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$100 million package approved to improve Flint's water infrastructure

Posted at 5:28 PM, Dec 15, 2016
and last updated 2021-01-14 15:59:16-05

Federal aid is on the way to improve Flint's water infrastructure. It's a multi-million dollar package that not only helps Flint but other communities impacted by lead-contaminated water.

The U.S. Senate approved $100 million in funding and will also make $20 million in low-interest loans available for upgrades to water treatment systems in other communities.

The Flint Water Crisis exposed failures by state and federal authorities to protect people from lead-contaminated water, despite a massive public outcry.

Because of that, federal lawmakers are making another change. Going forward, the EPA will be required to warn the public within 24 hours of high lead levels in drinking water if state officials don't.

The agreement also provides $50 million for the health care needs of children who have been exposed to lead.