House committee reports $75 million supplemental for Northern Michigan storm relief

The Michigan House Appropriations Committee on Monday voted to report House Bill 4,328, a $75 million supplemental appropriation that would provide state funding administered by the Michigan State Police to support recovery in communities hit by a recent, widespread ice and wind storm in Northern Michigan.

The bill, sponsored by Representative Fairbairn, would direct $75 million from the State General Fund to the Department of State Police to administer a storm disaster relief program. Under the bill, money may be used for state match requirements tied to federal emergency funds, emergency actions to protect life and property (including shelter and supplies), labor assistance and temporary employment, energy assistance to prevent shutoffs, and repair or replacement of disaster-damaged infrastructure and nonprofit facilities. Remaining funds may be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis for state-owned land and Department of Natural Resources property and to reimburse third-party responders,…