Michigan

In 2014, the Flint water crisis focused national attention on access to safe drinking water as a basic human right. Over the decade that followed, NRDC fought alongside the residents, as part of a coalition of groups on the ground, to secure safe drinking water for the city. Our years of litigation and broader advocacy helped build the momentum to secure Michigan’s lead in drinking water protections—which are now the strongest in the nation—through both the Michigan Lead and Copper Rule and the state’s landmark Filter First laws for schools and childcare centers. NRDC’s Michigan-based advocates also helped negotiate the state’s protections against PFAS in drinking water and built the backing for a statewide water affordability program. 

Beyond NRDC’s Safe Water Initiative accomplishments, we’re guiding the state forward on its commitment to lower emissions in various ways. In 2023, our advocates pushed for the groundbreaking Clean Energy Future package, through which the Wolverine State is now aiming for 100 percent clean energy by 2040. We’re also making strides to help residents and businesses alike reduce energy waste and save on electricity bills, including by expanding state utilities’ energy efficiency initiatives that make upgraded heating and cooling systems more affordable. Throughout all of these initiatives, we’re ensuring that community voices are at the center of Michiganders’ efforts to solve the problems impacting their communities. 

SEE OUR OTHER STATE WORK