Michigan House Bill HB5332

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/14/23
• Refer: 11/14/23

Caption

Environmental protection: landfills; TENORM and hazardous waste disposal fees; increase and require percentage to be distributed to host community. Amends secs. 11108, 11109 & 11130 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.11108 et seq.).

Impact

The bill's amendments will directly impact landfill owners and operators, as they will be subject to the new fee structure starting in 2024. Furthermore, a percentage of the fees collected would be funneled back into the local communities where these landfills are situated. This allocates 25% of the fees to the local general fund, with an emphasis on promoting public health and safety within these communities. The bill also seeks to strengthen the financial framework supporting the environmental pollution prevention fund, through which local entities can apply for grants and funding.

Summary

House Bill 5332 aims to amend Michigan's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, specifically addressing the fees associated with the disposal of hazardous waste and technologically enhanced naturally occurring radioactive material (TENORM) in landfills. The bill proposes an increase in fees for hazardous waste disposal, from $10.00 per ton to $25.00 per ton starting January 1, 2024. The new fee structure is intended to reflect the increasing costs related to hazardous waste management while also encouraging better waste practices among generators by financially incentivizing reductions in hazardous waste generated.

Conclusion

Overall, HB5332 is designed to enhance the regulatory landscape around hazardous waste disposal in Michigan while aiming to foster greater accountability and support at the local governmental level. As it transitions through the legislative process, the debate around balancing economic impacts on waste generators and ensuring community protection and funding will likely continue to develop.

Contention

While proponents argue that higher disposal fees will lead to a more environmentally aware waste management system, critics have raised concerns regarding the financial burden placed on smaller businesses that produce hazardous waste. The increase in fees could disproportionately affect smaller operations, potentially leading to economic challenges. Additionally, questions have been raised regarding the efficiency of how these funds will be used to ensure actual health and environmental benefits materialize in the host communities.