The legislature has passed several pieces of legislation allowing for some of the dredging needs across Michigan to be addressed. The most critical piece of legislation passed was a supplemental appropriations bill, Senate Bill 233, which will dedicate funds to allow for emergency dredging in 49 harbors.

Other legislation sent to the governor included Senate Bill 252. This bill will create the Marina Dredging Loan Program, allowing private marina’s greater access to loans backed by banks. The final pieces of legislation were House Bills 4398, 4399, and 4400. These bills would allow for emergency permits to be issued for dredging projects on Great Lakes Bottom Lands or inland lakes where the dredging materials consisted of at least 90% sand.

John LaMacchia is a Legislative Associate for the League handling transportation issues. He can be reached at [email protected] or 517-908-0303.