Stop the EPA from Rigging the Rules for Oil Pipelines
The Great Lakes are not a sacrifice zone.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed new rules that would weaken state and tribal authority under the Clean Water Act, making it easier for oil pipeline companies to push risky projects through federal permitting, even when they threaten water quality.
Why This Matters in Michigan
Enbridge wants to keep oil flowing through Line 5, a 72-year-old pipeline crossing the Straits of Mackinac. The company is seeking approval for a new tunnel and may pursue horizontal directional drilling beneath the Great Lakes, despite significant risks and unresolved questions.
Right now, Michigan has the authority to deny federal permits if these projects would violate water quality standards. EPA’s proposed rule would:
• Narrow what impacts states and tribes can consider
• Limit conditions that can be imposed on permits
• Speed approvals for massive infrastructure projects
• Undercut tribal sovereignty and treaty rights
Worse, Enbridge could further delay a decision on its Clean Water Act Section 404 permit from EGLE, and this rule change could influence the outcome.
ACTION PROGRESS
Take Action Now
Tell the EPA: Don’t weaken state and tribal power to protect the Great Lakes
Use our form below to submit a public comment opposing the proposed rule.
Our message is simple:
- Michigan and other states must have the authority to stop projects that put our waters at risk.
- Oil pipelines should not get special treatment.
- The Great Lakes are worth protecting. Act now.
Send the email as written below, or add your own thoughts.
Are You New Here?
Several organizations and citizens across the Great Lakes region are working to prevent oil from entering the Great Lakes and promote a transition to a clean energy economy. They've come together as Oil & Water Don't Mix, a campaign to protect the Great Lakes from dangerous oil pipelines.
We come from all walks of life and have our own areas of focus, including concerns about water quality, Indigenous rights, climate change, pollution, sustainable economies, protecting sporting, commerce, and tourism, and protecting the jobs that are dependent on our water and our Pure Michigan way of life.
This is a grassroots campaign funded by people from around the United States and world, plus we receive some funding from environmentally-focused foundations to help us reach more people.