LANSING – Governor Jennifer Granholm this week signed bills into law that are aimed at improving the environment by controlling phosphorus pollution in the Great Lakes. PA 426 (SB 362 ) and PA 427 (SB 152 ) would mainly apply to household cleaners, limiting the level of phosphorus to .5 percent by July 1, 2010 from current levels as high as 8.7 percent.

Household detergents are a significant source of phosphorus contamination, and studies have shown that discharges of excessive phosphorus contribute to increased algae blooms, decreased fish populations and an overall decline in water quality, said a Tuesday release.

“Today we are taking another step forward in protecting our Great Lakes,” the governor said. “By limiting our impact on Michigan’s waters, we are ensuring that they will stay clean and safe for future generations of Michigan families.”

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