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Closing Line 5 Would Send Michigan Energy Prices Even Higher

March 3, 2022

Today, the Consumer Energy Alliance released a new report showing how closing Line 5 would cause energy prices for Michigan residents to rise even higher. The report found that a closure of the line would raise the total cost of diesel and gasoline by more than $2 billion a year in Michigan.

"Line 5 is crucial for providing Michigan residents with reliable and affordable energy. Federal and state authorities should end any efforts to close the line and they should expedite all reviews and permitting for the tunnel, so it can be built as soon as possible. Building the Line 5 tunnel will improve safety and create good-paying jobs. I am proud to stand with Michigan families, workers, and businesses to support the Line 5 tunnel," said Congressman John Moolenaar.

In a statement earlier today, the Consumer Energy Alliance detailed how refineries in the Midwest provide energy for Michigan residents and rely on Line 5 for the delivery of oil and natural gas. The press release included statements of support for Line 5 from the United Steelworkers, the Small Business Association of Michigan, and the Michigan Chemistry Council. Their statements are excerpted below.

United Steelworkers District 1 Director Donnie Blatt said, "The USW is committed to advocating for a safe, clean environment. But we believe that does not have to come at the cost of the jobs of our members, and our communities. Families and businesses across the Midwest should not be asked to bear the brunt of what could amount to a $29.2 billion increase in gasoline and diesel costs over the next five years when a viable solution exists. The Great Lakes Tunnel Project will safeguard jobs, the economy, and the environment, at no cost to the taxpayer. We urge our members, communities, and legislators to support the construction of the tunnel, and the continued operation of the existing Line 5 pipeline until it has been completed."

Commenting on how shutting down Line 5 will unnecessarily burden Michigan's small business and economy Small Business Association of Michigan President and CEO Brian Calley said, "As small businesses work to overcome inflation and staffing challenges, the last thing they need is to be burdened with additional costs that a Line 5 shutdown would bring. This report once again shows how reckless the politically motivated nonsense around shutting down Line 5 would be for our economy, our small businesses and all of our residents."

John Dulmes, Executive Director of the Michigan Chemistry Council added, "Line 5 is a critical part of our regional energy infrastructure, and it remains the safest and most effective way of transporting energy products essential to our economy. Given the incredibly fragile state of our supply chains and workforce, there are just no feasible alternatives, and so we encourage policymakers to work to make a safe pipeline even safer."

Issues:Energy