LANSING, Mich., April 30, 2026 — This week, state Rep. Joey Andrews (D-St. Joseph) introduced House Resolution 297 urging the Michigan Congressional delegation to support the passage of H.R. 7459. The bill would create a coastal storm risk management trust fund to support coastal storm risk management projects nationwide, including beach nourishment, dune restoration, and other shoreline protection measures. Michigan’s shorelines and beaches are a critical resource, contributing billions of dollars annually to the state’s economy.
After the introduction of the resolution, Andrews released the following statement:
“Michigan is uniquely dependent on the health and resilience of its Great Lakes coastlines. With more than 3,000 miles of shoreline, our coastal communities face growing risks from erosion, storm surge, fluctuating water levels, and extreme weather events. These challenges threaten public infrastructure, private property, tourism, drinking water systems, and critical natural resources.
“Stable, long-term federal investment through this trust fund would help Michigan communities better plan for, respond to, and recover from coastal storm impacts, while reducing future costs associated with emergency response and infrastructure damage.
“This resolution sends a clear message urging our federal partners to prioritize coastal resilience and recognize the importance of the Great Lakes as economic engines and environmental treasures. Investments in coastal resiliency protect jobs, support tourism and recreation, safeguard transportation corridors, and strengthen local tax bases, benefits felt well beyond shoreline communities.”
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