LANSING, Mich. — State Sen. Ed McBroom, R-Vulcan, shared the following statement on Wednesday regarding the Upper Peninsula Energy Task Force Committee’s first draft of recommendations and subsequent comments made by Attorney General Dana Nessel:
“While I appreciate the work of the task force, there are key points that should be considered when making recommendations, including feasibility and cost of a proposal. It seems both were ignored for many of the ideas generated by the task force.
“The report focused on propane supply, and even though many recommendations were made to address past and potential future issues dealing with propane, it was apparent that the main purpose of the task force was to look for alternatives to pipelines. Much emphasis was placed on increased storage and delivery by rail and truck, which have proven to be expensive in the past. The burden of paying for these proposals would fall on U.P. residents, businesses and the state.
“Of course, Attorney General Nessel praised the report’s recommendations as she continues her resolve to shut down Line 5 no matter the cost to the Upper Peninsula and the entire state. Regardless of the findings for propane alternatives, the report, and Nessel, continue to ignore the jobs, energy and impact of the other products Line 5 provides downstate and to the rest of the country.
“The recommendations also place the responsibility on the Legislature to further explore suggestions. The Legislature has already acted to help address the propane supply and energy needs of the Upper Peninsula and the entire state by supporting the creation of the tunnel.”
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