Question

Under the Michigan Environmental Protection Act, which of the following persons would NOT be responsible for cleanup of a contaminated parcel?

1.) The current property owner of a contaminated site
2.) The estate or trust of an owner of a contaminated site
3.) An occupant who had an environmental assessment done within 45 days of purchase
4.) The operator of a facility at a site on which there is a problem

Answer 1

An occupant who had an environmental assessment done within 45 days of purchase would not be responsible for cleanup under the Michigan Environmental Protection Act, provided certain conditions are met. Other parties such as property owners and operators are generally liable.

Step-by-step explanation:

Under the Michigan Environmental Protection Act, the person who would NOT be responsible for cleanup of a contaminated parcel is an occupant who had an environmental assessment done within 45 days of purchase. However, this is true only if the environmental assessment does not reveal any problems that would make them liable, or if they qualify under certain exemptions provided by the Act. The current property owner, the estate or trust of an owner, and the operator of a facility are generally held liable under Michigan law for the cleanup of environmental contamination on their property or the property they operate. These stakeholders are often seen as having the responsibility due to their ownership, control, or involvement with the site that is contaminated. Government programs may assist in cleanup or offer incentives for cleanup efforts, but liability for hazardous waste typically falls on these parties.