Michigan drivers can now show proof of auto insurance on phones

Snyder, who signed it Wednesday, says the goal is to modernize government and make everyday life easier for residents. The House is expected to concur this week.

The new law directs law enforcement officers to accept the electronic proof of auto insurance in place of paper proof of insurance.

First, they require a higher legal standard of “clear and convincing” evidence that property represents the proceeds of criminal acts before an agency can take ownership.

Bills 4499 and 4505 would raise the standard of evidence needed to forfeit property.

The package of bills also mandate detailed reporting of property seized and forfeited as part of investigations and transparency requirements for agencies executing seizures.

The bills will increase transparency and help protect the rights and assets of those wrongfully charged or caught in the crossfire of criminal activity, yet innocent.

Michigan law enforcement agencies under state law seized or shared in seizure proceeds totaling more than $24 million in 2013, the latest year for which data are available from Michigan State Police. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Rick Jones, R-Grand Ledge, (a former county sheriff himself) gave an example: “Every so often instead of seizing the assets of a bad guy, they seize the assets of a grandma by mistake”.

The legislation was approved with bipartisan support in both the House and Senate.