State Rep. Mike Hoadley today released the following statement regarding the ongoing permitting process for the proposed Line 5 pipeline tunnel beneath the Straits of Mackinac. Currently, Enbridge is seeking a permit from the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), which is critical to advance the tunnel project.   

“Line 5 is a critical piece of energy infrastructure that helps provide affordable, reliable energy to millions of people across the Great Lakes region,” said Hoadley (R-Au Gres). “Public participation is essential to ensure decision-makers hear from residents, workers, businesses, and the communities that depend on this energy source every day. Your voice can help shape the future of a safe and dependable energy supply.” 

Last week, EGLE hosted a virtual meeting attended by more than 200 residents to gain public input on the permit application. Others have until June 30 to submit their own comments.

In 2021, EGLE first approved an identical permit application. That permit later expired due to delays after Attorney General Dana Nessel spent millions of taxpayer dollars opposing the project in court.The Line 5 pipeline already supplies propane to much of the U.P. and Northern Michigan.

The 2023-24 Winter Energy Appraisal, released by the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC), estimated around 800,000 people rely on propane from Line 5 for heating.

The MPSC has already given its stamp of approval for the tunnel project, the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers is soon expected to do the same.