State Rep. Nancy Jenkins-Arno (R-Rollin Township) Wednesday voted in support of a bill package that would return zoning and permitting authority for large-scale solar and wind energy projects to local communities.

“These bills are about respecting local voices,” said Rep. Jenkins-Arno. “Decisions about where solar and wind farms should go need to be made by the people who live in those communities, not by bureaucrats in Lansing.”

House Bills 4027 and 4028, which passed the Michigan House on Wednesday, would reverse provisions in the state’s 2023 clean energy laws that granted the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) the power to override local zoning decisions on renewable energy developments.

“Renewable energy is an important part of Michigan’s future, but that future must be built with local input and community support,” said Jenkins-Arno. “We can protect our environment and preserve local rights at the same time.”