LANSING, Michigan – Hundreds of drivers and homeowners from across the state gathered today at the Capitol to protest high insurance rates and to urge action on legislation that bans setting rates on where consumers live.

State Senator Martha G. Scott (D-Highland Park), who organized the rally, lead the crowd in chanting “MOVE THOSE BILLS.” Senator Scott, a long-time advocate for insurance reform, said that auto and home insurance rates should be set on driving records and the value of cars and homes, not on where consumers live, their education levels, their job titles or their credit scores.

“There are bills before the legislature right now to address these issues,” she said. “They deserve a hearing. They deserve a vote.”

Also speaking at the event were State Senators Hansen Clarke, Irma Clark-Coleman, Buzz Thomas and Tupac Hunter; insurance adjuster Craig Trombley; and Michigan Insurance Advocate Butch Hollowell, who presented Senator Scott with a proclamation from the Governor.

Pastor Eric Moore of the Christian Community Resource Network offered a blessing, and the Reverend Deedee M. Coleman of Russell Street Missionary Baptist Church in Detroit gave the closing prayer. The Reverend Ortheia Barnes-Kennerly sang the National Anthem and Amazing Grace.

The event took place as legislators continue work on the 2009-2010 budget, racing to beat a midnight deadline to avoid a state government shutdown. House members scheduled to participate were unable to do so due to voting taking place.

“Your elected leaders are in the building behind me right now trying to find a way to make the money we have meet our state’s needs. We all know what that feels like, don’t we?” Senator Scott said to the crowd. “Money spent on insurance – required by law in Michigan – is money struggling families cannot spend on their mortgage, their utilities, and food.”

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Senator Scott represents the 2nd Senate District, which includes areas of Detroit and the cities of Hamtramck, Harper Woods, Highland Park and all of the Grosse Pointes. She serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee.