Great Lakes Wire

A federal court in the District of Rhode Island has ruled in favor of Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and a coalition of 22 attorneys general regarding the enforcement of FEMA grants. This decision comes after a renewed motion was filed to contest the previous administration's decision, under former President Donald Trump, to halt federal funding through FEMA grants to state agencies.

Attorney General Nessel emphasized the critical nature of these funds: "FEMA and the federal administration cannot pick and choose when to abide federal court orders." She noted the importance of these grants for emergency preparedness and disaster avoidance intended for Michigan State Police (MSP) and the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).

The ruling mandates FEMA to "immediately cease the challenged manual review process" and comply with an earlier injunction prohibiting the delay of federal funds distribution. This decision aims to address the blockade of significant funding to states. Currently, Michigan is awaiting nearly $100 million in FEMA reimbursements earmarked for state police and environmental oversight.

AG Nessel expressed hope that the court's decision will facilitate the immediate distribution of these crucial funds, which have been stagnated due to the contested review process implemented by the Trump administration.