Michigan House approves Enbridge pipeline replacement in Great Lakes

Legislation that would facilitate the replacement of the underwater portion of Enbridge's Line 5 is one step closer to Gov. Rick Snyder's desk.

The Michigan Republican-led House approved the bill 74-34 Tuesday. The measure could be passed by Senate later in the day.

It would require a state authority to quickly OK the Snyder administration's deal with Enbridge for the construction and operation of the utility tunnel that would house the new pipeline segment in the Straits of Mackinac.

Enbridgewould pay for the tunnel.

Supporters of the replacement say the tunnel would help protect the lakes from a potential spill.

Opponents want Line 5 shut down for up to 10 years while the tunnel and replacement segment are being built.