Michigan Bills Allow People to be Billed for Being Rescued

New legislation in Lansing,Mich., would allow municipalities to bill people who’ve been rescued after taking unnecessary risks during a declared state of emergency.

Two lawmakers say their bills are a response to people recently taking risks like kayaking and using jet skis on flooding rivers in the Grand Rapids area.

One bill would let local governments seek reimbursement when those rescued have been “grossly negligent.” During recent flooding, rescue crews were called to rescue a kayaker who fell from his boat and clung to a tree.

Lawmakers have adjourned for the summer, so the legislation is unlikely to see action until the fall. The bills are being sponsored by Democratic Rep. Brandon Dillon of Grand Rapids and Republican Rep. Rob Verheulen of Walker.