Michigan's move to actively enforce environmental protections has escalated with Attorney General Dana Nessel filing a lawsuit against Ox Paperboard for PFAS contamination in the White Pigeon River. The suit, lodged with the Ingham County Circuit Court, positions the state squarely against unauthorized and harmful discharges that endanger local waterways and ecosystems. According to the details shared by the Department of Attorney General's website, the paper company has been cited seven times for these violations since operations started in June 2020.
The Attorney General's Office has painted a picture of an enterprise seemingly at odds with key environmental statutes, failing to properly shut down wastewater lagoons and continuing to introduce hazardous substances into the environment. In a decisive stance, Nessel announced, "As Attorney General, I have prioritized protecting Michigan’s environment and holding polluters accountable." The statement, obtained by the Department of Attorney General, continues, "It is unacceptable for companies like Ox Paperboard to pollute Michigan’s precious water and put the health and safety of Michigan families at risk."
The lawsuit isn't an isolated action but part of a broader sweep against PFAS perpetrators. In efforts to ensure compliance with Michigan’s environmental laws, the lawsuit seeks closure of the offending wastewater lagoons, cessation of unauthorized discharges, and to compel financial accountability for damages and costs incurred by the state. Phil Roos, Director of the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, underscored this approach by stating, "Every resident across the State deserves clean air, safe water, and a healthy community, including being protected against toxic contaminants like PFAS", as per Department of Attorney General.
Ox Paperboard is not alone in feeling the pressure of these enforcement actions. Nessel's campaign has consistently targeted PFAS-related pollution, as seen through multiple lawsuits against PFAS manufacturers and foam producers, as well as a keystone settlement with Asahi Kasei Plastics North America. "We are committed to enforcing Michigan’s statutes prohibiting harmful PFAS discharges into waters of the State and EGLE is committed to stopping these discharges and holding this company accountable," Roos added, in a remark to reinforce the state’s resolve, documented by the Department of Attorney General.
This multifront legal thrust reflects a increasing awareness and response to the environmental and public health challenges posed by PFAS. With Michigan putting its legal muscle into cleaning up its waterways, the quest for environmental justice appears to be gaining ground. Details on AG Nessel's work on PFAS litigation are available online, promising transparency and a ready dissemination of information to the concerned public.
