LANSING, Mich., June 9, 2023 — Since gaining control of the chamber in January, Speaker Joe Tate (D-Detroit) and his Democratic colleagues in the House have made preserving Michigan’s environment, natural resources and public health a central priority of their budget and policy agenda. The lawmakers proposed significant investments in their fiscal 2023-24 budget and passed legislation to help protect the environment, support environmental justice efforts and make a tangible impact on the people of Michigan.
“House Democrats are advancing environmental policies because we understand the importance of our Great Lakes heritage and the necessity of protecting our natural resources for Michigan’s today and tomorrow,” Tate said. “With these goals at the forefront, we included significant investments in our budget proposal for contaminated site cleanup and grants to grow renewable energy in our communities. As we move forward with the budget and continue smart policymaking, clean energy and environmental conservation programs will continue to be front-of-mind, in order to keep Michigan an economic leader and protect the health of our people.”
Recently, red flag warnings have been issued due to warm temperatures and dry conditions. Additionally, wildfires in northern areas in Michigan and in Canada have caused dangerous air quality in several parts of the state.
“I know folks in Detroit and many other residents across Michigan communities have been concerned about, and negatively impacted by, the unhealthy air conditions from the wildfires,” Tate continued. “The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy has advised that people stay inside when air quality is poor; children and those with lung or heart conditions should take special care to wear a mask when outdoors. I’d like to express my gratitude to the firefighters who have been working to get the fires under control and help keep Michiganders safe every day. As we move into the hot summer months, I would like to remind residents to follow safety guidelines to avoid any risk of fires while they enjoy our beautiful state and communities. Stay safe, Michigan.”
Background:
- House Budget Recommendation Includes:
- $50 million for contaminated site cleanup.
- $40 million for Renewable Ready Communities grants to establish wind, solar and energy storage facilities.
- $20 million for a dam risk reduction program to expand access to waterways by removing dams that are not integral to invasive species mitigation, power generation or public safety.