The bill amends the 1955 PA 233, which governs the incorporation of municipal authorities responsible for sewage disposal, water supply, and solid waste management systems. It authorizes certain authorities to appoint or employ law enforcement officers, enhancing their operational capabilities. The bill introduces definitions for "qualified authority," referring to those with significant treatment capacities, and "law enforcement agency," pertaining to agencies created by qualified authorities. It clarifies the enforcement powers of these authorities, allowing them to adopt ordinances, impose civil fines for violations, and issue citations, thereby strengthening governance and enforcement mechanisms.

Additionally, the bill establishes that law enforcement officers within qualified authorities are recognized as peace officers of the state, with powers equivalent to police officers. It mandates that these law enforcement agencies submit monthly uniform crime reports to the Department of State Police for consistent crime data tracking. The bill also modifies language regarding enforcement powers, specifying that municipalities and Indian tribes can take actions against violators within their jurisdiction. Terminology updates include replacing "promulgated" with "adopted" and ensuring that costs and fees in enforcement actions align with the revised judicature act, enhancing clarity and efficiency in law enforcement operations.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-1): 124.281
House Introduced Bill: 124.281
As Passed by the House: 124.281