The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to enhance the regulation of dams and impoundments in Michigan. It introduces new sections and modifies existing provisions to clarify the department's jurisdiction over these structures, including the requirement for permits for construction, repair, and alteration activities. Certain projects, such as those licensed under the federal power act and those on boundary waters under the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' jurisdiction, are exempt from these permit requirements. The bill also establishes a process for managing critical energy infrastructure documents and outlines conditions under which permit fees may be waived for nonprofit organizations. Additionally, it revises the fee structure for permit applications based on dam height and introduces a mechanism for adjusting these fees every three years to account for inflation.

Moreover, the bill establishes a dam risk reduction grant program to provide financial assistance to dam owners for projects aimed at improving dam safety, including repairs, alterations, and removals. To qualify for a grant, owners must demonstrate their ability to contribute at least 10% in matching funds. The bill also creates a dam safety emergency fund to address significant safety risks when owners are unable or unwilling to take corrective actions, and it outlines the responsibilities of dam owners in maintaining emergency action plans and conducting regular inspections. The department is authorized to recover costs incurred in taking remedial actions from the owners, with recovered funds being deposited back into the dam safety emergency fund. Overall, the amendments aim to strengthen dam safety and environmental protection in Michigan.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-4): 324.31502
Substitute (S-2): 324.31502
House Introduced Bill: 324.31502
As Passed by the House: 324.31502
As Passed by the Senate: 324.31502