LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – Lawmakers in the state House passed two bills Wednesday that overturn part of the state’s energy laws. The changes would transfer control of citing new energy farms from the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) to local municipalities.
Many Republicans in the House campaigned on the changes and celebrated their passing, but Democrats aren’t as enthusiastic.
House Democrats said giving control over citations to the MPSC makes it easier to get projects underway. The commission only needs permission from the landowner, rather than the township, a distinction Representative Donovan McKinney said is key as farmers age and struggle to find a use for their land.
Democrats are also concerned the state wouldn’t meet its energy goals if the law is changed. McKinney says it’s a statewide effort that requires everyone to stick together to lower energy costs across the board.
“We love our locals, I love our local governments, but this is an opportunity for us to continue on the clean energy economy and keep jobs here. Having utility solar available just gives us more of an opportunity to look at different options to lower costs for families.” McKinney said. “This is a statewide effort. It’s kind of like healthcare, you need everybody to be bought into the system to lower costs across the board. We need everybody to stick together in this.”
The bills passed in the House, 58-48, and are now awaiting further consideration in the Senate.
