State Representative Jeff Noble's Legislative Update

Over the past month we have been hard at work in the legislature.

As a strong believer in the Second Amendment, law-abiding citizens shouldn’t have to seek the government’s permission to exercise their right to bear arms. Personal protection is something I do not take lightly. This common-sense legislation returns to the people their fundamental right, ensuring law-abiding citizens are not restricted or prosecuted for carrying a pistol for their personal protection. The bill package was approved by the full House and now moves to the Senate for consideration.

The House Health Policy Committee, on which I serve, approved a six-bill bipartisan package focused on combating opioid addiction in Michigan. The package includes legislation requiring medical professionals to consult with parents or guardians when an opioid-based medication may be prescribed to a person under the age of 18. I believe it is important we work to educate young people and parents about the risks associated with opioid medications. Other bills in the package increase access to opioid abuse treatment, allow pharmacists to use their discretion to refuse an opioid prescription without fear of legal ramifications and require school curriculum to address the risks of prescription drug abuse. Having moved out of committee, the bills were voted on and passed by the full House. They have now moved to the Senate for consideration.

Another important piece of legislation under discussion is House Bill 4466. This bill will prohibit a driver of any vehicle from holding or using a portable electronic device on any highway or street in this state. The prohibition will include while the vehicle is stopped at a light or intersection. This bill defines "use" as conducting a search; viewing, taking, or transmitting an image or video; playing games; performing a command or request to access an internet page; and composing, sending, reading, viewing, accessing, browsing, transmitting, saving, or retrieving an e-mail message, text message, instant message or other electronic data.

This legislation is vital because many drivers are paying more attention to their phones than to the road. Too often, as I drive throughout the district, and to and from Lansing, I see someone operating a vehicle while using their mobile device. Common sense should tell us to focus on driving to ensure our safety as well as those with whom we share the roadways.

If you have any ideas, comments or questions for my office, please do not hesitate to call us at 517-373-3816 or send an email to jeffnoble@house.mi.gov. We are happy to hear from you!