Calley signs 53 bills in Snyder's stead

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Lt. Gov. Brian Calley has signed 53 bills into law while Gov. Rick Snyder is out of the state on a holiday vacation.

New laws announced Wednesday include stiffer criminal penalties for arson. Michigan had about 10,500 suspicious fires last year, and Calley says arsonists too often receive light sentences.

He also signed a bill making it illegal to drive while impaired by any intoxicating substance. The measure targets motorists who sniff glue, inhale aerosol or use other substances not specifically prohibited on roadways.

Another measure Calley signed prevents people injured in car accidents from having medical marijuana expenses covered under their auto insurance policy.

Snyder's office has acted on 240 bills passed by the Legislature in the final weeks of the 2012 session.

Forty-two bills remain pending.