State Rep. Steve Frisbie and the Michigan House of Representatives today approved legislation to restore local decision-making and reverse the state’s authority over siting wind and solar energy projects.

House Bills 4027 and 4028 repeal controversial laws enacted in 2023, which granted the Michigan Public Service Commission—a panel of three unelected bureaucrats—the power to bypass local zoning and approve large-scale renewable energy projects without community consent. Frisbie, R-Battle Creek, emphasized the importance of empowering local communities to decide what’s best for them.

“Local communities deserve the right to determine their own futures, especially when it comes to significant projects like wind and solar farms,” Frisbie said. “People in Calhoun County and throughout Michigan are tired of Lansing bureaucrats overriding their concerns and forcing these projects into their backyards. Today’s vote honors my promises to stand up for our local communities against Lansing overreach.”

The state’s takeover of local siting decisions was part of a broader package mandating 100% “clean” energy by 2040, an aggressive plan likely to drive up electricity costs significantly for Michigan families. Rural communities, in particular, have expressed deep concerns about the rapid expansion of wind and solar projects, often implemented without adequate local input.

Frisbie underscored the economic importance of repealing these mandates: “Michigan families and businesses are already facing high energy bills. We don’t need additional burdens caused by hastily implemented green mandates. Restoring local control is essential—not only to protect community interests but also to avoid unnecessary financial strain on residents across our state.”

House Bills 4027 and 4028 now advance to the Senate for further consideration.

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