Legislation was introduced Thursday in the Michigan Senate to create a “Pink Ribbon” license plate to raise funds for screening and treatment of breast and cervical cancers, said Sen. John Proos, who co-sponsored the measure.

“Breast and cervical cancers have devastated millions of Americans, touching many Michigan families,” said Proos, R-St. Joseph. “The funds raised by this license plate will help improve access for women to life-saving cancer screening and treatment. The fact that this measure received unanimous support upon introduction in the Senate is a testament to the unified effort to win the battle against these deadly cancers.”

Senate Bill 389 would create a “Pink Ribbon” fundraising license plate benefiting the Michigan Breast and Cervical Cancer Program. The program provides low-income women throughout Michigan access to cancer screening services and follow-up care, including treatment if necessary.

“All revenues will go to help increase the number of screenings provided each year,” Proos said. “The $15,000 startup cost for the plate will be covered by privately-raised funds, so that this will come at no cost to taxpayers.”

According to the American Cancer Society, a woman’s chance of survival with early detection of a localized cancer is 98 percent.  Unfortunately, current screening only catches slightly more than 60 percent of cases at that early stage.

Survival rates decrease among low-income individuals, who are unable to afford regular medical examinations.

SB 389 has been referred to the Senate Transportation Committee for consideration.