DETROIT (March 22, 2021) — Sen. Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit) today released the following statement on water affordability and extending the moratorium on shutoffs for World Water Day, a United Nations annual celebration of what water means to people, its true value, and how we can better protect this vital resource:
“I’m proud of how the legislature, governor, and the City of Detroit have addressed water shutoffs during the COVID-19 pandemic so far, and it is critical that we continue the shutoff moratorium as we have seen a rise in cases again this month. My bill provided so many Michiganders with lifesaving access to safe, affordable water during the height of the pandemic, but we must expand protections for this critical resource for the immediate and foreseeable future. We know that many Michigan families are continuing to struggle financially, and the pandemic is not over yet.
“Water is a human right, and Michiganders deserve affordable access to this critical resource for the sake of public health. The 101st Legislature must make long-term water solutions, including affordability, shutoff protections, and rate transparency, a priority issue for all Michiganders. I will continue to work with my colleagues, water warriors, and all stakeholders on these issues until we get it done.”
In December of 2020, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed Public 252 of 2020 to provide shutoff protections and water reconnections for Michigan residents, with limited exceptions. The temporary legislation is set to expire on March 31, 2021.
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