Rep. Doug Wozniak introduces a plan targeting counties dumping sewage into public waterways, citing Oakland County’s discharge practices as an example.
Plan to Protect Michigan Waterways Targets Sewage Dumping
LANSING, Mich. — State Rep. Doug Wozniak, R-Shelby Township, unveiled legislation Tuesday to combat sewage discharge into Michigan waterways. The plan imposes penalties of up to $1 million per month on counties that fail to address repeated discharges of sewage and other substances into public water systems.
The bill comes amid a growing conflict between Oakland and Macomb Counties, where heavy rains have caused Oakland County to discharge combined sewage and rainwater into the Red Run Drain, which flows into the Clinton River and ultimately into Lake St. Clair.
“No county should be dumping its waste onto another county, especially when the dumping practice is a direct result of blatant mismanagement,” said Wozniak. “Macomb is bearing the brunt of Oakland’s decisions, but this issue could arise anywhere in Michigan if we don’t take action.”
Oakland County Permit Dispute Under Scrutiny
At the heart of the issue is Oakland County’s combined sewage system, which has been discharging into the Red Run Drain during heavy rainfall. The county’s discharge permit expired in 2023, but current state law allows it to operate under the expired permit while the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE) considers its renewal application.
Last year, Wozniak called on DEGLE to deny Oakland’s permit renewal until the county agreed to separate its combined sewage system. The new legislation would further tighten restrictions, requiring counties with violations to submit a discharge reduction plan. The plan must achieve at least a 50% reduction in discharge volume within five years. Counties failing to comply or whose plans are rejected by DEGLE could face fines of up to $1 million per month.
Heavy Rainfall No Excuse for Repeated Discharges
“Sporadic weather conditions, including heavy rains for days on end, are not uncommon in Michigan,” Wozniak said. “While unforeseen weather can overwhelm systems, counties must prioritize alternatives to habitual dumping into waterways.”
The issue has caused significant tensions between Oakland and Macomb Counties. Macomb residents and officials argue that untreated waste from Oakland has polluted the Clinton River and Lake St. Clair, which are vital resources for the region. Wozniak’s bill aims to ensure that counties invest in infrastructure to prevent such overflows.
Proposed Legislation and Broader Implications
Under Wozniak’s plan, counties with combined sewer systems must act decisively to reduce discharge events. The legislation encourages investment in system upgrades, such as separating stormwater and sewage infrastructure, a costly but critical measure.
“We’re not just protecting Macomb,” Wozniak emphasized. “This legislation sets a standard for all Michigan counties to maintain cleaner waterways and healthier communities.”
The bill will soon be referred to a House committee for further deliberation. It could set a precedent for how Michigan handles cross-county pollution disputes and sewage management if passed.
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