Michigan Senate Bill SB0226

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/22/23
• Refer: 3/22/23
• Report Pass: 2/20/24
• Refer: 2/20/24
• Report Pass: 2/22/24
• Engrossed: 2/27/24
• Refer: 2/27/24
• Report Pass: 3/12/24
• Enrolled: 6/4/24
• Chaptered: 6/20/24
• Passed: 6/20/24

Caption

Environmental protection: air pollution; asbestos emissions program for demolition or renovation activity; require annual report on sufficiency of number of inspectors. Amends 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.101 - 324.90106) by adding sec. 5519b. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4188'23

Impact

If passed, SB 226 would substantially affect how the state manages its environmental safety regarding asbestos emissions, ensuring that inspection programs are adequately funded and staffed. By requiring an annual report, the bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the state's inspection protocols, potentially leading to improvements in public health and environmental protection. The established metrics for evaluating the sufficiency of inspectors aim to ensure effective oversight and enforcement of asbestos safety regulations.

Summary

Senate Bill 226, introduced by Senators Geiss and Chang, aims to enhance the oversight of asbestos emissions during renovation and demolition activities. It proposes an amendment to the environmental protection laws of Michigan, mandating the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy to annually report on the sufficiency of its asbestos inspection program. The report must include details such as the number of inspectors employed, number of inspections conducted, and the number of enforcement actions taken. Moreover, it evaluates whether the department has an adequate number of inspectors in accordance with the National Emission Standard for Asbestos.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 226 appears to be largely positive among environmental advocates who support stronger regulations for asbestos control and management. The initiative to require annual reporting is seen as a necessary step towards accountability. However, there may be concerns from some sectors, including construction and renovation industries, regarding potential compliance costs and operational impacts due to increased scrutiny and regulatory requirements.

Contention

Notable points of contention related to SB 226 involve the balance between regulatory oversight and the operational freedom of businesses involved in renovation and demolition. Some stakeholders may argue that increased reporting and compliance requirements could hamper economic activities or lead to excessive governmental intervention in business operations. Additionally, the effective implementation of these requirements will depend on the legislature's commitment to funding and resourcing the Department to ensure the proposed amendments translate into more robust environmental protections.