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Bill

SB 796

Appropriations: supplemental; funding for PFAS mitigation and water safety; provide for. Creates appropriation act.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Michele Hoitenga

Michigan allocates supplemental state funding for PFAS contamination mitigation and drinking water safety improvements across affected communities.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
#appropriations:supplemental
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Bill Summary · SB 796

Legislative bill overview

SB 796 is a supplemental appropriations bill introduced in Michigan that allocates funding specifically for PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) mitigation and water safety initiatives. The bill creates a new appropriation act to address contamination from these persistent chemicals commonly found in industrial sites, firefighting foams, and consumer products. This is preliminary legislation currently in committee review.

Why is this important

PFAS contamination poses documented health risks including liver damage, thyroid disease, and immune system effects, and has been detected in Michigan's drinking water supplies in multiple communities. Dedicated state funding for mitigation can support water treatment infrastructure upgrades, remediation programs, and monitoring—addressing a problem that often falls between federal and local jurisdiction. Michigan has significant manufacturing and military installations that are known PFAS sources, making state-level action particularly relevant.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: Questions about whether supplemental funding is the appropriate mechanism versus regular budget allocation, and whether the amount is sufficient for statewide mitigation
  • Scope definition: Unclear what specific programs, infrastructure projects, or geographic areas the funding will prioritize, potentially raising equity concerns about which communities benefit first
  • Liability and responsibility: Debate over whether state funding should supplement or substitute for polluter cleanup obligations under state and federal environmental law

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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