Committee Hears Testimony on Bill Letting International Bridges Use Secretary of State Data to Bill Unpaid Tolls

The Michigan House Rules Committee heard testimony on House Bill 4809, a measure to allow enforcement of open‑road tolling at international bridges between Michigan and Canada. Representative Posthumus introduced the bill and witnesses said it applies only to international crossings, not in‑state bridges.

"My name is Randy Spader. I'm the vice president of operations for the Ambassador Bridge," said Randy Spader, who testified the bill would let bridge operators "collect toll using an open road tolling system," meaning commercial vehicles would not have to stop to pay and traffic flow would be maintained. Spader said the proposal would allow operators to use Secretary of State registration data "so we can properly identify those individuals, get those billings" when people fail to pay.

Supporters told the committee they had discussed the measure with the Secretary of State's office and other stakeholders while developing the language. Representative Martin asked whether the system would accept transponders or app payments; witnesses said many compliant users already use transponders or apps and that the bill targets those who do not register or otherwise fail to follow billing processes. On whether rulemaking or fees would be required from the Secretary of State, witnesses said they were not aware of any significant fees and expected costs to be nominal but offered to follow up with the committee.

The bill drew at least one written card from the Truck Renting and Leasing Association noting it did not wish to speak but was listed in support. No committee action on HB 4809 was taken at today's meeting; the hearing provided committee members with details about enforcement mechanics, stakeholder engagement, and outstanding questions about administrative fees and operational agreements with the Secretary of State.