Michigan Townships Association

MTA: Updated solid waste laws protect local government authority, provide essential tools

The following statement should be attributed to Michigan Townships Association (MTA) Executive Director Neil Sheridan:

The Michigan Townships Association appreciates the Legislature’s leadership in protecting local authority on the long-needed statutory action modernizing Michigan’s solid waste laws, which passed in this year’s final day of legislative session. MTA is among the many partners that have been involved in stakeholder meetings and negotiations on this landmark legislation that has been worked on for seven years and through three legislative sessions. Michigan’s solid waste laws have not been updated in more than a quarter-century, and the legislation helps to protect our environment and also creates state regulatory and enforcement authority over composting facilities. In addition, it provides local governments with essential tools to address waste diversion opportunities and challenges, allowing for officials’ knowledge and insights to help guide what actions make the most sense for their community.