This is not something to be proud of; it is a significant concern and jeopardizes the health of our communities.

We can agree: Michigan’s environmental legacy and the health of our communities deserve the strongest possible protections. Instead, our backyards are quite literally the nation’s dumping grounds for hazardous waste and more. For too long, our residents have had to bear the consequences. The time to stand up and say “enough is enough” is right now — not after all of Michigan’s rivers, fields, and neighborhoods are too toxic for us to enjoy.

That’s why, I’ve introduced legislation (Senate Bills 246 and 247) to modernize Michigan’s hazardous waste management system and strengthen environmental protections for my district and communities across the state.

It’s critical we act in this moment to guarantee future generations can live in places like Romulus and Van Buren Township without fearing the health repercussions.