LANSING — House Republicans passed Senate Bill 1244 earlier this week, tying the hands of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality when it comes to protecting the people of Michigan from toxic contamination in their water. In response, state Rep. Kristy Pagan (D-Canton) issued the following statement:

“Access to clean, safe drinking water is a top priority for all Michigan residents. Unfortunately, this is not a reality for many communities throughout our state. Instead of putting in place protections and clean-up efforts for chemicals, pollutants and toxins, the Republican majority fast-tracked a bill during lame duck to limit the ability of the DEQ to immediately address environmental catastrophes. As elected officials, we are bestowed with the public trust and this bill is a direct assault on environmental safeguards, especially when it comes to our drinking water.”

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