Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm recently announced that the state's DEQ would develop a rule requiring utilities to achieve 90-percent reductions in mercury emissions by 2015. Michigan electric companies must slash mercury emissions from coal-burning power plants within nine years as a step toward cleansing the state's waters of a poison that has prompted fish consumption warnings.

“Mercury poses a real and serious health concern for the people of Michigan,” said Granholm. “We are ensuring that future generations can enjoy clean air and safe water.”

Michigan joined over a dozen other states who are suing the federal government, claiming federal mercury emissions standards are too weak. The governors of Georgia, Illinois, Minnesota and Pennsylvania have previously announced plans to seek 90-percent reductions.

Industry spokesmen reacted cautiously. Dan Bishop of Consumers Energy said the federal rules were sufficient but the company would cooperate with the DEQ as it develops a state alternative.

“It's important to balance energy policy, environmental protection and economic issues as we go forward,” said Bishop.

“This modest investment now will pay big dividends for future generations, whose mothers will no longer need to consult complicated health advisory tables to see if it's OK to eat a walleye fillet,” said Lana Pollack, president of the Michigan Environmental Council.