On Wednesday September 20, a four bill package (HBs 5673-5676) was reported from the House Natural Resources, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Committee. All four bills passed unanimously by a vote of 9-0. These bills will provide more flexibility and expanded options for those municipalities that need to fix its sewers and water pipes. This legislation will create a grant program designed to incentivize up front activities that will improve efficiency and will reduce costs. The legislation will also create a State-operated loan program which will eliminate the red tape that was found with the federal loan program and will still maintain a separate State Revolving Fund (SRF). The League supports this legislation as these reforms will allow cities throughout Michigan to proceed with important infrastructure updates. These bills may get a floor vote next week.

Jason Mancini handles transportation and environmental issues for the League and can be reached at 517.908.0303 or by email at jmancini@mml.org