Michigan lawmakers consider police powers for Great Lakes Water Authority security needs

The Michigan Legislature convened on May 15, 2025, to discuss regulatory reforms, focusing primarily on proposed bills concerning the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA). The meeting began with Chair Aragona outlining the agenda, which included voting on bills sponsored by Representatives Carter and Mueller aimed at granting police powers to the GLWA.

The GLWA, which provides drinking water to approximately 40% of Michigan's population and wastewater services to about 30%, operates across a vast area from Monroe County to Flint and Genesee County. The authority's representatives emphasized the need for police powers to enhance security at their facilities, particularly due to the hazardous materials they manage and their proximity to the Canadian border. They noted that current security measures involve extensive patrols and incident responses, but without police powers, they are limited in their ability to act in emergencies.

Deputy CEO Bill Wolfson and other officials presented their case, sharing a specific incident where GLWA personnel witnessed an assault near their facility but could not intervene due to lack of authority. They argued that similar powers have been granted to other public entities, such as airport authorities and universities, and that these powers would allow GLWA to better protect its infrastructure and respond to threats.

The discussion included concerns about the implications of granting such powers, particularly regarding the potential for overreach and the precedent it might set for other entities. Tim Bauge, Executive Director of the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards, expressed opposition to the bills, suggesting that existing laws could provide the necessary authority without the need for new legislation. He highlighted that the GLWA could utilize existing frameworks to ensure security without expanding police powers to cover a large population area.

The meeting concluded with a series of questions from committee members, who expressed support for the GLWA's need for enhanced security while also considering the implications of the proposed legislation. The committee plans to continue discussions and may explore amendments to address concerns raised during the meeting. Further sessions are expected in June to delve deeper into these issues and potentially refine the proposed bills.