Road to Restoration program continues helping residents
The Michigan Department of State (MDOS), Department of Attorney General, and community partners launched a new round of Road to Restoration clinics this week to help drivers with suspended licenses complete the necessary steps to safely restore their driving privileges. The first clinic was held last Thursday at CNS Healthcare in Detroit.
“The Road to Restoration program makes state government accessible to those who need our services the most, meeting people where they are in their communities,” said Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. “Michigan is a driving state. It’s a genuine hardship to not have a valid driver’s license to get to work, to take the kids to school, go grocery shopping, or to see the doctor. Because of the hard work and dedication of our employees, volunteers, and community partners, hundreds of Michiganders were given a clear path to get back on the road safely and legally, some of them for the first time in years. We know there is more opportunity for us to do this important work, which is why we are continuing the project through the fall in communities around the state.”
On Oct. 1, 2021, new state laws lifted license suspensions for drivers who failed to pay tickets or court fines or failed to appear in court for certain non-moving and other violations. In the months following, MDOS canceled infractions on the driving records of more than 350,000 Michiganders. However, many individuals must take additional measures before their licenses are restored. MDOS mailed letters to all residents affected by the law change, explaining their current status and outlining additional action they must take before they can resume driving.
The Road to Restoration clinics, staffed by MDOS, the Department of Attorney General, and volunteer attorneys, help residents determine how they can restore their licenses and when possible, provide the services they need to do so on site. The clinics are made possible by numerous partner organizations including DTE Energy, Miller Canfield, Dykema, Bodman, Detroit Justice Center, and United Way, as well as location partners who provide the space for the clinics.
Melvin Milton, a Detroit resident, attended the clinic and said he has been without a license since 1997, when he was indigent and was stopped for driving without insurance and with expired plates. After meeting with clinic staff, he learned he could regain a license once he passes tests.
“I am so grateful. I am so delighted to get my license so I can get out of here and get me a job. That was a hindrance not to have my license. It has been a long time. Today is a very exhilarating day. I’m over the moon and back.”
Future clinics are scheduled for Muskegon, Saginaw, Alpena, Traverse City, and southwest Detroit.
Michiganders who believe they may qualify to have their license reinstated or who have a question about their driving history should sign up for the next clinic near them at Michigan.gov/RoadtoRestoration.
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