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HB 4299

Environmental protection: pollution prevention; plastic bags and other containers; repeal act preempting local regulation of. Repeals 2016 PA 389 (MCL 445.591 - 445.593).

2025-2026 Regular Session

Repeals Michigan's 2016 state preemption law, allowing cities and counties to independently regulate plastic bags and containers instead of state-only authority.

bill electronically reproduced 03/25/2025
#cities:ordinances #counties:ordinances #environmentalprotection:pollutionprevention #environmentalprotection:recyclingandwasteutilization #townships:ordinances #villages:ordinances
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Bill Summary · HB 4299

Legislative bill overview

HB 4299 would repeal Michigan's 2016 preemption law (PA 389) that currently prohibits local governments from regulating plastic bags and other containers. By repealing this preemption, the bill would restore local municipalities' authority to enact their own regulations on single-use plastics and similar items.

Why is this important

This bill directly affects environmental policy-making authority in Michigan. Currently, only the state can regulate plastic bags; repealing the preemption would allow cities and counties to independently establish stricter local standards, reflecting their communities' environmental priorities and waste management concerns.

Potential points of contention

  • Local vs. state authority: Supporters argue local control enables responsive environmental policy; opponents contend uniform state standards prevent regulatory fragmentation and business compliance burdens
  • Business impact: Companies operating across multiple municipalities may face varying requirements, potentially increasing compliance costs; environmental advocates counter that market competition drives innovation
  • Preemption philosophy: Disagreement over whether environmental protection warrants local flexibility or requires statewide uniformity to prevent a "patchwork" of regulations

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

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