LANSING – State Representative Jim Townsend (Royal Oak) has earned a 100 percent voting record on Clean Water Action’s 2011-2012 House of Representatives Midterm Scorecard. Rep. Townsend was one of only 13 House members – all Democrats – to receive top honors from Clean Water Action for their perfect voting record.
“Few things are as important to preserving the quality of life and economy of Michigan as protecting our lakes and rivers,” Townsend said. “Our Great Lakes and inland lakes and rivers create recreational opportunities few other states can rival and bring millions of visitors to our state. Boating, fishing and the beauty of our fresh waters create jobs for thousands of Michigan residents.”
Clean Water Action’s scorecard is an effort to hold elected officials accountable for their actions to keep Michigan’s water clean and to protect our other natural resources. Lawmakers were graded on the basis of their votes on key environmental and environmental health issues, including legislation that impacted clean beaches and safe drinking water, fish and wildlife habitats, the health of Michigan residents, and clean energy choices.
“I am grateful that Clean Water Action recognized me and 12 of my Democratic colleagues as ‘Environmental Heroes’ who voted to protect our state’s waters every chance we got,” Townsend said. “I wish all of my colleagues in the Legislature felt the same way. But Clean Water Action’s report showed that 58 of them – all Republican – received a failing grade when it comes to keeping Michigan’s waters clean. I urge them to recognize the vital importance of clean water to our state.”