Under a Snyder-era reform following the Flint water crisis, Michigan utilities must begin switching out lead service lines this month, part of a 20-year project. But some already are seeking extensions and some cash-strapped cities are reluctant to have vulnerable ratepayers shoulder the burden.
Flint water crisis
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Q&A: How to protect against lead as Michigan waits for new water pipes
Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, the pediatrician who helped uncover the Flint water crisis, said Michigan’s lead service line replacement program is a major stride toward reducing lead exposure. But Michigan residents need not wait to start protecting themselves from lead-tainted water.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Years after Flint water crisis, lead lingers in school buildings across the nation
The federal appropriations bill for the 2021 fiscal year, signed into law this week, included $26.5 million to test for lead in schools and child care centers, a nod to the legacy of the Flint water crisis, which lifted the issue of lead in drinking water into the national spotlight.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Flint residents unimpressed by Snyder charges linked to lead poisoning
Years after a cost-cutting move resulted in lead-poisoned drinking water in Flint, residents said they are furious that the governor who placed their city under emergency control won’t face more serious charges.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Snyder, top aides charged in Flint water crisis. Is that justice?
Seven years after a fateful water switch, the former governor faces two misdemeanors, while others including former health director Nick Lyon were charged with several felonies.
Posted inMichigan Government
Rick Snyder, top aides expected to face charges in Flint water crisis
Prosecutors are expected to bring new charges Thursday against a host of public officials in the poisoning of Flint. Residents welcome the charges, but attorneys call the case a ‘debacle’ and ‘trial by ambush.’
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Michigan politicians ran on water problems. Activists want money for fixes.
Water advocates say they plan to push state and federal lawmakers for more funding to address PFAS, lead line replacement, and other water issues. But the COVID-19 crisis could make budget dollars scarce.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
City of Flint, McLaren join water crisis settlement, bringing pot to $641M
Three new defendants have signed onto a preliminary settlement tied to the Flint water crisis and a judge is reviewing the agreement, bringing residents one step closer to financial compensation for the manmade catastrophe.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | New partnerships are needed to solve Michigan’s water-related issues
Gov. Whitmer has proposed a $500 million fund to modernize Michigan’s drinking water infrastructure and sewer systems, but that won’t cover all the necessary work. We need to restore the partnership among local, state and federal agencies that work on water infrastructure issues.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Gov. Whitmer unveils $500M spending strategy for Michigan water
Experts said the strategy, which largely draws upon existing funding sources to tackle PFAS contamination, lead pipe replacement, sewer overflows and other water challenges, is a good step but fixing Michigan’s water infrastructure will require more investment.