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Bill

SB 711

Environmental protection: water pollution; water resources protection; modify. Amends sec. 3103 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.3103).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rosemary Bayer and 4 co-sponsors

SB 711 modifies Michigan's water pollution control statute but specific amendments require committee review to assess environmental and economic impacts.

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Bill Summary · SB 711

Legislative bill overview

SB 711 amends Michigan's water pollution control statute (MCL 324.3103) to modify protections for water resources. The bill was recently introduced in the Michigan Senate and referred to the Energy and Environment Committee. The specific amendments are not detailed in the available information, making the precise scope of changes unclear at this stage.

Why is this important

Water pollution control statutes directly affect drinking water safety, ecosystem health, and industrial regulation across Michigan. Modifications to these foundational environmental laws can significantly impact public health, environmental compliance costs for businesses, and the state's ability to protect its substantial freshwater resources. Given Michigan's reliance on the Great Lakes and numerous inland waterways, changes to water protection standards carry substantial practical consequences.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of amendments unclear: Without knowing whether SB 711 strengthens or weakens pollution controls, stakeholders cannot yet evaluate its merit; environmentalists and industry groups will likely have opposing views depending on the specific changes
  • Economic vs. environmental trade-offs: Water protection measures often increase compliance costs for manufacturers, municipalities, and agricultural operations, creating tension between environmental protection and economic burden
  • Implementation and enforcement: Modifications may affect how the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy enforces regulations, potentially impacting both compliance resources and regulatory burden on regulated entities

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

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