Michigan lawmakers move to overhaul dam safety laws

Michigan lawmakers moved to overhaul what had been called the nation's weakest dam safety laws, a step that followed a major dam failure in mid‑Michigan a few years ago. The new legislation aims to strengthen flood control standards, increase required inspections, and require dam owners to demonstrate financial and maintenance capacity.

The measure was spurred by the 2020 Edenville dam failure and is expected to benefit many dams in the area, including the Oxbow Lake dam in White Lake Township. Residents Sue and James Whiteman welcomed the bipartisan effort, noting that improved dam safety would keep water cleaner and protect local wildlife.

Task Force chair Evan Pratt, former Washtenaw County Water Resources Commissioner, said the bill will add additional forms and funding for inspections, easing the burden on dam owners.

Read the full story at FOX 2 Detroit.