Members of the Michigan House Energy Committee have introduced House Bills 6247, 6248, and 6249, a legislative package designed to create a comprehensive state-run regulatory framework for carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects.
Supported by the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, the legislation initiates the process of transferring Class VI underground carbon injection well oversight from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).
Securing Class VI “primacy” from federal authorities would allow state regulators to process underground carbon storage permits directly, significantly streamlining review timelines for commercial developers.
Advocates contend that establishing local regulatory authority will provide greater policy certainty, helping attract clean energy investments and support the long-term competitiveness of Michigan’s industrial manufacturing base.
Carbon capture technology is increasingly viewed as an essential decarbonization tool for hard-to-abate heavy industries in the state, including cement, steel, chemical manufacturing, and power generation.
Business And Labor Coalition Drives Campaign For State Primacy
The legislative push is spearheaded by MI SUCCESS, a coalition of business, labor, and environmental leaders organized by the Michigan Chamber to advocate for responsible carbon management infrastructure.
Supporters emphasize that carbon capture and geological sequestration technologies have operated safely within Michigan for roughly two decades, backed by bipartisan policy support across multiple presidential administrations.
Relevant: Ohio Establishes Statewide Framework For Carbon Storage
By establishing a dedicated state permitting program, coalition members argue Michigan can position itself as a regional hub for low-carbon manufacturing while maintaining strict environmental oversight.
Working through the MI SUCCESS coalition, the Michigan Chamber plans to urge House lawmakers to advance the three-bill package through committee hearings in the coming legislative session.
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