Michigan Gravel Mining Legislation 2025
Senate Bill 323 (2025) – Preventing Total Local Bans on Resource Extraction
Sponsors: Sen. Aric Nesbitt (R District 20), with cosponsors Albert, Hoitenga, Daley, Damoose, Bellino, Theis, Victory, Huizenga, Hauck, Lauwers, Webber
Summary: Prohibits townships or counties from banning mining/resource extraction unless "very serious consequences" are demonstrated, with zoning challenges guided by Silva v Ada Township. It preserves reasonable regulation for operations.
Status: Introduced May 21, 2025; referred to Senate Government Operations Committee.
Senate Bill 431 (2019)
Sponsor: Sen. Adam Hollier (D)
Goal: Centralize gravel mine permitting under EGLE.
Status: Failed.
Senate Bill 429 (2021)
Sponsor: Sen. Jim Ananich (D)
Goal: Prevent local governments from denying permits without clear danger.
Status: Passed Senate June 2, 2021 (19–17), referred to House Local Government & Municipal Finance; no floor vote as of June 2024.
House Bill 4526 (2023)
Sponsor: Rep. Pat Outman (R)
Goal: Reintroduce centralized permitting with penalties.
Status: Under House Committee review (2024).
Supporters & Opponents
Supporters: Michigan Aggregates Association, Road Builders Association, construction firms.
Opponents: Michigan Townships Association, Michigan Environmental Council, Sierra Club, local community groups.
Arguments
- Supporters: Promotes resource use, state-standard regulatory clarity.
- Opponents: Undermines local control, may threaten health, water & environment.
Timeline
• 2019 – SB 431 introduced
• 2021 – SB 429 introduced & passed Senate
• 2023 – HB 4526 introduced
• 2025 – SB 323 introduced (current session)
Take Action
- Contact your legislators—stress the importance of local zoning authority.
- Submit public comments via legislative portals.
- Attend hearings or host community briefings.