In 2020, Michigan had to respond to a deadly pandemic and a massive 500-year flood.
Both emergencies revealed deficiencies in the state’s response.
Sen. Jim Ananich (D-Flint) wants the state to be better prepared for future emergencies.
Ananich has submitted legislation that would establish a board would be charged with planning for future disasters and to maintain supplies that will be needed to respond.
The board would create and oversee the “MI Supply Infrastructure Facility.” The board would be responsible for stockpiling supplies, including personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilators, flood remediation supplies and other emergency equipment.
Even though the state is still dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic and flood recovery in Midland and Gladwin counties, Ananich says this is the time to start preparing for what comes next.
“You can’t solve every problem,” says Ananich. “But if you have people who are focused on it that are experts in this field you can make sure that you’re as prepared as possible.”
Ananich says the board could work with private businesses to produce equipment and community colleges to train responders.
Ananich’s bill has been introduced and referred to the Senate Committee on Appropriations.
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