Michigan House Bill HB5965

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/26/24
• Refer: 9/26/24

Caption

Environmental protection: other; grant program for farmers affected by polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS); create. Amends 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.101 - 324.90106) by adding sec. 402.

Impact

The grant program outlined in HB 5965 is expected to have a significant impact on state laws related to agricultural operations and environmental protection. By establishing a mechanism for farmers to receive financial aid, the bill seeks to support not only their recovery but also the state’s agricultural economy, helping farmers cover costs associated with health care, land transactions, and contamination remediation. The introduction of the PFAS impact fund further allows for sustainable financial management and allocation of resources to address PFAS-related challenges in agriculture.

Summary

House Bill 5965 aims to amend the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to introduce a grant program for farmers affected by PFAS contamination. The bill seeks to establish a framework within which the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, will provide targeted financial assistance to farmers whose land, agricultural products, or water has been contaminated by PFAS. The program is designed to help mitigate the financial impact of contamination, ensuring that affected farmers can maintain productive farming operations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 5965 may arise concerning the adequacy of funding for the grant program and specific eligibility requirements for farmers. Questions may also be raised regarding the extent of financial support provided, particularly as it pertains to indemnities for livestock depopulation or agricultural income loss. Critics may argue about the effectiveness of such programs in genuinely alleviating the negative impacts of PFAS contamination or whether the regulations are sufficient to prevent further contamination.