South Michigan News

Senate Republicans in Michigan have proposed a six-bill package aimed at reversing energy policy mandates introduced by Democrats. The bills focus on restoring local control over zoning rules and reducing costs for consumers.

Senator Michele Hoitenga, R-Manton, criticized the current energy policies, stating, “Democrats’ Michigan Green New Deal 100% mandates have been a 100% failure.” She emphasized the need for clean and safe energy policies that benefit all residents of Michigan.

Hoitenga introduced Senate Bill 322 to repeal alternative energy mandates enacted in 2023. The bill also seeks to enhance incentives for waste reduction and energy savings while restoring local zoning authority for renewable projects. “Local leaders and residents should never have been cut out of the conversation when it comes to energy projects coming to their communities,” Hoitenga remarked.

Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt introduced SB 323, which aims to reduce the powers granted to the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) concerning local zoning ordinances. Nesbitt stated, “It’s time to put the people of Michigan first when it comes to our state’s energy policy.”

Senator Roger Hauck's SB 324 intends to restore requirements for MPSC authorization of shared savings programs related to energy waste reduction. Hauck expressed concern over cost increases from previous mandates: “People cannot afford and did not support the overly burdensome, partisan mandates that were passed last term.”

SB 325 by Senator Joseph Bellino seeks to eliminate provisions requiring MPSC consideration of climate and equity goals in its decisions. Bellino emphasized that access to affordable and reliable energy should be prioritized over political or environmental agendas.

The package also includes SB 326 from Senator Thomas Albert, which would close an office designed by Democrats for economic transition away from coal-powered plants. Albert highlighted concerns about government intervention in energy policy.

Lastly, SB 327 by Senator Kevin Daley would prevent agricultural properties in preservation programs from being used for large solar installations. Daley stressed the importance of protecting farms from what he described as an aggressive green agenda.