7/21/2026

MICHIGAN - Opponents of Enbridge’s proposed Line 5 tunnel, underneath the Straits of Mackinac, say Michigan’s decision to reissue a key permit won't end their fight against the oil-related infrastructure. Environmental groups have long warned an accident could cause an oil spill in the Straits, threatening the Great Lakes. However, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy says the project meets state regulatory requirements. In reissuing the permit last week, it concluded the project’s public and private benefits outweighed other considerations. Whitney Gravelle is president of the Bay Mills Indian Community.

                    0:12  "Bay Mills Indian Community will continue pursuing every legal avenue available to protect our treaty rights, defend the Great Lakes, and fulfill our sacred responsibility to protect the water for future generations."

Meanwhile, Enbridge says it's reviewing the new permit conditions and continues to operate Line 5 safely under federal standards. But the approval process is not over. The project still needs authorization from the U-S Army Corps of Engineers.