MI SB1565

Expands the definition of "contamination" under underground storage tank regulations to include hazardous substances commingled with regulated substances, breakdown products, and substances caused by releases from underground storage tank systems.

Establishes that guidelines, bulletins, interpretive statements, and operational memoranda issued under Part 213 are not legally binding and do not have the force and effect of law.

Creates a response activity panel to advise the director on technical or scientific disputes regarding final assessment reports and closure reports, with appeal rights for persons who submit such reports.

Modifies timelines for department review and approval of final assessment reports (180 days) and closure reports (365 days), with provisions for automatic approval if the department fails to respond within required timeframes.

Limits liability for owners and operators after closure report approval to subsequent releases not addressed in the report, contamination not addressed in the report, land use changes, monitoring-related issues, and failures to meet performance objectives identified in the closure report.