Michigan – In recent years, a surge in prices, inflation, and rents has led to widespread financial difficulties for millions across the country. In Michigan, a substantial number of residents struggle to cover their monthly expenses. Among the most pressing challenges for this demographic is the timely payment of their utility bills.
To address this issue, a coalition of Democratic lawmakers in Michigan has proposed measures aimed at assisting those who are having trouble, particularly with their water bills. Nonetheless, this proposal has encountered swift resistance from some officials. The contention arises from the requirement for every household in the state to contribute additional funds, which would then be redistributed to support those facing financial hardships.
About the proposal
A group of officials from Southeast Michigan is backing a new law to help people keep their water on. In Michigan, water can get so expensive that some people may lose access to it. Senator Stephanie Chang has put forward a bill aimed at stopping water shutoffs by introducing the Michigan Water Affordability Program and several other lawmakers already showed their open support.
“The legislation will lower water bills for hundreds of thousands of Michiganders and actually help municipalities and residents through gap payments, paying down arrearages, and through plumbing repairs,” said Chang. “People support this effort.”
All Michigan households to pay a $2 fixed charge to support the proposed program
Under Chang’s proposal, there would be a $2 charge added to everyone’s water bill. This money would go towards making sure people with less money can afford their water based on their income. It also aims to stop water companies from turning off people’s water if they can’t pay and would offer up to $2,500 for each household to fix plumbing issues.
Mayor Mike Duggan is all for this plan because he believes the current help is only a short-term fix, whereas Chang’s law would be a lasting solution.
“What happens when that funding runs out,” said Duggan. “And what this legislation says is let’s do this fairly. How about if everybody pays a little bit.”
Senator Stephanie Chang faces opposition
On the other hand, Candice Miller, who oversees public works in Macomb County, doesn’t agree with the proposed changes.
“Macomb County already believes in water affordability which is why we already have a water affordability program. So, anybody in Macomb County that needs help with their water bill, it’s already covered because we already pay into it,” said Miller.
“We cover everybody in Macomb County. “We have enough money that we actually send the balance to the City of Detroit every year, so this would be a duplicative fee and a huge increase for our residents,” Miller added.
The Michigan Water Affordability Program plans to clear up to $3,000 of overdue water bills for people who stay in the program for two years.
Although Senator Chang faces challenges in getting this proposal approved, she is hopeful because the bill is already gaining solid support from officials all across the state.