HB 4511 Summary

• Changes word "assure" to "ensure" in section 3106 regarding the department's authority to issue permits for municipal, industrial, and commercial discharges affecting state waters.

• Establishes that pipelines transporting crude oil or petroleum must comply with part 5 of the water resources protection rules (R 324.2001 to R 324.2009).

• Requires pipelines located on Great Lakes bottomlands to be operated so they do not pose threats to public health, safety, welfare, environment, or public trust; authorizes department to conduct regular inspections and impose operational conditions such as sufficient anchors.

• Creates Part 618 (Pipeline Spill Emergency Response) requiring pipeline owners/operators to prepare and submit emergency response plans to the Department of Environmental Quality and Michigan Public Service Commission, including information required under 49 CFR 194 and conduct periodic release response drills with local government consultation.

• Mandates immediate notification to the department when a pipeline release occurs or may occur, and requires immediate notification of affected property owners; authorizes the department to promulgate implementing rules; bill is contingent on enactment of HB 4512 and HB 4513.