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Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority

Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority

Federal laws passed in 1980 and 1985 made each state responsible for the low-level radioactive waste produced within its borders. Act 204 of 1987 created the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority (LLRWA) to fulfill state responsibilities under federal law for managing and assuring disposal capacity for the low-level radioactive waste produced in Michigan. The LLRWA began a facility siting process in 1989 under the statutory limits of Act 204.

The Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority eventually determined that it was impossible to find a site within the state which would meet all of the siting criteria set forth in Act 204, and active facility siting activities were suspended. 

Current program goals for the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority include:

  • Monitor waste management activities by Michigan waste generators, and develop an annual report to the Legislature;
  • Advise the Governor and Legislature on federal and state policies and programs concerning nuclear waste management, transportation, and disposal issues;
  • Serve as a resource for information on federal and state low-level radioactive waste management and programs. 

The Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority was transferred into the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy by Executive Order 2019-6.

Past Reports*

*Reports from 2016 and before available upon request.

History of the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority

  • 1987: Passage of Act 204, establishing the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority within the Department of Management and Budget, and establishes a siting process to be implemented by the LLRWA.
  • 1989: The LLRWA announces three candidate areas to be studied further.
  • 1990: No candidate areas will meet statutory siting criteria.
  • 1991: Michigan's membership in Midwest Compact is revoked.
  • 1992: LLRWA is transferred to the Department of Commerce by Executive Order.
  • 1996: LLRWA is transferred to the Department of Environmental Quality by Executive Order.
  • 2009: LLRWA is transferred to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment and the LLRWA commissioner position is abolished by Executive Order.
  • 2011: LLRWA is transferred to the Department of Environmental Quality by Executive Order.
  • 2019: LLRWA is transferred to the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy by Executive Order.

Statutory authority

Act 204, PA 1987, as amended; MCL Sections 333.26201 et seq.

Contact

For general information about the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority contact us at RadioactiveMaterial@Michigan.gov

Resources