The State Court Administrative Office (SCAO) is encouraging Michigan district and municipal courts to apply for grants to establish Operation Drive programs modeled after the successful initiative launched in 2016 by the 44th District Court in Royal Oak. State-appropriated, one-time funding of $500,000 is available to help these courts provide criminal defendants — particularly those with traffic-related misdemeanors and suspended or nonexistent licenses — with structured guidance to resolve outstanding legal and financial obligations and regain driving privileges.
“Expanding programs such as Operation Drive across the state is a win for everyone because it helps individuals overcome barriers to obtaining valid driver’s licenses, which can help them improve the quality of life for their families,” said Chief Justice Megan K. Cavanagh, “while also promoting safer, more responsible driving behavior in Michigan communities. In the auto state, workers need cars to get to work, and Operation Drive makes that happen.”
Program highlights:
• Focuses on individuals with pending misdemeanor traffic offenses and suspended or never-issued licenses.
• Offers support for resolving tickets, warrants, court appearances, and fines.
• Encourages courts to collaborate with local agencies for case management and legal services.
• Includes funding for personnel, supplies, transportation incentives, and virtual tools.
Courts must adhere to the Operation Drive Program Guide and submit a detailed budget and narrative as part of their application.
Completed grant proposals must be submitted by Oct. 31.
More information as well as applications are available on the One Court of Justice web page — www.courts.michigan.gov.
“Expanding programs such as Operation Drive across the state is a win for everyone because it helps individuals overcome barriers to obtaining valid driver’s licenses, which can help them improve the quality of life for their families,” said Chief Justice Megan K. Cavanagh, “while also promoting safer, more responsible driving behavior in Michigan communities. In the auto state, workers need cars to get to work, and Operation Drive makes that happen.”
Program highlights:
• Focuses on individuals with pending misdemeanor traffic offenses and suspended or never-issued licenses.
• Offers support for resolving tickets, warrants, court appearances, and fines.
• Encourages courts to collaborate with local agencies for case management and legal services.
• Includes funding for personnel, supplies, transportation incentives, and virtual tools.
Courts must adhere to the Operation Drive Program Guide and submit a detailed budget and narrative as part of their application.
Completed grant proposals must be submitted by Oct. 31.
More information as well as applications are available on the One Court of Justice web page — www.courts.michigan.gov.
