The potential consequences of this precedent extend far beyond the Line 5 project. If Michigan fails to require complete permitting, it opens the door for other industries to argue for similar exemption.
Guest Commentary
At Bridge, we believe in listening to voices from all over our state. Got something to say? Contact us and join the conversation (details below)
How to submit a Guest Commentary
What to know:
Bridge welcomes a diversity of voices and perspectives from readers on issues important to Michigan. Guest commentaries reflect the views of the author(s), and are independent of the nonpartisan, fact-driven reporting of Bridge’s newsroom staff.
Commentaries must be the author’s original work and preferably will not have appeared first in other publications. Bridge reserves the right to decline submissions at our discretion.
We reserve the right to edit commentary for grammar, clarity, brevity or to address legal or factual concerns. We may offer editing suggestions, but in the service of making your work more accessible, not to alter your views.
We do not pay for guest commentary.
Here are some guidelines:
- Columns are usually 500-700 words
- They generally focus on a Michigan topic or policy and should avoid ad hominem attacks
- The more direct, distinct and/or intimate your perspective, the more effective your column will be
- The best columns do more than identify problems; they also offer solutions and facts to back them up
- Please include a one- or two-sentence bio, including the writer’s organization or relevant background.
- Authors must show their work, by backing up facts with links to reports or studies
- Bridge does not publish self-promotional columns or candidate endorsements
- Send a good quality, large headshot of the writer(s) as an attachment
- We also ask that, in return for publishing a guest commentary, the author(s) and their organizations generously promote the link to the published column through your Facebook, Twitter and other social or professional networks.
That’s about it. Keep the writing clear, conversational and free of jargon, and sell our smart and receptive readership on the argument you are trying to make.
Who to contact:
Email your submission or idea to guestcommentary@bridgemi.com. Please briefly describe who you are and what you would like to say and put the words “guest commentary” in the email subject line.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | Responsible roads plan will repair local infrastructure
People have been clear. They want good roads. They have long called for elected officials to come up with plans that accomplish this, and the money is there to do it.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | A time for courage: U-M and DEI
When a schoolyard bully demands your lunch money, if you give it to him, he will probably ask again tomorrow.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | The case to save the UP
Under new rules, the natural-gas powered units that reduced our emissions by over 70% will need to be deactivated decades early, but their massive debt will remain.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | Reckless cuts to Medicaid would threaten Michigan’s health, economy
Reforms are needed, but they must be done thoughtfully and responsibly — not through reckless cuts that will harm our economy and leave people without lifesaving care.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | An empty chair, a missing voice: Legislative limbo in Lansing
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has a clear responsibility to set a special election to fill the critical 35th Senate District seat, yet her silence on the matter has been deafening.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | Failing grade: Michigan lawmakers are shortchanging online students
We should be doing everything we can to see that this group of students have the support and resources they need to succeed. Instead, the state is making it harder for them to access a learning environment that works.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | Attacks threaten Canada-US teamwork on Great Lakes
The Lakes face convulsive pressures from climate change, microplastics, PFAs and other significant threats. The best way to handle those issues is through a strong and continuing partnership with Canada and Canadians.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | It’s time for lawmakers to put working people first, not last
House and Senate Democrats have done their job, now it’s time for Speaker Hall and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to do theirs. If they don’t, working families, public servants, and the very people who keep our communities strong will pay the price.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | The case for thoughtful cellphone restrictions in schools
It is important to acknowledge legitimate concerns from parents who view cellphones as essential communication tools and educators who see legitimate educational uses for mobile devices. However, these valid concerns can be addressed through thoughtful policy design rather than abandoning restrictions altogether.