“We have worked diligently to restore the water quality and the scientific data now proves the water system is stable and the need for bottled water has ended,” said Michigan Gov.
Snyder’s statement.
We are grateful to the researchers who discovered the problem and to the thousands of people who have provided water and support, and helped monitor the water quality.” Michigan has been providing free bottled water to Flint citizens since a state of emergency was declared in 2016, but the state is now closing the four distribution centers that remain.
City officials disagree with this decision, saying that Flint is still in recovery.
“We did not cause the man-made water disaster, therefore adequate resources should continue being provided until the problem is fixed and all the lead and galvanized pipes have been replaced,” said Karen Weaver, mayor of Flint.
As of now, the city of Flint has replaced over 6,200 of the lead pipes by working with contractors.
Snyder’s statement.
“Even with the quality water results to date, we will continue to support Mayor Karen Weaver’s service line replacement program as it is an important component to the long-term integrity of the Flint water system.” After the announcement was made, Flint residents lined up at distribution centers to collect the last of the free water bottles.
Many are still concerned about its effects on the children of Flint, as one study by the American Journal of Public Health has found that twice the percentage of children in Flint had elevated levels of lead in their blood after the water source switched in 2014.
“We have not received clear steps as to how the remaining lead in Flint schools will be remediated or how ongoing monitoring will continue for our most vulnerable populations.” Michigan will still be providing free water filters to Flint residents should they request them.