defined by our Great Lakes, which are visible from space and home to 21% of the world’s fresh surface water. And just as important to us every day is our groundwater, which is used for drinking, farming, and so much more. Let's keep working to protect our Great Lakes and groundwater so Michigan can thrive for generations to come.
Water plays an essential role in the quality of life – for public health, safety, and economic vitality. Good drinking water is a precious resource and one which requires ongoing investments to protect. That’s why I declared this week as Drinking Water Week in Michigan.
 Our dedicated professionals, such as scientists, engineers, regulatory officials, water plant owners and operators, and citizen groups across the state work to protect and improve our water supply and to ensure high-quality drinking water in Michigan is available for future generations. Let’s keep working together to boost access to clean, safe drinking water in every community.
With summer approaching, Michiganders will start visiting our lakes to swim and , and our public pools and water parks to enjoy a day in the sun. While we enjoy these activities, it’s essential that we remember to be safe and do all we can to prevent drownings and water-related injuries. That’s why I’m declaring this month Water Safety Month.
 The organizations that make up the National Water Safety Month Coalition develop safe swimming facilities and aquatic programs, and provide healthy places to learn and grow, which contributes to the quality of life in our community. Nothing beats a Michigan summer. Whether you go to one of our lakes, a public pool, or the pool in your backyard, remember to be safe while you have fun!
I know that the health of our economy is linked to the health of our people and our planet. I have worked to protect our air, water, and climate while creating good-paying jobs for Michiganders. As governor:
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I launched the MI Clean Water Plan that invested over $2 billion to upgrade drinking water, stormwater, and wastewater facilities across the state, supporting over 30,000 jobs.
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I signed the Building Michigan Together Plan that invested nearly $2 billion, supporting 27,000 jobs, to remove lead service lines, reduce toxic contaminants like PFAS and lead, rebuild water infrastructure, protect groundwater resources and more.
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Invested millions in last year’s budget to protect drinking water.
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Enforced the strongest Lead and Copper Rule for drinking water in the country.
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Established health-based standards for PFAS in our drinking water supplies.
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Partnered with Attorney General Dana Nessel to hold polluters accountable for contamination.
In this year’s budget, I proposed funding to help communities remove and replace 40,000 lead service lines as well as funding for water infrastructure upgrades. I will continue to work with anyone to protect our water and air from pollution and make sure that every Michigander has access to a clean, safe glass of water.
Michigan has such a rich natural history, and since 1947 the Michigan State Waterways Commission has worked to ensure Michiganders and citizens nationwide can access and enjoy it. The commission is responsible for the acquisition, construction, and maintenance of recreational harbors, channels, docking and launching facilities, and administration of commercial docks in the Straits of Mackinac. I am so thankful of the work of the Michigan State Waterways Commission as they maintain our connection to nature.
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