MI HCR0006

Urges other Great Lakes states (Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin) and Canada (Ontario, Quebec) to adopt ballast water standards equivalent to the 2013 federal Vessel General Permit requirements.

Identifies aquatic invasive species (AIS) introduced through ship ballast water as a primary threat to Great Lakes health, with past invasions estimated to cost the region more than $100 million annually.

Recognizes Great Lakes oceangoing shipping as economically vital, supporting nearly 18,000 jobs and more than $2.3 billion in annual business revenue in the U.S. and Canada combined.

Promotes uniform ballast water treatment standards across the region to prevent inconsistent regulations that would burden the shipping industry while protecting against invasive species introduction.

Directs copies of the resolution to be sent to governors of seven Great Lakes states, premiers of Ontario and Quebec, the Canadian Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, and the Council of Great Lakes Governors.