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Bill

SB 441

Environmental protection: sewage; municipal stormwater utilities; provide for, and authorize fee. Creates new act.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rosemary Bayer and 2 co-sponsors

SB 441 authorizes Michigan municipalities to establish stormwater utility fees on properties to fund sewage and stormwater infrastructure management.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT
#cities:ordinances #counties:ordinances #drains:sewers #environmentalprotection:funding #environmentalprotection:sewage #landuse:other #townships:ordinances #villages:ordinances
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Bill Summary · SB 441

Legislative bill overview

SB 441 creates a new statutory framework authorizing Michigan municipalities to establish stormwater utility programs and charge fees to property owners for stormwater management services. The bill enables local governments to fund infrastructure improvements related to sewage and stormwater handling through dedicated revenue mechanisms rather than general taxation.

Why is this important

Aging stormwater and sewage infrastructure in many Michigan communities requires significant investment, and federal/state funding is limited. This bill gives municipalities a dedicated funding tool to address flooding, water quality issues, and combined sewer overflows without relying solely on general property taxes or state grants.

Potential points of contention

  • Fee structure concerns: Property owners may view stormwater fees as additional taxation; debates likely over whether fees should be based on impervious surface area, property size, or flat rates, as different approaches affect residential vs. commercial properties differently
  • Equity and affordability: Low-income households and renters could face increased housing costs; municipalities may lack resources to offer fee waivers or assistance programs for vulnerable populations
  • Municipal implementation variation: Without state standards, fee amounts and eligibility requirements could vary significantly across communities, creating inconsistency and potential disputes over fairness

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

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