Vagnozzi Fights to Save the Great Lakes Water
Democrats, conservation voters rally for Water Legacy Act

"The time for foot-dragging is over," said Rep. Vagnozzi. "The time for action is now. The health and vitality of our Great Lakes is integral to the success of our citizens, businesses and economy. The Water Legacy Act is long overdue."

Michigan House Democrats and the Michigan League of Conservation Voters launched a series of Town Hall meetings today meant to mobilize public support and press the Michigan Legislature into action regarding the Water Legacy Act, which protects the Great Lakes against thirsty states who try to divert the water.

"Our Great Lakes should not be bottled up, sold, or shipped off to other states," said House Democratic Leader Dianne Byrum (D-Onondaga).

The Town Hall meetings will host experts from the DEQ and conservation organizations who will discuss the need for legislative action to prevent water diversion and the economic consequences should the Legislature fail to act.

Earlier this year, Governor Jennifer M. Granholm called on state lawmakers to adopt a comprehensive water protection statute that will protect, preserve and manage Michigan’s water resources. While House and Senate Democrats heeded Gov. Granholm’s call and presented to her pledges they had signed from the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, the Republican majority in the Michigan Legislature has unfortunately chosen to drag its feet. In fact, not one single hearing has been held on the Water Legacy Act (House Bill 5634 and Senate Bill 1087) in the past seven months.

"I am happy to join in this effort to rally public support for the Water Legacy Act," said
Jeff Irwin, director of the Michigan League of Conservation Voters. "We are focused on holding lawmakers accountable, and we’re urging them to take action on this vital piece of legislation. Our lawmakers know that 80% of Michigan residents support immediate action on the Water Legacy Act. Now, the public needs to know which legislators are acting to protect the Great Lakes and which legislators are ignoring the calls from the citizens of Michigan."

Although some in the Legislature believe the protection of the water resources is an issue
that requires more study, the fact is that scientists sounded the alarm two decades ago that the Great Lakes needed protection from water diversion threats.

With the population exploding in the notoriously arid Southwestern states, Michigan’s resources including one-fifth of the world’s supply of fresh water are more in demand than ever.

"Michigan legislators have a responsibility to do everything in their power to protect the Great Lakes," said State Representative Chris Kolb (D-Ann Arbor), who sponsored HB 5634. "The alarm was sounded 20 years ago that our water is in peril. Every minute of delay puts our economy and the health and viability of our Great Lakes in peril. Let these town halls serve as a wake up call to action."