August 7, 2006

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today asked the Legislature to support two bills sponsored by State Representative Brenda Clack (D-Flint) that increase penalties for drive-by shootings. 
 
“No family should have to live in fear in their own home,” Granholm said.  “This legislation will help local police crack down on those who terrorize our communities from a moving vehicle.”
 
Clack’s legislation would more than double the penalty for any person who intentionally fires a weapon from a vehicle, snowmobile or off-road vehicle.  Currently, such an offense is punishable by no more than four years in prison and a $2,000 fine, regardless of the consequences of the act.  Under the new legislation, the penalty would increase to ten years and a $10,000 fine.  If the crime results in serious bodily harm to another person, the penalty increases to 15 years and $15,000.

“This type of legislation is but one attempt to inform those in our community committing such heinous acts that we will use all in our power to get them off of the streets,” said Clack. 

Since taking office, Governor Granholm has taken numerous steps to help make Michigan communities safer, including:

• apprehending more than 2,000 fugitive felons through Project S.A.F.E. Neighborhood;

• enacting tough new laws to protect Michigan children, including legislation that keeps sex offenders away from schools and child care facilities;

• signing Jessica’s Law to increase penalties for sex crimes against children;
 
• calling for and signing legislation to protect children from the dangers of methamphetamines;

• calling for and signing legislation requiring criminal background checks for workers in nursing homes and assisted living facilities to help protect Michigan’s most vulnerable citizens.