Michigan Senate Bill SB0938

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/25/24
• Refer: 6/25/24
• Report Pass: 12/11/24
• Refer: 12/11/24
• Report Pass: 12/12/24
• Engrossed: 12/13/24
• Refer: 12/13/24

Caption

Environmental protection: hazardous waste; injection well disposal fee; provide for. Amends sec. 62506a of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.62506a).

Impact

By implementing these fees, SB 0938 creates a new funding stream via the Disposal Well Host Community Fund, which is designated for cities, villages, and townships hosting Class I waste disposal wells. It mandates that a portion of the collected fees be distributed back to these communities to support local health, safety, and welfare initiatives. This approach links waste management activities directly with community investment, potentially enhancing local environmental protections and quality of life.

Summary

Senate Bill 0938 proposes amendments to the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act in Michigan, specifically targeting the regulation and fee structure for hazardous waste disposal, particularly through Class I commercial hazardous waste disposal wells. The bill establishes a fee system assessed per gallon of waste injected into such wells, amounting to 0.417 cents per gallon, thereby generating revenue aimed at promoting public health and safety in communities hosting these facilities. This bill is a significant effort to enhance environmental protection while ensuring financial contributions from those who benefit from these waste disposal services.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 0938 appears mixed, with proponents emphasizing the importance of keeping hazardous waste management in check to protect environmental resources and community health. Supporters view the fee mechanism as a fair approach to fund local services that confront the implications of hazardous waste disposal. Conversely, some stakeholders express concerns over whether the fee system might place an unnecessary financial burden on waste generators who are required to pass these costs along, leading to higher operational expenses.

Contention

Key points of contention include discussions around the adequacy of the fee structure to cover administrative costs and whether the exemptions provided for certain types of waste are sufficient to prevent abuse of the system. Moreover, the enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance and accurate reporting are also under scrutiny, with stakeholders debating the effectiveness of the department's oversight capabilities. This debate reflects broader uncertainties regarding the balance between regulation, financial feasibility for businesses, and protecting the interests of local communities.