Michigan's Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) accounts for only 1.2% of the $14.1 Billion Michigan State Budget1, and more than half of EGLE's budget flows directly back to Michigan communities. The programs it administers (including drinking water infrastructure funding, brownfield remediation, restoration, and more) often return $5 to $6 for every $1 invested.
Yet despite the immense benefits EGLE provides for our environment now and ensuring a sustainable, prosperous future for Michigan, Republicans in the State House have the agency in their crosshairs. The budget proposed in April would slash the EGLE budget by 50% - undoubtedly allowing polluters to profit more, while our communities, infrastructure, drinking water, and more pay the price. Drastic cuts are also being proposed on funding for climate related programs, despite the ongoing crisis.
Write your Michigan lawmakers today and tell them to defend EGLE and funding for critical Michigan environmental programs!
1. Senate Fiscal Agency. "Budget Overview: Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy" (PDF)
