FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: Rachel Perkins, Byrum & Fisk Advocacy Communications, 517-333-1606
Gov. Whitmer’s budget makes critical environmental investments
LANSING – The Sierra Club - Michigan Chapter applauds Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s budget – which includes more than $140 million to improve Michigan’s water, air and land – demonstrates the importance and urgency tackling these issues is to the Great Lakes state.
“Gov. Whitmer recognizes it will take serious investment to address the legacy of toxic contamination facing our state,” said Tim Minotas, Legislative and Political Coordinator Sierra Club Michigan Chapter. “The governor’s budget provides positive steps to ensuring we are cleaning up our environment, addressing the climate crisis and making important investments in clean energy.”
Addressing climate change is a priority in the administration’s budget, as Whitmer included $40 million for local infrastructure grants that will help plan for and prevent the negative impacts of Michigan’s changing climate conditions like high water levels. In addition, the budget provides $10 million for energy efficiency and clean energy projects.
Remediating pollution of the environment was also outlined in the budget with $20 million set aside for rapid response to environmental contamination, as well as $10 million for the Lead Poisoning Prevention Fund.
The budget prioritizes the health of our students by spending $40 million on air and water filter replacements, lead and asbestos abatement, and more.
While the Sierra Club is encouraged by the Governor’s leadership, the state must further prioritize and plan for long term investment that is required to truly tackle the environmental and climate issues our state is facing. They look forward to working with the Governor to assure these budget priorities are supported by the legislature and to strengthen them as they move ahead.
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