State Rep. Ben Frederick today led the Michigan House in approving financial relief to help Shiawassee County law enforcement agencies pay needed expenses following mid-March tornadoes that stressed public safety budgets.

The House approved $163,000 in documented expenses to help first responders bridge the gap for extra costs. The money will be distributed to 13 agencies in the county.

Frederick and state Sen. Tom Barrett began work to secure the funding in the state budget following Gov. Whitmer’s unexpected decision to not declare a state of emergency. Such a declaration would have provided immediate access to emergency relief dollars of an equivalent amount.

“Our community rallied together and stayed strong in the face of adversity,” said Frederick, of Owosso, after the House approved the funding. “Our first responders and law enforcement agencies led the charge, working around the clock while partnering to keep our families safe.”

Two tornadoes touched down in Shiawassee County on March 14 – damaging 94 homes, four businesses, 16 barns and several vehicles – with properties in Vernon, Venice and Shiawassee townships particularly hard hit.

“Everyone came together and did what had to be done – for our community, and for each other,” Frederick said. “That’s part of what makes Shiawassee County so special.

“I appreciate both sides of the aisle now coming together to ensure our Shiawassee County first responders are supported.”

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