Rally Urges Lawmakers to Modify Michigan’s 2019 Auto No-Fault Law

Michigan’s Auto No-Fault Law Sparks Rally at State Capitol

In a show of unity and determination, roughly 300 individuals, encompassing United Methodist clergy and congregation members, advocates, and survivors of catastrophic car accidents, assembled at the Michigan state Capitol on Wednesday. Their mission: to engage in prayer, dialogue with legislators, and to rally for changes to the state’s 2019 auto no-fault legislation.

The revised law has resulted in significant payment reductions, leaving many accident survivors with severe spinal and brain injuries facing limited options for long-term care. This includes restricted access to residential rehabilitation, agency-provided home care, and family caregiving beyond 56 hours weekly, even when continuous care is necessary.

State Representative Julie Rogers (D-Kalamazoo) emphasizes the bipartisan desire for reforming the legislation. “Letting insurance companies rather than health professionals dictate what sort of care survivors receive is unacceptable,” she stated.

State Senator Mary Cavanagh (D-Redford Twp.) had previously advanced a Senate bill aimed at increasing compensation for agency home care workers and ensuring family caregivers could be paid for all hours dedicated to caring for injured relatives. However, the initiative was stalled in the House by Democrats Brenda Carter, the Insurance Committee Chair, and House Speaker Joe Tate, amidst a Republican-controlled House.

Undeterred, Cavanagh reaffirmed her commitment at the rally, declaring, “[The] auto no-fault system is a promise that if you ever face a catastrophic accident, that you will have access to care and the resources that you need and paid for. That promise has been broken.”

Statistics from the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association highlight the urgency of the issue, with nearly three individuals daily suffering catastrophic injuries from car accidents. The Association, primarily covering those injured prior to the 2019 legislation, underscores the financial implications of proposed changes.

The Insurance Alliance of Michigan opposes altering the law, citing cost savings for drivers. Their testimony before a Senate committee last year noted that premiums are reduced by approximately $24 annually per vehicle. They further warned that amending the law could potentially increase insurance rates between $100 and $300 per year.