(LANSING) - Michigan's low landfill fees are drawing trash from other states and even Canada, raising concerns among residents and lawmakers.
The state charges just 36 cents per ton to dump waste--one of the lowest rates in the country--making it an attractive destination for out-of-state garbage.
In southeast Michigan, landfills are seeing steady truck traffic, and one site is proposing a major expansion to handle more waste.
Residents say the growing volume is overwhelming and could bring environmental risks.
State leaders have pushed to raise landfill fees and send more funding back to local communities, but efforts have stalled.
Officials say any changes would need to balance environmental concerns with the potential for higher costs for residents and businesses.