A Michigan Congressman has introduced legislation that could lead to the shutdown of the Line 5 Pipeline beneath the Straits of Mackinac.
The Great Lakes Oil Spill Prevention Act would put criteria in place for all future and current pipelines in the Great Lakes, including increased financial penalties and a restriction that no pipeline be older than 50 years. Line 5 is 64 years old.
Republican Congressman Mike Bishop introduced the Act. He said the bill would apply retroactively.
“One of the provisions is that no pipeline be older than 50 years. The line 5 pipeline is 64 years old. That would be a concern immediately and one that might run crosswise with the bill as written.”
Bishop said it’s important to protect the Great Lakes.
“I’ve lived in Michigan my entire life. I have a deep affinity for our Great Lakes as do most people from Michigan and we really do want to protect them. So that really is what the whole point is, to make sure the Great Lakes are there for our children and grandchildren.”
Bishop said one spill would be too many, and the Great Lakes need to be protected.
He said he spoke with Enbridge before introducing the act and says they were understanding of his position.
In a written statement a spokesperson for Enbridge Energy said quote “Enbridge is focused on maintaining the safety and integrity of our pipelines.”
The full statement from Enbridge can be read below:
Enbridge is focused on maintaining the safety and integrity of our pipelines and ensuring delivery of critical resources that provide needed energy to Michigan homes and businesses. We are committed to moving forward with the work outlined in our agreement with the State of Michigan which enhances our safe operations.