Driver?s license clinic helps Saginaw-area residents get back behind the wheel
Today, the Michigan Department of State (MDOS) and Michigan Department of Attorney General joined United Way of Saginaw County to host a free driver?s license restoration clinic in Saginaw, continuing the Road to Restoration program that is helping Michiganders restore their driving privileges.
?Meeting people where they are and bringing needed services right to them is fundamental to a government that works for the people,? said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. ?Our commitment to this effort grows as we travel the state and see firsthand the positive impact these services have, not only on individuals, but on the community as a whole.?
Recent changes in state law lifted suspensions for drivers who failed to pay tickets or court fines, or failed to appear in court for certain non-moving and other violations. While the new laws lifted suspensions for more than 150,000 Michiganders, many must still take additional steps to restore their license. The Road to Restoration clinics assist drivers in navigating the new laws and help them identify what they should do to get back behind the wheel. The clinics focus on non-moving violations and do not provide DUI expungement services.
Today?s clinic at SVRC Marketplace was hosted by the United Way of Saginaw.
?Creating opportunities to increase financial stability and lift those in our community struggling to make ends meet is our strategic focus,? said Audra Davis, President and CEO for the United Way of Saginaw County. ?We are very proud to collaborate on this work as we recognize the lack of reliable transportation is a major hurdle to obtaining and maintaining stable employment. We are grateful to be part of the solution to better serve and support our community.?
The clinics are staffed by MDOS, the Department of Attorney General, and volunteer attorneys, who help visitors to the clinic determine a course of action to restore their license. Individuals were able to bring a recent copy of their driving record, or purchase one at the clinic, for staff to review and provide recommendations. When possible, staff provided the services they needed on site. Representatives from the 70th District Court were also on hand at the event to answer questions and take payment for outstanding fines or fees. Eligible residents who needed to take a written test to regain their license were able to do so at the clinic.
The clinics are made possible by numerous partner organizations including DTE Energy, Miller Canfield Law Firm, Detroit Justice Center and United Way, as well as location partners who provide the space for the clinics. The Road to Restoration program will continue this fall with upcoming stops in Lansing (Oct. 12), Benton Harbor (Oct. 14) and Detroit (Nov. 16).
Michiganders can find information about the clinics at Michigan.gov/RoadtoRestoration. All participants are strongly encouraged to pre-register on the website to attend, however walk-ins will also be accepted at all upcoming clinics.
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