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 management of egg-laying hens in residential areas, requiring the commission to establish agricultural practices for their rearing by September 1, 2025. It sets specific standards for property size and the number of hens allowed. The bill also includes a provision that allows the director to charge complainants for investigation costs if they submit more than three unverified complaints against the same farm within three years. Other updates include clarifications on the definitions of terms used in the act and the establishment of a toll-free number for reporting noncompliance with agricultural practices.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 286.474