St. Joe-Benton Harbor News

State Sen. Michele Hoitenga called on Senate leaders Monday to advance disaster relief legislation that has been stalled in committee since May, following President Donald Trump’s approval of federal emergency aid for Northern Michigan communities affected by a severe ice storm earlier this year.

“While the historic ice storm that left 12 counties in a state of emergency has passed, our region continues to grapple with the costly aftermath,” said Hoitenga, R-Manton. “I am thankful to President Trump for his commitment to providing federal assistance to the people of Northern Michigan. Now, it is crucial for the Senate to pass state funding that will enable our most vulnerable residents to access critical resources not covered by federal aid. Our communities need this support to rebuild and recover effectively.

“The Senate majority leader must take swift and decisive action by bringing House Bill 4328 to the floor for a vote without delay.”

House Bill 4328 was approved by the Michigan House of Representatives on May 7 with bipartisan support, passing by a vote of 107-1. The bill proposes $100 million in disaster relief and was introduced by Rep. Parker Fairbairn (R-Harbor Springs). Its aim is to provide matching funds and encourage additional federal dollars for recovery efforts. However, it remains under review in the Senate Committee on Appropriations.

The recent federal disaster declaration allows Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Kalkaska, Mackinac, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego and Presque Isle counties access to Federal Emergency Management Agency funding.