Federal laws passed in 1980 and 1985 made each state responsible for the low-level radioactive waste produced within its borders. Act 204 of 1987 created the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority (LLRWA) to fulfill state responsibilities under federal law for managing and assuring disposal capacity for the low-level radioactive waste produced in Michigan. The LLRWA began a facility siting process in 1989 under the statutory limits of Act 204. The LLRWA eventually determined that it was impossible to find a site within the state which would meet all of the siting criteria set forth in Act 204, and active facility siting activities were suspended. Current program goals for the LLRWA include:
- Monitor waste management activities by Michigan waste generators, and develop an annual report to the Legislature;
- Advise the Governor and Legislature on federal and state policies and programs concerning nuclear waste management, transportation, and disposal issues;
- Serve as a resource for information on federal and state LLRW management and programs. The Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority was transferred into the Department of Environmental Quality in 1996 by Executive Order 1996-2 (3-15-96).
Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority Historical Summary 1987:
Passage of Act 204, establishing the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority within the Department of Management and Budget, and establishes a siting process to be implemented by the LLRWA.
1989: The LLRWA announces three candidate areas to be studied further.
1990: No candidate areas will meet statutory siting criteria.
1991: Michigan’s membership in Midwest Compact is revoked.
1992: LLRWA is transferred to the Department of Commerce by Executive Order.
1996: LLRWA is transferred to the Department of Environmental Quality by Executive Order.
Statutory Authority
Act 204, PA 1987, as amended; MCL Sections 333.26201 et seq.
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