MI SB0253

Changes department oversight from "Department of Consumer and Industry Services" to "Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs" and clarifies the director may designate a representative.

Separates definitions of "operator" and "owner," with "owner" now including individuals, partnerships, corporations, and government entities that own, lease, or control a carnival or amusement ride.

Adds new requirements for ride owners including providing manufacturer's operating instructions and safety bulletins to the department, maintaining employee training records, and reporting accidents resulting in fatalities or serious injuries to the department within 12 hours.

Replaces temporary cessation of operations authority with a comprehensive permit denial, suspension, and revocation system; permits may be suspended for up to 30 days with potential reinstatement after inspection, and revoked if noncompliance continues, with a 1-year reapplication ban following revocation.

Adds administrative fines up to $2,500 per violation per day for operating rides with defects affecting safety, presenting risk of serious injury, exceeding maximum speed, or violating the act; includes authority for injunctive relief without bond and allows warning letters before penalties are imposed.