House Natural Resources and Tourism Committee Chair Rep. David Martin this week issued the following statement after his committee held testimony on House Bill 5485, legislation to strengthen dam safety requirements, increase transparency, and ensure better coordination so risks don’t go unnoticed or ignored.

“I remain focused on ensuring Michigan’s infrastructure is safe and prepared for aging systems and environmental pressures,” said Martin. “We need to make necessary updates to our dam safety framework to improve oversight, strengthen emergency preparedness, and help prevent future tragedies.”

The bill modernizes Michigan’s dam safety approach by improving tracking of ownership, monitoring conditions, and assessing risk. While the state already regulates dam construction, maintenance, and inspection, this legislation strengthens how information is collected and shared and improves response times when concerns arise.

The need for reform has been underscored by past failures, including the 2020 Edenville and Sanford dam incidents that caused catastrophic flooding in Midland and Gladwin Counties. Ongoing concerns about aging infrastructure and federal scrutiny have further highlighted gaps in oversight.

“This weeks testimony was an important step in strengthening how Michigan manages critical infrastructure,” Martin said. “We need better information, stronger standards, and clear authority to act quickly when public safety is at risk.”

HB 5485 establishes a statewide dam registration system requiring owners to submit information on ownership, structural condition, hazard classification, and maintenance planning. It also strengthens inspection requirements, increases inspection frequency, and mandates updated emergency action plans for high-risk structures.

The measure also enhances engineering standards to improve resilience against extreme weather events. It expands state authority to intervene in emergencies and allows cost recovery when state action is needed to protect public safety. The bill also improves coordination between the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

In addition, it establishes a dam safety emergency fund and grant program to support repairs, removals, and planning efforts, while improving transparency and public access to safety information.

“This legislation is about prevention and accountability,” Martin said. “By modernizing our dam safety system, we are ensuring Michigan can identify risks early and respond effectively.”

HB 5485 remains under consideration by the House Natural Resources and Tourism Committee.