Throughout March, county Farm Bureau members and Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) supporters contacted state representatives and senators in opposition to a proposal to remove legislative oversight from the state’s water quality rulemaking process.
More than 900 individuals sent 1,800+ messages to legislators, urging them to vote no on the proposal should it come before them. The messages are in addition to a dozen local county Farm Bureau events held over the spring legislative recess where farm members discussed this issue and others with their lawmakers.
View a breakdown by MFB district and county.
If passed, Senate Bill 663 and House Bill 5205 would restore legislative authority over water quality rulemaking to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), a move contested by MFB and backed by the organization’s member-developed policy.
While the action request campaign has concluded, MFB Legislative Counsel Ben Tirrell encourages members to continue advocating against the proposal.
“It’s unclear if, or how soon, the Legislature will continue its consideration of the bills so it’s important that if you have an opportunity to visit with your representative or senator, you share your concerns,” said Tirrell, who provided the sample talking points below.
“We’re appreciative of everyone who took the time to send messages and be a voice for agriculture; the messages serve an important role as we continue advocating against this proposal.”
Senate Bill 663 was advanced by the Senate Energy and Environment Committee to the Senate floor on March 7, while the House Bill 5205 has yet to be moved out of the House Natural Resources, Environment, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Committee.
The bills are sponsored by Sen. Sue Shink (D-Northfield) and Rep. Emily Dievendorf (D-Lansing), respectively.
Suggested Talking Points
- MFB supports timely, effective, and consistent enforcement of environmental laws.
- MFB supports retaining legislative authority in the water quality rulemaking process.
- Transparency and stakeholder input is critical in policy decisions.
- EGLE struggles to create rules that use sound science and consider economic impact.
- EGLE’s shortcomings disproportionately affect small businesses like farms and food processors, as well as the rural communities they support.
If you’d like information about getting involved in local legislative events, contact your county Farm Bureau office or Michigan Farm Bureau regional manager.