ST. IGNACE, Mich. (AP) — A member of Congress from Michigan wants a federal investigation that could lead to shutdown of twin oil pipelines beneath the waterway where Lakes Huron and Michigan converge.
Legislation introduced by Republican Rep. Candice Miller would require an 18-month study by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration to determine whether Enbridge Co.’s Line 5 poses a significant risk to the Great Lakes. If so, it would be deactivated.
Line 5 transports 23 million gallons of crude oil and liquid natural gas daily through the Upper Peninsula and ends in Sarnia, Ontario. It divides into two smaller lines beneath the scenic Straits of Mackinac.
Miller says a rupture of the 63-year-old pipeline would have a “catastrophic impact” on the lakes.
Enbridge says Line 5 is operated safely and monitored constantly.
