By Paul J. Sniadecki, MLSA Board Director
On June 26, 2024, the Michigan House took action on several bills of interest for riparians. The bills were first introduced in the Senate months ago, but were slowed down when they arrived in the House. The bills are:
SB 662, which revises financing provisions and the definition of lake level. It passed 68-42. SB662 was supported by:
- Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (support with changes)
- Michigan Association of County Drain Commissioners
- Huron River Watershed Council
- Michigan Boating Industries Association
- Michigan Environmental Council (MLSA is a member group and our Executive Director is on the board)
- Michigan League of Conservation Voters
- Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner
- Sierra Club
- Southeast Michigan Council of Governments
SB 398, which authorizes the Department of Great Lakes, Environment and Energy (EGLE) to issue emergency orders to repair or remove a structure or fill located on bottomlands. It passed 56-54. Support for the bill was provided by:
- Clean Water Action
- Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy
- Michigan Environmental Council
Both matters now move to the Governors office.