The bill amends the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act by updating Section 205 to clarify the regulations surrounding zoning ordinances. It specifies that zoning ordinances must comply with various acts, including the Electric Transmission Line Certification Act, the Regional Transit Authority Act, and the Small Wireless Communications Facilities Deployment Act. Notably, it removes references to the Clean and Renewable Energy and Energy Waste Reduction Act, indicating a shift in focus regarding energy-related regulations. Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions under which local governments can regulate the extraction of natural resources, emphasizing that such regulations should not prevent extraction unless very serious consequences are anticipated.

Furthermore, the bill establishes criteria for evaluating the potential consequences of mining activities, referencing the standards set in the Silva v. Ada Township case. It allows for the consideration of various factors, such as the impact on existing land uses, property values, and public safety. The bill also clarifies that local governments retain the authority to regulate operational aspects of mining, such as hours of operation and noise levels, as long as these regulations are reasonable. Lastly, it introduces a provision that ensures the state regulatory authority remains intact under other statutes, and it stipulates that the amendments will only take effect if Senate Bill No. 322 is enacted into law.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 125.3205