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State Senate Approves Regulation Limits

LANSING (AP) - The Michigan Senate has approved legislation that would limit the authority of state departments to adopt regulations for businesses that are tougher than federal rules.

An eight-bill package passed the Republican-led Senate mostly along party lines Thursday. The measures next go to the Republican-led House.

Republicans say the bills are part of a plan to streamline and quicken the process for businesses seeking permits and other approvals needed to operate in Michigan. The legislation would allow Michigan to adopt regulations that are more stringent than federal rules, but only when approved by state legislators and put in law.

The Michigan Environmental Council says the measures weaken protections for the Great Lakes by limiting executive branch authority.

Republicans say the environment would remain protected.
  
Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.

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