Environmental protection: hazardous products; use of perchloroethylene in dry cleaning solvents; prohibit. Amends 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.101 - 324.90106) by adding subpt. 3 to pt. 147.
Impact
The bill introduces the establishment of a dedicated fund known as the perchloroethylene fund, which will facilitate financial assistance for dry cleaning facilities transitioning away from perchloroethylene-based products. Grants will be available under a cost-share program established by the department of environment, Great Lakes, and energy, which will also provide information on safer alternative solvents and processes. This shift is expected to not only enhance public health protections but also drive innovation in developing eco-friendlier cleaning alternatives.
Summary
House Bill 5454 proposes significant amendments to the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, specifically targeting the use of perchloroethylene in dry cleaning applications. This bill seeks to prohibit the manufacture, sale, and use of this hazardous solvent over a phased timeline—starting with manufacturing bans in 2031, followed by sales restrictions in 2032, and culminating with a ban on all uses by December 1, 2032. The legislation aims to reduce the environmental and public health risks associated with perchloroethylene, which is known for its toxic properties and potential negative impacts on air and water quality.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support for its environmental protection goals, some stakeholders have voiced concerns regarding the economic impact on small dry cleaners that rely on perchloroethylene. Critics argue that the transition to alternative solvents may involve significant costs, and the timing of the phase-out could impose challenges on businesses endeavoring to adopt new practices. Balancing environmental health and economic viability presents a tense dynamic in discussions surrounding HB5454.
Environmental protection: pollution prevention; coal tar sealant or other high-PAH sealant for pavement; prohibit use and sale. Amends 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.101 - 324.90106) by adding pt. 149.
Trade: consumer goods and services; personal care products containing plastic microbeads; prohibit manufacture and acceptance for sale. Amends 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.101 - 324.90106) by adding subpt. 3 to pt. 147.
Trade: consumer goods and services; personal care products containing plastic microbeads; prohibit manufacture and acceptance for sale. Amends 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.101 - 324.90106) by adding subpt. 3 to pt. 147.
Environmental protection: other; grant program for farmers affected by polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS); create. Amends 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.101 - 324.90106) by adding pt. 4. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5894'26
Amending the Kansas drycleaner environmental response act to modify the penalties for violations of the act, the required deductible rate for corrective actions, the environmental surcharge rate, the solvent fee and the delinquency penalty related to environmental surcharges and solvent fees.
Alabama Drycleaning Response Trust Fund Board, requirement that the Alabama Department of Environmental Management prevent involvement of other units of government in contamination problems deleted; required minimum balance in Alabama Drycleaning Environmental Response Trust Fund reduced from one million to two hundred fifty thousand dollars