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News from the Keweenaw Peninsula Posted March 4, 2002 Press release © 2002 Rep. Rich Brown, D-Bessemer

House approves Brown anti-terrorism legislation on hazardous materials transport

LANSING -- The Michigan House of Representatives has approved legislation that would require an applicant for a commercial driver's license with a hazardous materials endorsement to undergo a criminal background check as part of the licensing process. This legislation is part of a sweeping 40-bill package to address terrorism concerns in Michigan, according to Rep. Rich Brown (D-Bessemer), sponsor of the bill.

"In the wake of the September 11 terrorist attacks, we had to reassess our transportation industries for security concerns," Brown said. "Some reports indicated that suspected terrorists applied for special licenses to haul hazardous waste, which could have been used in an attack."

Rep. Brown's legislation would strengthen Michigan's procedures for granting commercial driver's licenses with hazardous materials endorsements. Under the legislation, applicants would need to submit a set of fingerprints for investigation. Also, court clerks would be required to forward any conviction under Michigan's new terrorism laws to the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State would be required to revoke, for life, all vehicle group designations on drivers' licenses of anyone convicted under the new terrorism laws or deemed a security risk under the new federal USA PATRIOT Act.

"Clearly, the events of September 11 meant we had to change our business-as-usual attitude about certain state services to provide better security to Michigan residents," Brown said. "My legislation will help state officials detect applicants who have histories of terrorist activities, shutting down their opportunities to use hazardous materials as a weapon."

The legislation now goes to the Michigan Senate for consideration.

District 110 constituents may contact State Representative Rich Brown with their concerns and issues by using his toll-free number: 1-888-663-4031.

Visit his Web site for more information about State Rep. Rich Brown (D-Bessemer) for Michigan's 110th District.

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