LANSING, Mich. (Feb. 11, 2021) — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s proposed state budget includes critically needed investments in clean water infrastructure and the clean-up of PFAS, known as “forever chemicals.” The National Wildlife Federation urged the Michigan Legislature to adopt these recommendations to help protect people and wildlife alike.

“The National Wildlife Federation supports the strong water, energy and environmental justice funding initiatives within Gov. Whitmer’s FY 2022 Executive Budget.  In particular, the focus on water and energy infrastructure that is targeted toward low-income communities is a necessary and just investment,” said Mike Shriberg, Great Lakes Regional Executive Director for the National Wildlife Federation. “The funds for cleaning up PFAS, the forever chemicals, and providing water filters at schools are needed to help keep all Michiganders safe from toxic chemicals. We urge the Michigan Legislature to follow the Governor’s guidance on these critical issues.”

Gov. Whitmer’s recommendations include $290 million in water infrastructure grants under the Michigan Clean Water Plan, $55 million for the Filters First Program to provide clean drinking water in schools, and $20 million for contaminated site cleanup.

Gov. Whitmer’s full budget recommendations can be found at: ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­https://www.michigan.gov/budget.