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 and water pollution, and pest infestations. The director is required to conduct an on-site inspection within seven business days of receiving a complaint and notify local authorities. Additionally, the bill establishes a memorandum of understanding with the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy to ensure that environmental complaints are handled appropriately. It also introduces a provision that allows the director to charge complainants for the costs of investigating unverified complaints after a certain threshold.

Furthermore, the bill sets forth new standards for the rearing of egg-laying hens in residential areas, including property size and maximum hen limits. It requires the commission to issue and adopt generally accepted agricultural and management practices for these operations by specified deadlines. The bill also clarifies that manure management plans must be provided to local authorities upon request and are exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding agricultural practices while balancing the interests of farmers and local communities.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 286.474