Michigan House Approves Anchor Ban in Straits of Mackinac

After a tugboat anchor allegedly severed electrical lines at the bottom of the Straits of Mackinac, the Michigan Legislature is advancing a bill to prohibit anchor use in the area. | Photo: American Transmission Company via U.S. Coast Guard

Updated: October 04, 2018 12:10 AM

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Legislation advancing in Michigan would prohibit vessels from dropping anchor in the Straits of Mackinac - where oil, electric and other underwater cables rest.

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The bills approved overwhelmingly Wednesday by the state House (House Bills 6187, 6199-6201, 6398) next go to the Senate.

They would prohibit ships from using anchors in the Straits of Mackinac, the waterway where Lakes Huron and Michigan converge. Exceptions would be made for emergencies or with state permission.

Gov. Rick Snyder in May approved an emergency rule barring anchors in the waterway, after a tugboat anchor struck oil and electrical lines and caused an insulation spill. The rule is in place for six months and can be extended another six months.

The legislation also would require additional no-anchor signs in the area.

Updated: October 04, 2018 12:10 AM
Created: October 03, 2018 04:09 PM