Advocacy News – July 15, 2026
What’s happening: The Great Lakes Tunnel project cleared another major regulatory milestone this week as the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) reissued a key permit for the proposed Line 5 tunnel beneath the Straits of Mackinac. The decision keeps the project moving through the remaining approval process.
Why it matters: The Great Lakes Tunnel has spent years navigating regulatory reviews, legal challenges and political opposition despite broad support from employers, communities and labor, energy, business and trade organizations. Supporters view the project as the safest long-term solution to better protect the Great Lakes while ensuring access to safe, reliable and affordable energy.
What we’re saying: The Michigan Chamber applauded the decision, calling the Great Lakes Tunnel “a commonsense solution that strengthens protection of the Great Lakes while reinforcing the critical energy infrastructure our state and region depend on.”
What’s next: While the state permit represents a significant milestone, additional federal approvals remain before construction can begin. Opponents have already indicated they intend to continue challenging the project.
Go deeper: Read the Michigan Chamber’s full statement on the permit approval.