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Bill Summary · SB 710

Summary of Senate Bill 710

Bill Number: SB 710
Title: Environmental protection: pollution prevention; coal tar sealant or other high-PAH sealant for pavement; prohibit use and sale.
Introduced: November 13, 2025
Status: Referred to Committee on Energy and Environment
Classification: Bill
Subject: Environmental protection: other, pollution prevention, water pollution

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 710 aims to enhance environmental protection in Michigan by prohibiting the use and sale of coal tar sealants and other high-polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) sealants for pavement applications. The bill seeks to mitigate the environmental and health risks associated with these substances, which are known to contribute to water pollution and pose potential hazards to public health.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces Part 149 to the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (1994 PA 451), which includes the following key provisions:

  1. Definitions:

    • Coal Tar Sealant: Defined as a product containing coal tar or related substances with more than 0.1% PAHs by weight.
    • Other High-PAH Sealant: Includes products with similar PAH content derived from various petroleum sources.

  2. Prohibition on Application:

    • It is illegal for any person to apply coal tar sealants or other high-PAH sealants on asphalt, concrete, or other pavement surfaces.

  3. Prohibition on Sale:

    • The sale of coal tar sealants and other high-PAH sealants is prohibited, with exceptions for purchasers who provide a completed "no-Michigan-use" form or an exemption granted by the director of the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.

  4. Record Keeping:

    • Sellers must retain completed no-Michigan-use forms or exemption documentation for three years and allow department inspections.

  5. Exemptions:

    • The director may grant exemptions for research purposes if the use of these sealants is necessary for environmental studies or the development of alternative technologies.

  6. Penalties:

    • Violators of this part may face civil fines up to $5,000.

Affected Parties

  • Property Owners: Those applying coal tar sealants or high-PAH sealants on their properties will be directly impacted by the prohibition.
  • Retailers and Distributors: Businesses involved in the sale of these sealants will need to comply with the new regulations or face penalties.
  • Environmental Agencies: The Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy will be responsible for enforcement and oversight of compliance.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on November 13, 2025, and has been referred to the Committee on Energy and Environment for further consideration.
  • If enacted, the provisions of this bill will take effect 90 days after it becomes law.

Conclusion

Senate Bill 710 represents a significant step towards reducing environmental pollution in Michigan by targeting harmful sealants used in pavement applications. By prohibiting their use and sale, the bill aims to protect water quality and public health, while also establishing a framework for compliance and enforcement.

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

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