State Rep. Gary Howell, of North Branch, last week introduced a plan to require more rigorous testing of the drinking water at veterans homes and veterans care facilities across the state. The plan is part of a larger reform package addressing the safety and security of Michigan’s drinking water supply.

“This proposal is an important part of an overall bipartisan effort to protect the drinking water of Michiganders in every corner of the state,” said Howell. “My proposal specifically ensures that we protect the drinking waters of those who served and protected us from dangerous lead contamination.”

The bill put forward by Howell requires veteran’s facilities in Michigan to periodically test drinking water for lead.

In addition to Howell’s plan, House Bill 4742, the package includes House Bills 4743-4750. The multiple-bill reform proposals, all co-sponsored by Representative Howell, looks at water quality across the board: from improving municipal safeguards and oversight to tightening up environmental protection and conservation.

Ensuring safe drinking water has become a top concern across the state due to the condition of our state’s water infrastructure systems and the detection of PFAS contamination at more than 1,100 sites, Howell said.

All the bills have been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources for further consideration. Howell serves as Chairman of the committee.