LANSING, Mich. (March 24, 2022) — Sen. Erika Geiss (D-Taylor) today issued the following statement after the Senate passed a $4.8 billion bipartisan supplemental budget bill package that invests in much-needed water infrastructure — including the installation of highway water pumps and replacing lead water lines — rental assistance, and affordable housing:
“The investments made today will directly impact the quality of life, public health, and safety of all Michiganders.
“As we learned from last summer’s historic flooding, along with other major weather events in Michigan, the time is now to invest in water infrastructure to ensure that we aren’t putting drivers at risk when it rains. In addition, Michiganders should not have to worry that the water coming from their faucets could be contaminated, which is why I am so pleased to see additional investments in lead water line replacements being made.
“Affordable housing is a major concern for so many people, and no one should feel like they don’t have any options when it comes to having a place to live. It’s critical that we invest in the development of affordable housing and rental and mortgage assistance. When residents feel safe and stable in their homes, they are more likely to engage in their local economy and community, which ultimately sets Michigan up for continued future success. Additionally, investments in residential clean energy are also exciting to see, as they will keep us on track to becoming a more sustainable and energy-efficient state.”
Investments in clean water infrastructure, rental assistance, and residential clean energy include:
- More than $1 billion in water, for both infrastructure and clean water initiatives.
- $712 million for a clean water grant and loan program, including assistance to protect public health and to fix failing septic systems.
- $500 million for rent and mortgage assistance.
- $322 million for emergency rental assistance to support low-income renters who have experienced significant financial hardship from the COVID pandemic.
- $100 million to help develop duplexes, townhouses, and other like housing options.
- $50 million in federal funding to incentivize energy efficiency and health improvements for properties and to provide energy assistance.
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