Securing Federal Commitment to Protect Great Lakes Economy

Securing Federal Commitment to Protect Great Lakes Economy

by | May 12, 2025 | Regional News

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 9, 2025

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer Statement After Securing Massive Federal Commitment to Protect Great Lakes Economy

President takes executive action to recommit federal support for Brandon Road Interbasin Project that will protect Great Lakes, Midwest economy weeks after Governor advocated for it in White House meeting

 

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer released a statement after President Donald Trump signed a memorandum in support of the Brandon Road Interbasin Project (“Brandon Road”). The president’s action comes just weeks after the governor raised the issue with him in Oval Office meetings. Michigan is funding half of the 10% non-federal cost share of the project, together with the State of Illinois, with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers leading on construction. The transformational effort will help stop invasive carp from moving into the Great Lakes, protecting Michigan’s maritime economy. Brandon Road has been a top Michigan priority for over 20 years, and after a long process and relentless advocacy, it is finally getting done.

 

Governor Whitmer Statement

“Today, Michigan scored another huge win that will protect our Great Lakes and secure our economy. After years of advocacy alongside our partners in Illinois and together with a wide range of stakeholders at the local, state, and federal levels, we now have renewed assurances from the Administration to move forward expeditiously on the Brandon Road Interbasin Project. I am grateful to the President for his commitment.

 

“This game-changing project, built at a critical water junction, will protect the Great Lakes from invasive species of carp. These fish, if allowed to enter the lakes, would destroy the ecosystem below the water and devastate our economy above it. The Great Lakes are home to 3,500 plant and animal species and they support 1.5 million jobs that generate than $60 billion in wages a year across the entire region.

 

“That’s why I went to Washington, DC to advocate for this project face-to-face with the President at the White House. I am grateful that, in the midst of a lot of change at the federal level, he is confirming that our federal partners are as committed as ever to getting this done. It’s especially great to have yet another huge win with our U.S. Department of Defense on the heels of securing a new fighter mission last month at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County.

 

“Michigan continues to win because we show up, talk to anyone, and work together to get things done.”

 

Brandon Road Background

The Brandon Road Interbasin Project will implement a complex series of invasive carp and aquatic nuisance species deterrents. Located near Joliet, Illinois, it will sit at a critical pinch point to stop invasive carp from moving into the Great Lakes.  Silver carp feed on plankton, a primary food for many native fish including walleye, yellow perch, and lake whitefish. They are voracious eaters, consuming up to 40% of their weight per day, and can reach up to 60 pounds, with each female producing up to one million eggs. In the Great Lakes, the silver carp would be likely to populate nearshore areas and large rivers, which would devastate sport and commercial fishing, threatening the $7 billion fishing industry in the Great Lakes. These fish also violently jump out of the water when startled, even resulting in injury to humans, and would harm the boating, tourism, and maritime economy. Silver carp have been reported in 12 states surrounding the Mississippi and Ohio River basins. Michigan has been working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Illinois, and other Great Lakes states since 2011 to get this done. Important milestones along the way include:

 

  • 2014: the Great Lakes Mississippi River Interbasin Separation Study identified several options for separating the two basins. Subsequently, the Brandon Road lock and Dam site in Joliet, Illinois, was identified as the best location to prevent invasive species from entering the Great Lakes.
  • 2018: the Brandon Road Feasibility Study was finalized, and Michigan committed $8 million to the project.
  • 2020: a Planning, Engineering, and Design agreement was signed between Illinois and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Michigan supported Illinois as a nonfederal sponsor and contributed $8 million of the $10.1 million nonfederal funds required.
  • 2022: a new cost for the Brandon Road Interbasin Project was estimated at $1.14 billion, requiring a 10% nonfederal cost share.
  • 2023: appropriations in Michigan ($64 million) and Illinois ($50 million) meet the nonfederal requirement to begin construction of the project.
  • 2024: Michigan and Illinois cosign a project partnership agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, securing the nonfederal cost share and paving the way for construction.

