Environmental protection: permits; denial of or imposition of additional conditions on; provide for when projects are located in environmentally overburdened communities, and repeal environmental permit review commission provisions. Amends secs. 1301, 1305, 1307 & 1311 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.1301 et seq.); adds secs. 1331, 1333, 1335, 1337, 1339 & 1341 & repeals secs. 1313 - 1317 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.1313 - 324.1317).
If enacted, HB5901 will significantly change the way permit applications are processed in Michigan. The law succinctly places greater responsibility on both the state and the applicants to assess and address the cumulative impacts of pollution and other stressors in areas that may already be vulnerable. The introduction of mandated public hearings aims to enhance transparency and allow community members to express their concerns and insights, which could lead to more equitable decision-making.
House Bill 5901 seeks to amend the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to introduce new requirements for permit applications when proposed facilities are located in overburdened communities. The bill defines 'overburdened communities' as areas disproportionately affected by environmental stressors and public health risks. This legislation mandates that permit applicants conduct environmental justice impact assessments and hold public hearings within these communities, ensuring local voices are heard during the permitting process.
Notably, there appears to be contention around the bill regarding the potential administrative burden it may place on the Department of Environmental Quality. Critics may argue that the enhanced requirements for public input and assessment could slow down the permitting process, impacting development timelines. However, proponents contend that this is a necessary step toward greater accountability in environmental governance and social justice.