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HB 6245

Recreation: other; operation of certain vehicles under the influence of marihuana; prohibit. Amends secs. 80103, 80104, 80176, 80181, 80182, 80183, 80187, 81101, 81134, 81136, 81137, 81144, 82101, 82127, 82137, 82138, 82139 & 82143 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.80103 et. seq.).

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Carrie Rheingans and 1 co-sponsor

Michigan bill prohibits operating recreational vehicles while impaired by marijuana, extending DUI-type protections to snowmobiles and off-road vehicles statewide.

bill electronically reproduced 12/04/2024
#marihuana:other #recreation:other #vehicles:off-road #vehicles:snowmobiles #watercraft:other #watercraft:violations
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Bill Summary · HB 6245

Legislative bill overview

HB 6245 amends Michigan's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to prohibit the operation of recreational vehicles (snowmobiles, off-road vehicles, and similar motorized equipment) while under the influence of marijuana. The bill modifies multiple sections of the 1994 PA 451 statute to establish impaired operation standards for these recreational activities, similar to existing drunk driving prohibitions.

Why is this important

As recreational marijuana use is now legal in Michigan, this bill addresses a regulatory gap by extending impaired operation laws to recreational vehicles, which carry significant safety risks. The legislation aims to reduce accidents, injuries, and fatalities among recreational vehicle operators while establishing enforceable standards for law enforcement.

Potential points of contention

  • Impairment testing challenges: Unlike alcohol breathalyzers, there is no standardized, roadside test for marijuana impairment, making enforcement and prosecution more complex and potentially raising due process concerns
  • Definitional ambiguity: The bill does not clearly specify THC concentration thresholds or impairment standards, which could create inconsistent enforcement across jurisdictions
  • Medical marijuana complications: Users with valid medical marijuana cards may face legal liability even if their use is medically necessary, potentially conflicting with disability protections

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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