Genesee County, MI — Operation Drive, a program with a proven track record of helping individuals overcome barriers to obtaining a valid driver’s license, is coming to Genesee County. 

The 67th District Court has been awarded grant funding from the Michigan State Court Administrative Office to establish Operation Drive, an incredibly successful license restoration program, right here in Genesee County. 

For many residents, the path to securing a valid license is often filled with obstacles. Without support, individuals may continue to drive out of necessity, risking additional violations that can further delay their eligibility for reinstatement. Operation Drive aims to break this cycle by providing structure, information, and encouragement to help participants secure a valid license.

The program takes a collaborative, team-based approach. Judges, magistrates, city attorneys, county prosecutors, local law enforcement, and both appointed and retained defense counsel collaborate to assist participants in navigating the reinstatement process. This model has already made a significant impact in other Michigan communities.

“This achievement would not have been possible without the efforts of Andrea Johnson (Deputy District Court Administrator),” said Helen Davis, 67^th District Court Administrator. “She played a pivotal role in securing the grant,  gathering the information, and finally submitting the application. Andrea’s dedication and attention to detail made this opportunity a reality for Genesee County.”

Operation Drive began in 2014 under the leadership of Judge Derek Meinecke of the 44th District Court, which serves Royal Oak and Berkley in Oakland County. Judge Meinecke testified before the Michigan House Transportation Committee in October 2023, noting that the program has already helped restore 1,480 driver’s licenses, a powerful testament to its effectiveness and potential impact for Genesee County residents.

State-level support for Operation Drive expanded in July 2024 when Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Public Act 121 of 2024, appropriating grant funding for district courts across Michigan to establish their own Operation Drive initiatives. Genesee County is proud to be among the recipients of this important investment.

Implementation of Operation Drive in Genesee County will begin in the coming months. Updates will be shared publicly as the program officially launches.