What's happening in Flint, Michigan? Due to financial issues, the town of Flint decided to change their water source to the Flint River instead of Lake Huron because it would be less costly. Although this switch was established two years ago, people have barely discovered the water contamination since 2011. The water was contaminated with lead and iron because it was not treated with anti-corrosive agent. The iron in the water caused lead to be released into the water supply. Even though researchers discovered high levels of lead in the water, State officials claimed that there was nothing for the people to worry about.
Evidence Luckily, a doctor named, Hanna-Attisha, conducted high levels of lead in her younger patients. Although the State had evidence of lead in the water supply, the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) denied the crucial problems that Flint was facing even though the water was 19 more times filled with iron. However, in efforts to make a change, the State took the initiative of switching back to Lake Huron. Unfortunately, those pipes were damaged. Dr. Hanna-Attisha concluded that lead poisoning is irreversible and can cause brain damage. This water has caused more than ten deaths and has increased the chances of becoming sick.
So what do we do now? Eight lawsuits have been filed against Government Officials since this the water in Flint, Michigan became an issue. President Obama has declared this issue as federal state of emergency to further authorize additional help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. Snyder, the governor of Michigan, has since apologized to the citizens of Flint, promising to renew the water supply. The governor has funded $28 million fro Flint supplies, medical care and infrastructure upgrades.
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On March 6, 2016, A democratic debate took place in Flint Michigan. The water crisis, not surprisingly, dominated the first half of the debate. Both Sanders and Hillary stated that the local officials should vow assistance. Clinton added, "It is raining lead in Flint, and the state is derelict in not coming forward with the money that is required." The candidates strongly argued that the governor of the state, Rick Snyder should resign or face a recall election. Clinton stated that she was grateful that the dem party had followed through on her request to hold the debate in Flint. That same night, Gov. Snyder offered what appeared to be a response via Twitter.