Posted on December 30, 2010 by Jack Shumate
Michigan’s Governor–elect Rick Snyder has announced that he intends to split the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) into two departments – the MDNR and a Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) – after he takes office on January 2, 2011.
This will be the latest change in an oft – reorganized environmental enforcement structure in Michigan. The two functions were originally consolidated in the MDNR, but it was recognized that they were incompatible after the MDNR was forced to fine itself for dumping toxic substances into a river, resulting in a major sport fish kill. The current Governor, Jennifer Granholm, merged the two departments again in an effort to save money.
Details of how regulatory functions will be divided have not been announced but it may be anticipated that Governor-elect Snyder, a former corporate CEO, will favor a regulatory regime that seeks to encourage growth and development of business in the state.
For further information contact Jack D. Shumate at shumate@butzel.com.
Tags: News Updates