Michigan announces action plan for lead levels in Flint's drinking water

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder announced a comprehensive action plan to address drinking water quality issues in Flint on Oct. 2.

The plan addresses issues that include excess lead in some residents' tap water due to older plumbing.   

“We are focused on helping ensure safe, clean, accessible drinking water and addressing and mitigating concerns and protecting public health,” Snyder said. “Today’s action plan builds upon ongoing work with local, state and federal agencies and our partnership with city and community leaders. Together, we are working to ensure that all Flint residents have accurate information and know that help is available to address potential problems.”

The plan was developed with federal, state and city leaders and includes measures that include immediate testing of the public school drinking water and providing free water and free water filters to the city’s residents. These measures are critical, as the state has seen an increase in childhood blood lead levels in the community, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).

“While we cannot conclusively say that the water source change is the sole cause of the increase, this analysis supports our efforts as we take active steps to reduce all potential lead exposures in Flint,” MDHHS Director Nick Lyon said. “As part of this, we are working closely with our public and private partners to provide Flint residents on MDHHS assistance programs with free water filters and inform families about the steps they can take to reduce all lead exposures in their home.”