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Snyder: Line 5 Should Eventually Be Shut Down

Via AP Photo/Al Goldis

Governor Rick Snyder wants an oil and gas pipeline that runs beneath the Straits of Mackinac to eventually be de-commissioned. Capital Bureau Chief Rick Pluta tells us the governor said so speaking to reporters on Mackinac Island.

The mist-shrouded straits served as a backdrop as the governor answered questions on a variety of topics. When asked about Enbridge Energy’s Line 5, he said the environmental risks are too great for it to remain where it’s been for the past 60 years. He says there will be money to adopt more protections for the straits in the new state budget, but, at some point, Line 5 to has to go.

“Having a pipeline on the bottom of the Great Lakes is not a great long-term solution." Said Snyder. "We’re at risk. So how do you take it where you remove the risk.”

The governor is waiting on reports that outline the risks, and potential alternatives. He’s said burying the pipeline beneath the lake bed is one option. Environmental groups have called for the state to immediately revoke the easement that allows Line 5 to run under the straits.

Rick Pluta is Senior Capitol Correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.
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