Michigan House Bill HB5115

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/23/25
• Refer: 10/23/25
• Report Pass: 11/12/25

Caption

Environmental protection: underground storage tanks; underground storage tank corrective action fund; modify. Amends secs. 21502, 21503, 21506a, 21506b, 21510, 21510a, 21510d, 21515, 21516, 21518, 21519, 21519a, 21521, 21524 & 21548 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.21502 et seq.) & repeals sec. 21510c of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.21510c).

Impact

The proposed amendments are designed to update the regulatory framework surrounding USTs by improving accountability and financial responsibility requirements for tank operators. By requiring operators to demonstrate compliance with regulations and assuming financial responsibility for corrective actions arising from releases, the bill aims to ensure that funds are utilized effectively to manage contamination issues. Additionally, enhancements to the reimbursement process for corrective actions are expected to alleviate financial burdens on local governments while facilitating quicker remediation of contaminated sites.

Summary

House Bill 5115 seeks to amend sections of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, focusing primarily on the management of underground storage tanks (USTs) and the associated cleanup efforts required following the release of petroleum products. The bill outlines processes for corrective actions, eligibility for reimbursements from the underground storage tank cleanup fund, and establishes a legacy release program for historical contamination cases. Such measures are intended to streamline the response to petroleum releases, enhance public safety, and mitigate environmental impacts caused by UST failures.

Contention

Notably, while many stakeholders support the bill for its potential to address environmental hazards from aging and failing USTs, there may be concerns regarding the extent of financial liabilities imposed on small operators or local agencies. Furthermore, discussions over the legacy release program reflect broader anxieties about historical contamination accountability, ensuring that both past and present UST offenses are given proper attention within the legislation. This can spark debates over the feasibility of resource allocations and the prioritization of environmental remediation against economic pressures on local entities.