Summary of HB 5856

• Eliminates mandatory jail sentences for certain violations of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, allowing judges discretion in sentencing rather than requiring imprisonment.

• Adds "specialty court program" definitions to hunting/fishing (MCL 324.40118), boating (MCL 324.80104), off-road vehicle (MCL 324.81101), and snowmobile (MCL 324.82101) violation sections, permitting judges to suspend imprisonment if defendants successfully complete drug treatment, DWI/sobriety, mental health, or veterans treatment courts.

• Modifies sentencing language from mandatory imprisonment ("shall be imprisoned") to discretionary terms ("may be imprisoned") for first-time violations of hunting/fishing regulations, boating while intoxicated, operating ORVs/snowmobiles under the influence, and related offenses.

• Requires that consecutive jail sentences (48 hours minimum) imposed for repeat violations shall not be suspended unless the defendant participates in and completes a specialty court program.

• Effective date: March 24, 2021.