12/10/04-The House Committee on Criminal Justice failed to approve a bill before the session ended Dec. 9 intended to punish sleepy drivers who cause fatal accidents. The committee’s inaction effectively kills the measure for the year.
HB5707, introduced by Rep. Lorence Wenke, R-Kalamazoo, called for people who drive after going without sleep for more than 24 hours and cause the death of another person to be charged with a misdemeanor. The tired driver could spend up to two years in prison and face a $2,000 fine.
Richard Barkley, a spokesman for Wenke, told Land Line the committee had concerns about enforcement.
Barkley said Wenke intends to reintroduce the measure when lawmakers reconvene next year.

4/7/04-Rep. Lorence Wenke, R-Kalamazoo, introduced a bill that would punish sleepy drivers who cause fatal accidents.
Under HB5707, people who drive after going without sleep for more than 24 hours and cause the death of another person could be charged with a misdemeanor. The tired driver could spend up to 2 years in prison and face a $2,000 fine.
The bill is in the House Committee on Criminal Justice. For bill status, call (517) 373-0630.