Introduced
by
To create a Michigan Border Development and Protection Authority in the Department of Transportation. “Ports of entry” - which would include international shipping ports, bridges and airports - would be required to obtain permits from the Authority, and these could be suspended for “safety” reasons it defines; the Authority it also would be authorized to regulate their tolls. The Authority would be allowed to borrow money (“bond”), and to undertake very broadly defined "economic-development projects in border communities" and "border development projects." It would also be authorized to control hazardous waste, direct vehicles with hazardous waste to “appropriate crossings," require environmental impact statements, conduct studies, lobby, and more. Finally, the Authority could levy a tax on each vehicle entering or leaving Michigan at an international crossing, which could apply to cars, trucks, trains and airplanes.
Referred to the Committee on New Economy and Quality of Life
