LANSING, Mich. (June 18, 2026) — Today, the Senate Energy and Environment Committee passed Sen. Mallory McMorrow’s (D-Royal Oak) legislation to strengthen Michigan’s outdated dam safety regulations.
“Michigan’s aging dams are a serious public safety threat, and it’s about time we do something about them before more communities across the state experience the alarming situation that played out in Cheboygan earlier this spring when record rainfall nearly pushed the dam past its breaking point,” said Sen. McMorrow. “As we continue to see an uptick in flooding and severe weather brought on by climate change, we must ensure Michigan’s infrastructure is strong enough to withstand whatever is thrown its way. This is about saving lives, homes, and whole communities, and it’s time to get this done.”
Senate Bill 947 would ensure Michigan’s roughly 2,600 dams get the repairs, updates, and oversight they need. Learn more about the bill here, which now heads to the full Senate floor for consideration.
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