Michigan House Bill HB4265

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/18/25
• Refer: 3/18/25
• Report Pass: 6/5/25
• Engrossed: 6/12/25
• Refer: 6/17/25

Caption

Environmental protection: solid waste; reporting and compliance requirements for anaerobic digesters; modify. Amends secs. 11506 & 11568 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.11506 & 324.11568). TIE BAR WITH: HR 0002'25, HB 4257'25

Impact

The proposed amendments would require owners and operators of anaerobic digesters to secure permits and comply with extensive guidelines to monitor and track the types of feedstock and digestate generated. One significant change is that digestate must now undergo testing and adhere to safety standards, potentially increasing operational costs and regulatory burdens on facilities that manage organic materials. This could lead to improved sustainability in waste management practices across the state of Michigan, supporting the state's environmental goals.

Summary

House Bill 4265 seeks to amend the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by modifying sections related to solid waste and anaerobic digesters. It introduces new compliance requirements and reporting mandates for the operation of anaerobic digesters, aiming to enhance environmental protection while managing organic waste through bioenergy production. This bill emphasizes the importance of proper management of digestate, ensuring it meets safety thresholds and is not deemed a disposal area, thus aiming to mitigate possible environmental hazards associated with solid waste management.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 4265 has been mixed. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step toward better environmental stewardship and reinforces the importance of sustainable waste management practices. However, critics voice concerns about the potential for increased regulatory burdens on small operators and farmers, fearing it could hinder small-scale composting or biogas operations. This highlights a tension between promoting sustainable practices and ensuring economic feasibility for all stakeholders involved.

Contention

Notably, the bill faces contention regarding the balance it seeks between regulation and operational flexibility. Stakeholders, particularly within the agricultural community, are worried about the implications of the new permit requirements and the costs associated with compliance. The specifics around the types of materials acceptable for use in anaerobic digesters and the operational thresholds may provoke debate over whether the bill adequately addresses the diverse needs and capacities of varying facilities in Michigan.