LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – One Michigan lawmaker said he’s backing a plan to lower liability insurance cost for small businesses.

State Rep. Jerry Neyer (R-Shepherd) said House Bill 4582 would restore the “Open and Obvious” doctrine in Michigan. “Before the standard was abolished by the Michigan Supreme Court in 2023, it covered property owners from liability cases involving obvious hazards,” Neyer said. “Without the doctrine, businesses face overwhelming insurance rates due to increased legal actions and general uncertainty for property owners and businesses.”

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In addition, Rep. Neyer said the bill’s Commercial Premises Liability Act reinstates a previous standard that adds clarity to rules and regulations. “Businesses shouldn’t be sued because somebody lacks common sense. It shouldn’t take handholding by property owners to stop people from jumping into holes, climbing telephone poles, or walking straight into a bonfire. The law should treat everyone like the adults we are, not overgrown toddlers,” he said.

The House Judiciary Committee is considering the legislation.