Michigan Farm Bureau is urging members to contact state representatives and senators in opposition to a proposal to remove legislative oversight from the state’s water quality rulemaking process.
If passed, Senate Bill 663 and House Bill 5205 would transfer legislative authority over water quality rulemaking to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), a move contested by MFB and backed by the organization’s member-developed policy.
The bills are sponsored by Sen. Sue Shink (D-Northfield) and Rep. Emily Dievendorf (D- Lansing), respectively.
Contact your representative and senator by texting MIWATER to 52886 or visit https://bit.ly/NOtoSB663.
MFB Legislative Counsel Ben Tirrell has represented the organization on the issue, testifying before both the House Natural Resources, Environment, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Committee and the Senate Energy and Environment Committee earlier this year (read his remarks).
Read next: Loss of environmental oversight boards looming
“We’re urging members to tell their senators to vote no on Senate Bill 663,” Tirrell said. “The bill was passed out of committee on March 7, and we believe it will come before the full Senate soon.”
HB 5205 has yet to be passed out of committee.
Tirrell emphasized the importance of retaining legislative authority in water quality rulemaking processes. He underscored concerns over the potential repercussions of relinquishing such authority, citing the need for transparency and stakeholder input in policy decisions.
"While EGLE plays a necessary role in environmental enforcement and permit issuance, there have been persistent shortcomings in applying sound science and conducting economic impact analysis prior to enacting rules and standards," Tirrell said. "These shortcomings disproportionately affect small businesses like farms and food processors, as well as the rural communities they support."
Interestingly, almost 20 years ago the Legislature withdrew the department's jurisdiction on water quality rulemaking as per Part 31 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act. This legislation, endorsed and sanctioned by then-Governor Jennifer Granholm, was a product of bipartisan agreement.
MFB's campaign highlights the significance of legislative oversight in ensuring accountability and robust public engagement in shaping water quality regulations.
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