"Environmental Groups, Utilities Negotiate Michigan Coal Ash Rules"

"Groundwater contamination has been detected at a majority of the state’s 37 coal ash ponds, some of which are unlined."

"Michigan environmental groups negotiated with utilities late last year to strengthen a new statewide coal ash program, but more action is needed to address contaminated properties, they say.

Former Gov. Rick Snyder signed a bill during his last days in office creating a statewide coal ash permitting program that mirrors 2015 federal rules. The state program is subject to federal approval.

Environmental groups opposed an earlier version of the bill they said would have done little to address contamination and was weaker than federal requirements."

Andy Balaskovitz reports for Midwest Energy News January 30, 2019.