Senate GOP: Priority is cutting Michigan car insurance rates

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Senate Republicans on Tuesday signaled their intent to make lowering high auto insurance premiums a top priority in the two-year session, proposing legislation that would make it optional for Michigan drivers to buy what is now mandatory unlimited medical coverage.

The bill is the first to be introduced by GOP senators who control the chamber, an indication that it is important for the majority. The measure lacks many specifics, which Republicans said is meant to show they are open to examining every area of the no-fault law that is driving up rates.

"I think as we heard last year loud and clear from citizens throughout Michigan, we need to lower the cost of auto insurance.