following major closures, while providing relief to motorists delayed by bridge shutdowns. It does not alter the authority’s broader powers, the criminal penalty for toll evasion, or the existing exemptions for authority and emergency vehicles.

Sentiment

The available record shows no committee transcript or recorded votes, so there is no documented public debate in the materials provided. Based on the bill text and caption, the measure appears aimed at fairness to motorists affected by unexpected bridge closures rather than changing routine toll policy. The overall tone of the proposal is practical and narrowly targeted.

Contention

The main policy issue is whether tolls should be suspended after a prolonged unscheduled closure, balancing traveler relief against the Mackinac Bridge Authority’s need to collect revenue and manage operations. Supporters would likely emphasize that drivers should not pay immediately after being delayed by a closure, while opponents could argue that the authority should retain discretion to charge tolls once the bridge reopens or that the revenue loss could affect bridge operations. No specific stakeholder positions are included in the provided materials.