Environment (Economic Development)

SB 213 requires the Michigan Strategic Advisory Board to create a 10-year economic development plan for the state within one year of its appointment, with annual updates thereafter. The plan must include specific goals covering all regions (rural, suburban, urban), infrastructure needs, affordable housing, environmental protection, water resources, education access, and economic opportunities for all residents. It mandates measurable metrics for success, such as population growth and resident prosperity, and requires a "whole-government approach" to achieve these objectives. The bill directly affects the Strategic Advisory Board and Michigan Strategic Fund by establishing their planning obligations under the Michigan Strategic Fund Act.

SB 553 amends Michigan's tax increment financing (TIF) law to allow municipalities to fund water resource improvements using TIF revenues. It specifically adds projects like lake management, shoreline protection, stormwater systems, invasive species control, and public access to inland lakes or rivers to the list of eligible TIF activities. Municipalities can now create authorities within designated "water resource improvement districts" (areas near lakes, rivers, or harbors) to finance these projects through captured tax revenues. The bill clarifies definitions for terms like "water resource improvement" and "water resource improvement district" to ensure TIF funds are properly applied to environmental and public access enhancements.

SB 666 amends Michigan's 2008 law on alternative fuel facilities to update information procedures and remove references to the defunct Michigan Strategic Fund. It requires the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy to compile and publish clear, publicly accessible guidance on application processes for building biodiesel, ethanol, and other alternative fuel production facilities. The bill directs the department to coordinate with agencies like the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and review regulations that might hinder alternative fuel development. This affects businesses seeking to establish such facilities by clarifying state requirements and pathways. The bill is tied to SB 631, which must also pass for it to take effect.