LANSING, Mich. — State Sen. Michele Hoitenga on Monday urged Senate leaders to quickly pass disaster relief legislation that has remained stalled in committee following President Donald Trump’s announcement last week approving federal emergency aid for the Northern Michigan communities devastated by a severe ice storm earlier this year.
“While the historic ice storm that left 12 counties in a state of emergency has passed, our region continues to grapple with the costly aftermath,” said Hoitenga, R-Manton. “I am thankful to President Trump for his commitment to providing federal assistance to the people of Northern Michigan. Now, it is crucial for the Senate to pass state funding that will enable our most vulnerable residents to access critical resources not covered by federal aid. Our communities need this support to rebuild and recover effectively.
“The Senate majority leader must take swift and decisive action by bringing House Bill 4328 to the floor for a vote without delay.”
The Michigan House of Representatives on May 7 passed HB 4328 by an overwhelming 107-1 bipartisan vote. The $100 million disaster relief package, introduced by Rep. Parker Fairbairn, R-Harbor Springs, is intended to match and encourage more federal dollars. The legislation has since remained in the Senate Committee on Appropriations without action.
Last week’s federal disaster declaration grants access to Federal Emergency Management Agency funding for Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Kalkaska, Mackinac, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego and Presque Isle counties.
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