Michigan's Climate Policy: The Pursuit of a Sustainable Future

• In Event: Poster Session: Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy 1 & Comparative Health Policy
  In Poster Session: Poster Session 1: Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy

Abstract

The realities of climate change are here and in the absence of encompassing federal policies directing action it is left to the states to help set our course for the future. At the forefront of state action is Michigan which recently passed sweeping legislation on climate mitigation, placing the state as a national leader on climate policy. This paper will examine the connections between infrastructure, environmental justice, and climate change in Michigan. The legislation was passed with strong Democratic support, but Republicans and some environmentalists are concerned about the feasibility of the state to implement the legislation especially when some states, like California, are having to back down from their green energy goals. Successful implementation of this policy will provide an important roadmap for states wishing to implement similar goals. In addition, because of the political makeup of Michigan, the ability to successfully implement this progressive climate legislation will provide important lessons for other states wishing to pursue a future with sustainable public policy.

Authors

• Laura U. Schneider, Grand Valley State University

• Nancy Hoogwerf