Michigan's 'Road to Restoration' Driver's License Clinic Assists Residents in Escanaba
The Michigan Department of State (MDOS) in conjunction with local partners held the second of three 'Road to Restoration' driver's license clinics in Escanaba on Wednesday, July 12, hosted by the Delta County Chamber of Commerce. The innovative program aims to aid residents in the reinstatement of suspended driver's licenses following amendments to state law in 2021.
Introduced following changes to legislation that lifted suspensions for drivers who had failed to pay tickets, court fines, or had missed court appearances for non-moving and other violations, the 'Road to Restoration' program has proven to be a beacon of hope for many. The alterations in law removed suspensions for more than 150,000 Michigan residents, albeit further action is required to restore their driving privileges fully.
“This program continues to lift barriers, eliminate confusion, and meet Michiganders where they are to provide much-needed service,” said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. “Our community partners, dedicated volunteers, and staff continue to step up for their neighbors, helping them get safely back behind the wheel and back to their lives.”
In Escanaba, the clinic allowed local residents to meet with staff and volunteers to navigate the path towards the reinstatement of their driver's licenses. Since its inception in 2022, the program has assisted more than 7,000 Michiganders across the state.
The clinics, a successful public-private collaboration, involves various entities including the Department of Attorney General, DTE Energy, Miller Canfield, Detroit Justice Center, the Michigan Association of United Ways, and Michigan 2-1-1.
Providing immediate access to driving records and numerous Secretary of State office services, including the written driving test, these clinics are designed to expedite the process of getting residents back behind the wheel. Attendees leave with a plan for reinstatement based on their personal circumstances, and in many cases, a restored driver's permit.
The next 'Road to Restoration' clinic is scheduled for Friday, July 14, at Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie. However, it should be noted that the clinics do not provide DUI/OWI expungement services and license reinstatement is not guaranteed.
Link to source: https://www.michigan.gov/sos/resources/news/2023/07/13/escanaba-drivers-license-clinic-sets-local-residents-on-road-to-restorationn