Michigan House Bill HB5007

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/14/23
• Refer: 9/14/23
• Report Pass: 9/20/23
• Engrossed: 9/20/23
• Refer: 9/26/23
• Report Pass: 9/26/23
• Enrolled: 9/27/23
• Chaptered: 10/3/23
• Passed: 10/3/23

Caption

Environmental protection: other; general amendments to fees in the natural resources and environmental protection act; modify. Amends secs. 3122, 4112, 5522, 11525a, 17303, 17317, 80130, 80315, 81114 & 82156 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.3122 et seq.).

Impact

The new provisions in HB 5007 are expected to enhance the state's capacity to monitor and control environmental contaminants from wastewater discharges. By establishing a fee structure that varies based on the size and impact of the facility, the bill encourages compliance with environmental standards and aims to reduce pollution incidents. In particular, it allows municipalities to pass on some of these costs to users of their wastewater facilities, which could lead to increased operational costs for local governments and residents. The bill also encourages timely processing of permit applications with incentives for applicants if decisions are not made promptly.

Summary

House Bill 5007, signed into law on September 29, 2023, amends various sections of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act. The legislation primarily addresses the regulation of groundwater and wastewater discharges across the state of Michigan. The bill introduces new fees for different categories of facilities and municipalities based on their wastewater discharge levels and outlines specific conditions under which these fees apply. This regulatory framework is aimed at ensuring better management of environmental resources and protecting public health through stricter oversight of wastewater discharges into the groundwater system.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 5007 appears to be largely supportive from environmental advocacy groups and regulatory officials who argue that it strengthens the state's efforts towards sustainable water management. However, some controversy arises from municipalities concerned about the financial implications of these fees and the potential financial burden on residents. Critics of the bill expressed concerns that these costs would disproportionately impact smaller communities, which may struggle to absorb additional financial pressures stemming from the increased permit fees.

Contention

There are notable points of contention regarding the bill's implementation, particularly about how the fees will be structured and administrated, as well as the potential for municipalities to pass costs onto individuals. Stakeholders have voiced apprehension over the ability of smaller municipalities to sustain these added costs without compromising services. Furthermore, the expedited review process, while beneficial, raises questions about the thoroughness of environmental assessments for new projects, with some fearing that it could lead to less rigorous enforcement of environmental regulations.