Michigan DEQ seeks comments on proposed changes to Air Pollution Control Rules

The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) announced on Monday that it is seeking public comment on proposed revisions to the state’s Air Pollution Control Rules.

The revisions focus on transparency, public engagement and toxic air contaminant analysis.

“We look forward to comments from residents living near industrial facilities as well as business interests that must obtain air permits,” DEQ Air Quality Division Chief Lynn Fiedler said. “We have provided a Frequently Asked Questions document as well as a rule-by-rule summary to help describe the proposed changes to those interested in commenting.”

The proposed changes also include provisions on Renewable Operating Permits and installation permit exemptions. To further inform state residents on the revisions, the DEQ will host two public hearings December 7 in Lansing, one in the afternoon and one in the evening, which will both include a question and answer session.

The proposed drafts of the rules and all support documents are available online at the DEQ’s website, and the department will be accepting public comments for an extended period, ending on December 18.