The bill amends the Michigan Right to Farm Act by updating the procedures for investigating complaints related to farm operations. It mandates that the director must investigate all complaints regarding various issues such as manure use, air pollution, and pest infestations, and conduct an on-site inspection within 7 business days of receiving a complaint. The bill also requires the director to notify local authorities of any complaints and to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy for handling environmental complaints. Additionally, if a farm is found to be using generally accepted agricultural practices, the director must inform the complainant and local authorities of this finding.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions for the establishment of generally accepted agricultural and management practices specifically for the rearing of egg-laying hens in residential areas, with a deadline for adoption set for October 1, 2025. It also stipulates that a complainant who submits more than three unverified complaints against the same farm within three years may be required to pay investigation costs for subsequent complaints. The bill emphasizes the importance of local governments in proposing ordinances that address environmental or public health concerns while ensuring that these do not conflict with state or federal laws.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 286.474