Peters Statement on Reported Potential Closure of EPA Region 5 Office

WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today released the following statement on reports that President Trump’s Administration may close the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 Office in Chicago that serves Michigan and other Great Lakes states:

“While these reports have yet to be confirmed, I am gravely concerned with any effort to potentially close the Environmental Protection Agency’s regional office, which would be a disaster for the Great Lakes. Not only are the Great Lakes a source of clean drinking water for over 40 million people, but they play a critical role in our economy – from shipping and commerce to tourism and travel. Important Environmental Protection Agency programs help restore portions of the Great Lakes watershed and protect against threats like toxic algal blooms and invasive species.

“The Environmental Protection Agency also provides important technical assistance as the City of Flint recovers from the water crisis and considers a transition to a new water source. Flint families still cannot drink tap water without a filter, and as more communities deal with the effects of aging infrastructure on the health of their water systems, we should be strengthening - not cutting - these vital federal tools.

“I am committed to fighting any proposal to close the Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 office, which would threaten public health in communities across Michigan and endanger the Great Lakes for future generations.”