Back in 2020, the state updated its environmental regulations for big industrial farms.
These farms need permits because the wastewater contains several pollutants.
But the Michigan Farm Bureau, on behalf of several farmers, sued, arguing the state overstepped its legal authority.
Now, Michigan’s highest court has sided with state regulators. Katie Garvey is an attorney involved in the case.
“It is a very big deal in the sense that it closes the door on a very technical, administrative law argument that … basically stops any effective permits from happening with respect to this industry.”
Garvey says it could’ve stymied environmental regulators in an ongoing way if they weren’t allowed to update rules and regulations.
In a statement, Farm Bureau disagreed with the decision. They say the updates were too sweeping and should be approved by elected legislators.
