Overview: HB 4460, titled "Environmental protection: funding; clean Michigan 2 initiative funds; provide for distribution and allocation", was introduced on March 11, 2025. The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act of 1994 by adding Part 198 to provide for the distribution and allocation of the Clean Michigan 2 Initiative Funds.
Purpose and Intent: The main goal of this bill is to establish a new funding mechanism to support environmental cleanup and protection efforts in the state of Michigan. The Clean Michigan 2 Initiative aims to build upon the success of the original Clean Michigan Initiative by providing additional resources for remediation of contaminated sites, water quality improvements, and other environmental priorities.
Key Provisions:
- Creates the Clean Michigan 2 Initiative Fund to be administered by the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)
- Allocates funding from various sources, including state appropriations, bond proceeds, and revenue from environmental fees and fines
- Outlines specific funding allocations for various environmental programs and projects, such as:
- Brownfield redevelopment
- Drinking water infrastructure
- Wetland restoration
- Coastal zone management
- Pollution prevention and waste reduction
Affected Parties and Impacts: The Clean Michigan 2 Initiative will benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including:
- Residents of Michigan who will enjoy cleaner air, water, and land
- Local governments and communities that can access funding for environmental remediation and infrastructure projects
- Businesses and developers involved in brownfield redevelopment and other sustainable projects
- Environmental organizations and advocacy groups that support the state's conservation and protection efforts
Procedural and Timeline Considerations: HB 4460 was electronically reproduced on May 6, 2025 and is currently in the legislative process. The bill is tied to HB 4459, which provides additional details on the implementation and administration of the Clean Michigan 2 Initiative. If passed, the new funding program would be established and begin distributing resources to eligible projects and initiatives.