LANSING –State Representative Bettie Cook Scott (D-Detroit) today voted to restore $4 million in funding for the Automobile Theft Prevention Authority (ATPA), a program that has been proven to lower incidents of auto theft across the state, translating to reduced insurance rates for Michigan drivers.
"Detroit residents deal with some of the most absurd and unfair insurances rates in the state," Scott said. "One of my top goals in the Michigan Legislature is making sure that everyone pays fair and just insurance rates. By restoring these funds, we will reduce crime, create better neighborhoods and keep insurance rates low."
Each year the ATPA awards grants to law enforcement agencies, prosecutors' offices, and nonprofit community organizations. These grant programs help prevent auto theft, catch auto thieves, and put the thieves in jail. The ATPA is funded by an annual $1 assessment on each insured noncommercial passenger vehicle. Funding for the ATPA was cut by executive order last year.
According to the Web site of the Michigan State Police, auto thefts in Michigan have declined by 25 percent since the ATPA's inception in 1986. Nationally, thefts dropped only 5 percent during that same period. As a direct result, the average rate of major Michigan auto insurers' premiums, relative to other states, has been reduced.
"As the cost of living continues to skyrocket, high insurance rates are breaking the backs of our working families who are struggling just to get by," Scott said. "By saving money on insurance, residents will have more money to spend on themselves, which will help get our economy back on track. This move will fight crime and keep insurance rates low – it's a win-win for Michigan."