Currently, the Michigan legislature is debating bills that threaten fresh water in Michigan by making more water eligible for diversion and removing public control of our water. The Senate voted last week to pass SB 860 that allows up to 25% of Michigan's waters to be open for withdrawal. Critics--including groups like Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation--have pointed out that this law would make it much easier for corporations to sell Michigan's water for a profit.
In response, Progress Michigan is encouraging people to contact their legislators to oppose the bill. The bill still needs to pass in the House of Representatives and then differences need to be worked out in a conference committee, so there is still time for people to have an impact on the legislation.
Moreover, as an alternative to this policy, the environmental group Clean Water Action has proposed the "Great Lakes, Great Michigan: 2007 Platform" would require water diversions to be protected via "public trust" principles that prioritize the common good over private profit.
Thank you for keeping West Michigan in touch with the decisions affecting us all from Lansing!
And Thanks to Clean Water Action and Progress Michigan and any other group working to keep Michigan's PUBLIC waters for common good.
Public resources cannot be allowed to be exploited for private profit!
Michigan is smarter than this and together we will do right as stewards of this incredible region.
Michigan is a place of unique wonder in this World, and we must show her the respect that she deserves.
MICHIGAN'S WATER IS NOT FOR SALE
repeat
MICHIGAN'S WATER IS NOT FOR SALE
Those who SUPPORT laws that provide privatization and exploitation of this precious resource necessary to all life -- will NOT be supported in Michigan's Great Land of Wonder.
To State Lawmakers, and our dedicated Public Servants:
Make wise choices for the future of Michigan, or start looking for your next job as a disgruntled lobbyist. (If you think politics are grisly now, just wait till you aren't even allowed to made decisions for yourself any longer.)
The history books will carry our names.
Sleep well at night, knowing you've done right for the long haul that will remember your name.