The project is supported by a large bipartisan coalition, including local, state, and federal officials on both sides of the aisle, conservation and environmental advocacy groups, hunters and anglers, tourism, maritime and boating advocates, and regional Great Lakes intergovernmental groups. The project has specifically been a top priority of the inter-state and international Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governors and Premiers, currently chaired by Governor Whitmer.

 

Protecting the Great Lakes & Water

Michigan is home to 21% of the world’s fresh water. Since taking office, Governor Whitmer has taken action to protect the Great Lakes and Michigan’s tourism industry, both of which are critical to the state’s economy, history, and way of life. She signed game-changing clean energy legislation to enact a 100% clean energy standard by 2040 and protect Michigan’s precious natural resources. She established and funded the MI Clean Water plan, an over $4.6 billion investment to protect the Great Lakes from pollution and help communities across the state upgrade their water infrastructure. Michigan also continues to enforce the strongest Lead and Copper Rule for drinking water in the country and established health-based standards for PFAS in drinking water supplies.
Exceptionally high interest in proposed Medicaid cuts

Exceptionally high interest in proposed Medicaid cuts

by | May 12, 2025 | Health and Wellness

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 12, 2025

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112, SutfinL1@michigan.gov

Exceptionally high interest in how proposed Medicaid cuts
could affect Michigan families, businesses during MDHHS briefings
Two virtual briefings, recording offered to provide additional access to information 

LANSING, Mich. – Two virtual Medicaid funding briefings offered to statewide community partners last week by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) were maxed out, when more than 5,000 people registered for the events.

MDHHS provided the briefings to ensure everyone has a chance to learn more about how proposed federal Medicaid cuts could result in a loss of health care coverage for hundreds of thousands of Michiganders, reduce access to providers for all residents, increase financial burdens on hospitals and small businesses, and significantly strain the state’s budget. Due to the high demand, MDHHS has posted a recording of the briefing online as well as additional supporting materials. 

“We know Michigan families, business owners and health care providers are very concerned about how these proposed federal cuts will affect our state and want to make sure everyone gets a chance to hear this information,” said MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel. “These cuts will impact health care services for all Michigan families – whether they have Medicaid or commercial insurance – and small town and rural communities are likely to be disproportionally affected through the loss of hospitals and providers. Studies show a lack of access to health care can lead to higher mortality rates, worse health outcomes, increased health disparities and strain the state’s emergency care system.”

A Congressional plan to cut $880 billion from Medicaid so they can deliver a $4 trillion tax cut has been announced. If passed, this would be the largest cut to Medicaid in its 60-year history. Nationwide, millions would lose access to health care and the cost of health care will go up for every single American.

Earlier this week, MDHHS published a report the department compiled in response to Executive Directive 2025-3 from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, which directed MDHHS to identify the potential impact proposed cuts to Medicaid would have on Michiganders’ health.

Medicaid serves a central role in Michigan’s health care system, providing comprehensive coverage to more than 2.6 million Michigan residents through over 200,000 Medicaid-enrolled providers. Jointly funded by the state and federal government, Michigan’s Fiscal Year 2025 Medicaid budget is approximately $27.8 billion. A majority of this funding – around 70%, or $19 billion – comes from the federal government.

Medicaid is also one of the most cost-efficient forms of coverage, ensuring those with the greatest need have access to vital services, particularly in underserved communities and rural areas. It has lower total and per capita costs than all other major health programs, including Medicare and private health insurance.
MDARD’s Summer Gasoline Program Returns

MDARD’s Summer Gasoline Program Returns

by | May 12, 2025 | Environmental

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For immediate release: May 12, 2025

Media contact: Lynsey Mukomel, 517-290-1734

More than a Fueling: MDARD’s Summer Gasoline Program Returns to Southeast Michigan June 1

Program Curbs Smog and Helps Michiganders Breathe Easy

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is gearing up to cut emissions and keep our skies smog-free through the annual summer gasoline program. From June 1 to September 15, MDARD will require suppliers and retailers in eight southeast Michigan counties to sell or dispense gasoline with a Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) no greater than 7.0 pounds per square inch (psi).

