Testimony for a bill to allow a gas pipeline to run through Lansing and replace the one running through East Lansing was heard Tuesday in the Michigan House.
The bill, introduced by State Rep. Joseph Rivet, D-Bay City, would take away cities' final veto on pipelines passing through their borders on state-owned land. This would overrule a Michigan Supreme Court decision in June requiring the city of Lansing's approval for the proposed Wolverine Pipe Line Co. gas line along Interstate 96.
"I have no problem with local municipalities having input," Rivet said, but added, "this is state property that we have the responsibility for in the state government.
"For a local government to say, 'We don't like you, Wolverine Pipe Line,' they can stop important infrastructures in the state of Michigan."
As the third phase of a project, the 26-mile pipeline would pass through six communities including the city of Lansing. Lansing was the only city to oppose the measure because of safety concerns and has engaged in an ongoing battle to fight it.
The pipeline would replace an almost 70-year-old line that currently runs through Lansing, East Lansing and Meridian Township.
State Rep. Mike Murphy, D-Lansing, led the fight against the bill in the House on Tuesday.
"This bill is being rushed through the Legislature when we need to take time to review and discuss it," he said. "This bad public policy - you're talking about taking away the rights of local government."
Murphy said changing the law would allow any public utility to run lines along the highway without local consent.
"What's being proposed in this bill not only affects Lansing, but city and townships across the state," he said. "The Wolverine people can make their case for why we need a pipeline but there are other options.
"Let's find another way."
Tom Shields, spokesman for Wolverine Pipe Line Co., said replacing the pipeline is the safest option for the Lansing area. He said the old pipeline is too old and narrow to meet the gas needs of Mid-Michigan.
"It's an antiquated system," he said. "Most communities in most states would be thrilled to have a brand new infrastructures."
Shields said the new pipeline would accommodate the area's needs for the next 30 years and would be safer because of the updated technology and location by the highway.
"It's a needed fix," he said.
If the bill passed, the final decision on pipelines in state would go to the Michigan Public Service Commission which already has approved Wolverine's project. All projects are held to strict safety requirements and are monitored throughout their progress, said commission spokeswoman Judy Palnau.
"Citizens would be allowed to comment with their concerns if they have one," Palnau said.
