Kapenga Opposes PA 233: Defending Local Control Against State Overreach

Patrick Kapenga is speaking out against Michigan’s PA 233, a law that shifts decision-making power away from local communities and into the hands of state regulators. Under PA 233, if a township or county denies approval for a large-scale energy project, developers can bypass local officials and take their proposal directly to the Michigan Public Service Commission — effectively overruling the people who live in those communities. “That’s not local control,” Kapenga said. “That’s Lansing stepping in and overriding the voices of residents, farmers, and local leaders.” For communities across District 89 — including Coopersville, Wright Township, and Polkton Township — the issue is personal. These are places where residents expect to have a say in what gets built in their backyards, especially when it impacts land use, agriculture, and long-term community planning. “Local governments exist for a reason,” Kapenga said. “They are closest to the people and best equipped to make decisions that reflect the character and needs of their communities.” Kapenga believes PA 233 sets a dangerous precedent by weakening local authority and expanding top-down decision-making from Lansing. “Once you take decision-making power away from local communities, it’s very hard to get it back,” he said. “We need to protect that voice now.” As State Representative, Kapenga says he will work to restore that balance by standing firmly with residents and local officials. He is committed to: • Protecting local decision-making authority • Standing with residents and township leaders • Pushing back on top-down mandates like PA 233 “Lansing shouldn’t get the final say over our communities,” Kapenga said. “The people who live here should.” Kapenga’s campaign continues to focus on restoring accountability, defending property rights, and ensuring District 89 has a strong voice at every level of government.