WeVote

Bill

Bill

HB 4831

Drains: districts; revision of drainage district boundaries; modify procedure. Amends secs. 135 & 197 of 1956 PA 40 (MCL 280.135 & 280.197).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Greg Alexander and 2 co-sponsors

HB 4831: Drains - Revision of Drainage District Boundaries OverviewBill Number: HB 4831 Title: Drains: districts; revision of drainage district boundaries; modify procedure. Amend

bill electronically reproduced 08/27/2025
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 4831

HB 4831: Drains - Revision of Drainage District Boundaries

Overview

Bill Number: HB 4831
Title: Drains: districts; revision of drainage district boundaries; modify procedure. Amends secs. 135 & 197 of 1956 PA 40 (MCL 280.135 & 280.197).
Status: Bill electronically reproduced 08/27/2025
Introduced: March 13, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of HB 4831 is to modify the procedures for revising the boundaries of drainage districts in Michigan. The bill aims to provide more flexibility and responsiveness in adapting drainage district boundaries to changing land use and development patterns over time.

Key Provisions

  • Allows drainage district boundaries to be revised more easily, without requiring a full re-establishment of the district
  • Streamlines the petition and hearing process for boundary revisions, reducing administrative burdens
  • Grants drainage district boards more authority to initiate boundary changes on their own, rather than requiring a petition from landowners
  • Expands the criteria that can be considered when revising boundaries, such as changes in land use, population, and infrastructure
  • Requires drainage district boards to provide more public notice and opportunities for input during the boundary revision process

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Landowners and residents within existing drainage districts, who may see their district boundaries change
  • Local governments and municipalities that contain or interact with drainage districts
  • Drainage district boards and administrators, who will have new powers and responsibilities for managing boundary revisions

The bill is intended to make the drainage district system more responsive to evolving community needs, while still maintaining appropriate public input and oversight. Boundary changes could impact tax assessments, maintenance responsibilities, and flood control/drainage services for affected properties.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

HB 4831 was introduced in the Michigan House of Representatives on March 13, 2025 and is currently in the committee review process. If passed by the House and Senate, the bill would amend sections 135 and 197 of Michigan's Drain Code to implement the new boundary revision procedures. The changes would take effect 90 days after the bill is signed into law by the governor.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.