A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” (MCL 324.101 to 324.90106) by adding section 5534.
This bill would amend the 1994 PA 451, known as the "Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act," by adding section 5534. This new section introduces the "Air Quality Facility Supplemental Environmental Project," allowing alleged air quality regulation violators to undertake environmentally beneficial projects at the violation site as part of a settlement. It also establishes the Air Quality Enforcement and Mitigation Fund (AQEM fund) within the state treasury, funded by civil and administrative fines from air quality violations. This fund is dedicated to air quality improvement efforts, allocating 30% to support environmental justice communities through increased air monitoring, compliance assistance, and inspections, and 70% for air quality community impact grants. These grants aim to mitigate air pollution and enhance enforcement program effectiveness in affected communities, supporting non-profit entities, educational institutions, and local governments. The Department of Michigan is responsible for administering the AQEM fund and will develop grant program guidelines in consultation with an advisory committee comprising public health experts, environmental justice organizations, and community representatives. Additionally, the department will engage with environmental justice and interest groups to identify environmental justice communities and will publish an annual report on grant allocations and the communities benefited. This act will take effect 90 days after its enactment.
Co-sponsored by Sens.
Referred to the Committee on Energy and Environment
Reported with substitute S-3
Referred to the Committee of the Whole
Reported with substitute S-5
Substitute S-5 concurred in by voice vote
Passed in the Senate 20 to 18 (details)
Referred to the Committee on Natural Resources, Environment, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation
Reported with substitute H-1