“MDARD’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our fellow Michiganders begins with protecting the health of our soil, water and air,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “The summer gasoline program is one of MDARD’s many contributions to Governor Whitmer’s Healthy Climate Plan, which takes bold action to protect Michiganders and the natural resources we cherish.”

MDARD first introduced the summer gasoline program in Lenawee, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, Washtenaw and Wayne Counties in 1996 after ozone measurements in those counties exceeded the National Ambient Air Quality Standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Under the program, MDARD inspectors conduct on-site testing and collect samples for laboratory analysis. Enforcing the low-RVP requirement improves air quality, protects public health and ensures that Michigan continues to receive federal highway funding.

“Summer formula gasoline increases fuel efficiency and helps prevent the release of smog-causing compounds into the atmosphere,” said Craig VanBuren, Director of MDARD’s Laboratory and Consumer Protection Bureau. “By enforcing a maximum RVP of 7.0 psi for gasoline during the summer months, MDARD protects Michigan’s air quality and helps our fellow Michiganders breathe a little easier.”

RVP is a measure of gasoline volatility. The greater the volatility, the more gasoline evaporates into the air. During the summer, elevated air temperatures can cause high-RVP gasoline to evaporate into the air at harmful rates. These gasoline vapors contribute to ozone build-up at the ground level.

Ozone is a key component of smog, an often brown or yellow haze produced by vehicle emissions, industrial activities and other sources. Smog can trigger asthma attacks, exacerbate lung disease and increase the likelihood of respiratory infections. Even healthy people may experience eye irritation, sore throats, coughing and shortness of breath when smog levels are high.

Michigan’s Motor Fuel Quality Act, Public Act 44 of 1984, charges MDARD with enforcing ozone protection measures and ensuring the quality of the gasoline dispensed throughout the state. Anyone who suspects problems at the pump should call MDARD’s 24-hour hotline for reporting complaints, 1-800-MDA-FUEL (1-800-632-3835).

Learn how MDARD helps ensure you pay a fair price at the gas pump.

Read about MDARD’s Weights and Measures Program
DNR News: Wildlife Officer of the Year

DNR News: Wildlife Officer of the Year

by | May 9, 2025 | Recreation

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DNR News
May 9, 2025
Contact: Lt. Gerald Thayer, 269-685-6851

Conservation officer from Kent County receives Wildlife Officer of the Year award

two men stand in a hall smilingMichigan Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officer Justin Ulberg has been named the 2024 Shikar Safari Michigan Wildlife Officer of the Year.

The annual award, presented to Ulberg at Thursday’s meeting of the Michigan Natural Resources Commission in Lansing, is the highest state honor for conservation officers who demonstrate exceptional dedication to natural resources protection, law enforcement and community engagement.

Ulberg patrols Kent County, which offers both populated rural suburbs and expansive natural landscapes.

“CO Justin Ulberg’s commitment and dedication to our state have been nothing short of exemplary,” said Lt. Gerald Thayer, DNR district law supervisor based out of Plainwell. “He consistently steps up to take on assignments and leadership roles, including serving in multiple instructor positions and as a district recruiter. His strong work ethic and sound decision-making have not gone unnoticed. CO Ulberg is a tremendous asset to both our department and the people he serves each day.”

Ulberg demonstrates a high level of trust and professionalism within his community, navigating from Grand River fish patrols in downtown Grand Rapids to cold, rainy waterfowl patrols in rural fields.

In 2024, more than 170 tips reported through the DNR’s Report All Poaching hotline (800-292-7800) listed Ulberg as the primary officer. This is in addition to the many tips reported directly to Ulberg.

Ulberg has strong relationships across a wide range of communities. He assists at police training programs through high school tech centers, attends events hosted by various outdoor groups, and volunteers to staff booths at hunting and fishing expos.

A member of the DNR Law Enforcement Division since 2014, Ulberg seamlessly serves many internal roles, including district recruiter, survival tactics instructor, Taser instructor, firearms instructor, field training officer and instructor at the CO training academy.

