VanSingel introduces legislation to allow drag racing at the dunes.

– Silver Lake State Park photo

VanSingel introduces legislation to allow drag racing at the dunes.

GOLDEN TOWNSHIP — After hearing from many opponents to the recent drag racing ban at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes, State Rep. Scott VanSingel said he has introduced legislation to allow drag racing on the dunes.

“The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently made a decision to prohibit drag racing on the Silver Lake Sand Dunes,” states VanSingel in his June newsletter released Wednesday, June 9. “I have heard from so many of you, along with folks from across the state, regarding this issue, and how it negatively affects your experience at Silver Lake.

Rep. Scott VanSingel

“Despite attempts to negotiate a solution with the department, drag racing is still currently prohibited. Therefore, I am introducing House Bill 4980 to exempt Silver Lake from the drag racing ban.”

Drag racing is not permitted on the dunes, because it is against the law, said Silver State Park Manager Jody Johnston just prior to the April 1 season opener of the dunes. “There has been an increase in popularity of drag racing, and we can’t look the other way any longer,” said Johnston. “It has been deemed illegal by a state law, MCL 257.626a.” 

The rule took effect at the state park at the beginning of the 2021 season.

Read the full language of the statute here.

VanSingel represents the 100th District which includes Oceana, Newaygo and Lake counties.

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