Bill Text: MI HJRS | 2023-2024 | 102nd Legislature | Introduced
Bill Title: Environmental protection: pollution prevention; green initiative; provide for. Amends the state constitution by adding sec. 29 to art. I.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 8-0)
Status: (Introduced) 2024-04-30 - Printed Joint Resolution Filed 04/25/2024 [HJRS Detail]
Download: Michigan-2023-HJRS-Introduced.html
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION S
A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the state constitution of 1963, by adding section 29 of article I, to recognize an inherent and inalienable right to a clean environment and natural resources and to ensure that the state acts as a trustee for the natural resources of this state.
Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the state of Michigan, That the following amendment to the state constitution of 1963, to recognize an inherent and inalienable right to a clean environment and natural resources and to ensure that the state acts as a trustee for the natural resources of this state, is proposed, agreed to, and submitted to the people of the state:
article I
Sec. 29. (1) Every person has an inherent and inalienable right to a clean and healthy environment, including clean water, air, and soils; balanced ecosystems; a stable climate; and the preservation of the natural, cultural, recreational, and healthful qualities of the environment. This state, including each branch, agency, and political subdivision, shall take no action that would infringe on these rights and shall protect these rights equitably for all people regardless of race, ethnicity, socioeconomics, or geography.
(2) This state's natural resources, including, but not limited to, surface water, groundwater, wetlands, ecosystems, air, native flora and fauna, soils, and climate, are the common property of all the people, including both present and future generations. This state, including each branch, agency, and political subdivision, shall serve as trustee of these resources and conserve, protect, and maintain these resources for the benefit of all the people.
(3) The inalienable rights and trustee responsibilities recognized in this section may be directly invoked and enforced by the people of this state.
Resolved further, That the foregoing amendment shall be submitted to the people of the state at the next general election in the manner provided by law.
