NEW:
The Michigan State Senate has approved a bill to dramatically change how auto insurance is bought and sold in Michigan.
Two Democrats joined the Republican majority to adopt the bill.
It would roll back requirements for drivers to buy unlimited medical coverage.
Republicans say giving consumers more choice in levels of coverage would bring down rates.
Democrats say that would subject drivers and passengers to the risk of onerous medical bills if they are seriously injured. The bill now goes to the state House.
UPDATE:
Lawmakers are taking aim at high car insurance premiums by giving initial approval to a plan that would no longer make Michigan the only state to require drivers to buy unlimited medical benefits through their auto insurer.
The bills won passage from a Republican-controlled Senate panel on Tuesday. The full Senate plans to OK it later in the day.
The measures would let drivers purchase no personal injury protection coverage if they have other qualifying health insurance, or choose up to $250,000 in benefits unless insurers offer higher amounts. The legislation also would curb medical providers' ability to bill car insurers much more for care than health insurers pay.
Democrats criticize the legislation for not mandating rate reductions, while Republicans say insurers with lower costs would have to cut rates to appease regulators and stay competitive.
ORIGINAL POST:
LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Lawmakers are taking aim at high car insurance premiums by unveiling a plan that would no longer make Michigan the only state to require drivers to buy unlimited medical benefits through their auto insurer.
The bills are expected to win approval from the Republican-controlled Senate on Tuesday.
The measures would let drivers purchase no personal injury protection coverage if they have other qualifying health insurance.