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Born and raised in Michigan, Tom Tibortz is a first-generation U.S. citizen in his family. He and his wife Maricar, as well as their dog Rocky, enjoy driving their 1993 HMMWV M998. The designation stands for High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle, more commonly known as a “Humvee.” He was also a key advocate of legislation introduced in last year’s session that would have allowed for the registration of a “military surplus vehicle” as an “historic vehicle.” Ultimately, the proposal was vetoed by outgoing Governor Rick Snyder—here are the details. Good news: this effort is hardly over, as he and his fellow constituents are persistent!
Here is some additional background in his own words:
I joined the Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA) and the Military Vehicle Collectors Club of Michigan (MVCCMI) in 2017. I purchased a 1993 HMMWV M998 with a Wisconsin on-road title. When transferring to Michigan, the state would only allow for an ORV (off-road vehicle) title. That’s when I began assisting in passage of a Senate bill here in Michigan to allow for registration of surplus military vehicles for on-road use. To me, this is helping to keep history in motion and protect the average hobbyist.
We have worked closely to ensure the bill is in line with what hobbyists want. In 2018, we were able to get S.B. 1040 all the way to the Governor’s desk after a lot of last-minute work and communication. However, he vetoed the bill. Now we are continuing the fight into 2019. With the new administration and the support of many, including Senator Erika Geiss, we believe success will be ours this session. Our hopes are that with the Motor City state capital on board, tensions will be eased for this type of vehicle in other states.
We need to come together in numbers to fight the good fight. Continuous communication is the key to help get the word out. The SEMA Action Network (SAN) brings people together to fight for noble causes. Please continue to support SAN and its members by voicing your support for upcoming bills when notifications are received—regardless of the state you reside in.
Here is some additional background in his own words:
I joined the Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA) and the Military Vehicle Collectors Club of Michigan (MVCCMI) in 2017. I purchased a 1993 HMMWV M998 with a Wisconsin on-road title. When transferring to Michigan, the state would only allow for an ORV (off-road vehicle) title. That’s when I began assisting in passage of a Senate bill here in Michigan to allow for registration of surplus military vehicles for on-road use. To me, this is helping to keep history in motion and protect the average hobbyist.
We have worked closely to ensure the bill is in line with what hobbyists want. In 2018, we were able to get S.B. 1040 all the way to the Governor’s desk after a lot of last-minute work and communication. However, he vetoed the bill. Now we are continuing the fight into 2019. With the new administration and the support of many, including Senator Erika Geiss, we believe success will be ours this session. Our hopes are that with the Motor City state capital on board, tensions will be eased for this type of vehicle in other states.
We need to come together in numbers to fight the good fight. Continuous communication is the key to help get the word out. The SEMA Action Network (SAN) brings people together to fight for noble causes. Please continue to support SAN and its members by voicing your support for upcoming bills when notifications are received—regardless of the state you reside in.