MI HB5694

Creates fifth degree arson misdemeanor for intentionally damaging or destroying personal property valued at $1,000 or less by fire or explosive when the person has one or more prior convictions, punishable by up to 1 year imprisonment or fine up to $2,000 or 3 times property value, whichever is greater.

Establishes misdemeanor offenses under section 78 for willfully and maliciously burning personal property valued at $200 or more, or property under $200 with prior convictions, punishable by up to 1 year imprisonment and fines; also covers negligent hotel or motel fires endangering others with lesser penalties of up to 93 days imprisonment.

Expands section 79 arson preparation offenses with graduated felony penalties: up to 5 years for property valued $1,000-$20,000, up to 10 years for property valued $20,000 or more or involving dwellings or insurance fraud, and up to 15 years for dwellings with insurance fraud intent or resulting in physical injury.

Allows aggregation of property values from separate incidents within a 12-month period under a scheme or course of conduct to determine total damage value for sentencing purposes.

Takes effect April 3, 2013, and is contingent upon enactment of House Bills 5692 and 5693.