Peters Statement on Recent Developments in Flint Water Crisis

Washington, D.C. -U.S. Senator Gary Peters issued the following statements regarding recent developments related to the water crisis in Flint.

Today, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it had issued a Safe Drinking Water Act emergency order for Flint. In its announcement, the EPA also outlined additional actions for the State of Michigan to comply with federal standards, as well as internal actions the agency is taking to improve its future response to similar situations.

“For months, the State of Michigan and MDEQ failed to take the necessary steps to ensure Flint residents had clean, safe drinking water. I am pleased that the EPA has announced it is stepping in and taking immediate action to protect the public health and increase transparency,” said Senator Peters. “I also applaud Administrator McCarthy’s decision to request an Inspector General evaluation, so we can better understand how EPA could have helped prevent Flint’s water crisis and what they can do to keep this situation from ever happening again. I believe Administrator Hedman’s resignation is an appropriate step in order to allow the community of Flint and its residents to get the help they need and move forward.”

Additionally, in his address to the U.S. Conference of Mayors, President Obama said he would be releasing $80 million in funding for the State of Michigan that was approved by Congress last December.  Peters voted for the bipartisan budget agreement that included the money.

“I am grateful that the President has been personally engaged in helping Flint recover from this catastrophe and supportive of our request for federal assistance,” said Peters. “I am pleased that the Administration is quickly releasing funds approved by Congress to help the State of Michigan improve its water infrastructure.”

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