Capitol News

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson visited Flint on Wednesday to observe a Road to Restoration clinic, where Michigan Department of State staff and volunteer attorneys assisted residents seeking to restore their driving privileges. The event, held at the Flint Farmers' Market, drew 100 attendees who received guidance on regaining their licenses.

"It is so important to have a program like this for Michigan residents because government can show up for people when they need it and then get out of the way,” said Secretary Benson. “That is what I believe government should be doing for the people who are served at these clinics – to be able to take their kids to school, to go to a doctor's appointment and get necessary healthcare, or to get a job. I am glad our department is able to host these clinics all across Michigan to help people get back on their feet and back on their way.”

Abigayl Venman, director of the Road to Restoration program, highlighted the significance of these events: “We have been hosting successful clinics in Flint since 2020. Driving is a crucial part of daily life, and not having a valid driver’s license can significantly hinder Michigan residents from essential activities like medical appointments, grocery shopping, and school pickups. We extend our thanks to our partners and host locations for their unwavering support, allowing us to continue this life-changing work throughout the state.”

During the clinic, participants met individually with legal volunteers and state staff who reviewed license statuses, answered questions about next steps, administered vision tests and written exams onsite. Information sessions were also held regarding administrative hearings.

Detroit resident Da’ryll Carrington shared his experience after passing his written knowledge test at the clinic: "It has been horrible without my license. It has held me back from a lot of business opportunities as well,” said Carrington. "I realized that I actually need my license and that it’s held me back from things I want to do in my life and the next steps I want to take so I came here and attacked it today. It was real smooth. People here were really nice and welcoming. I was able to take my written test to get my license back so now all I have to do is clear up some tickets and take the driving test and I am good.”

The Road to Restoration initiative collaborates with organizations such as the Michigan Department of Attorney General, Michigan WORKS!, Michigan Association of United Ways, Detroit Justice Center, DTE Energy, Miller Canfield, and Michigan 2-1-1.

Since its launch four years ago following changes in state law in 2021 that made over 150,000 individuals eligible for license restoration assistance programs like this one have provided direct support at more than 65 clinics statewide helping over 11,000 Michiganders regain access (https://www.michigan.gov/sos/resources/news/2024/04/02/new-law-restores-license-eligibility-for-thousands-of-michiganders). Additional eligibility expanded in April 2024 when Public Act 42 repealed a three-year ban affecting those cited for driving without a license.

Road to Restoration clinics are free but may require payment of outstanding fines; DUI expungement services are not offered nor is reinstatement guaranteed.

The final clinic for this year will be held in Dearborn Heights on October 15th. Registration information can be found at https://www.michigan.gov/R2R or by dialing 2-1-1.