The state of Michigan will invest $20 million dollars in Benton Harbor to replace all lead service pipes in five years. The money is part of a $200 million proposed expansion of the MI Clean Water Plan to remove lead service lines across the state. Governor Whitmer called on lawmakers to use federal funds from the American Rescue Plan to improve access to safe drinking water. The state will also ensure that all families in Benton Harbor have access to free installation of in-home drinking water filters and lead awareness training during the accelerated water infrastructure upgrade work. Benton Harbor recently reported a lead exceedance under Michigan’s strict Lead and Copper Rule and stands as a clear example of decades of disinvestment in water infrastructure and the need for further investment across the state to keep Michigan families safe.