Peers describe Ulberg as an officer they can call anytime and who will be willing to drop what he is doing to get the job done successfully – which is reflected in his field work and investigations.

Ulberg has a Bachelor of Science degree in natural resource management from Grand Valley State University, where he played football. He also received an associate degree in criminal justice from the Grand Rapids Community College Police Academy.

Ulberg’s previous career experience includes working as a reserve deputy for the Kent County Sheriff’s Department and as a Kent County animal control officer.

Michigan conservation officers are fully licensed law enforcement officers who provide natural resources protection, ensure recreational safety, and protect residents through general law enforcement and lifesaving operations in the communities they serve.

Learn more at Michigan.gov/ConservationOfficers and follow the weekly blog with updates from the conservation officer recruits in Training Academy No. 13, underway now in Lansing.

Note to editors: An accompanying photo is available below for download. Caption information follows.

Ulberg: Conservation Officer Justin Ulberg was recognized as the 2024 Shikar Safari Michigan Wildlife Officer of the Year at Thursday’s Michigan Natural Resources Committee meeting in Lansing. Ulberg patrols Kent County and has been a CO since 2014. Ulberg (right) is shown with Jason Haines, DNR Law Enforcement Division  chief.

Following a severe ice storm in northern Michigan, the Department of Natural Resources is assessing damage and conducting cleanup at several state parks, state park campgrounds, state forest campgrounds, boating access sites and state-managed trails. Find up-to-date information about closures, volunteer opportunities and more on the DNR storm recovery page.
Need for safe, loving homes during Foster Care Month

Need for safe, loving homes during Foster Care Month

by | May 9, 2025 | Health and Wellness

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 9, 2025

CONTACT: Erin Stover, [email protected]

MDHHS raises awareness of the need for safe and loving homes during Foster Care Month

LANSING, Mich. – During Foster Care Month, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is raising awareness of the need for additional foster parents to provide temporary care of children while the state works to reunify them safely with their parents.

“I’m grateful for the dedication of thousands of families across the state who have opened their hearts and homes to help keep kids safe,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “There is always need for more foster parents to help ensure every child in Michigan has a safe place to call home.”

Foster care identifies and places children in safe homes when they cannot remain with their families because of safety concerns. Foster families provide children with the consistency and support they need until they can be safely returned to their families. While the primary goal is to reunite the child or children with their parents, when they can’t be returned to their homes, foster parents can be asked to provide permanent homes through adoption.

In Michigan, there are approximately 10,000 children in foster care and nearly 200 children who still need an adoptive family.

MDHHS provides foster families a daily reimbursement rate to help with the care of foster children based on their age and specific needs. Foster families also receive a semi-annual clothing allowance, and many families qualify for reimbursement for the costs of day care. Children in foster care are eligible for Medicaid, which pays for medical, dental and mental health care.

How to become a foster parent:

  • The first step in becoming a foster parent is to contact a Foster Care Navigator. Navigators are experienced foster parents who help guide prospective foster parents through the licensure process and provide additional resources and support.
  • Prospective foster parents are required to attend a comprehensive orientation that reviews guidelines and walks participants through what they can expect as foster parents. Foster care agency representatives are also on hand to answer any questions.
  • After attending orientation, prospective foster parents complete a licensing application packet. The application steps include fingerprinting, providing medical records and completing other requested paperwork from the licensing agency.
  • Prospective foster parents are also required to attend free training that includes 20-25 hours of content, which helps prospective caregivers gain an understanding of the unique needs children in foster care may have.
  • Before welcoming a child in foster care into their home, prospective foster parents must complete an on-site home evaluation performed by the licensing agent. The selected agency meets with prospective foster family several times for on-site home visits and interviews

Foster parents should be committed individuals who are:

  • Willing to work with the child’s parents.
  • Supportive of efforts to return the child home.
  • Able to work with children who have emotional and behavioral needs.
  • Able to encourage teens toward independent living.
  • Willing to provide a permanent home if necessary.

To learn more about foster care, please visit Michigan.gov/HopeforaHome.