Senator Peters Champions Michigan Priorities in Federal Funding Bill
A recently passed federal funding bill includes several key provisions secured by Senator Gary Peters that will directly benefit Michigan, focusing on animal welfare, agricultural support, adn infrastructure improvements.
Protecting Animals & Pets: The bill builds upon Senator Peters’ commitment to animal welfare, including full funding for the Pet and Women Safety (PAWS) Act, originally signed into law in 2018.This act provides crucial resources to support domestic violence shelters in housing pets alongside their owners, recognizing the link between animal abuse and human abuse.
Enhancing Human Tissue Safety: Senator Peters successfully advocated for language requiring the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to explore enhanced monitoring of Human Cell and Tissue Products (HCT/Ps). The FDA will now assess the feasibility of implementing tissue-tracking protocols,mirroring those used for organ and blood donations. The bill also directs the FDA to collaborate with other federal agencies to develop routine post-implant monitoring guidelines for HCT/P recipients. This effort stems from Senator Peters’ previous work to prevent tuberculosis contaminations in these products, including his prior introduction of the Shandra Eisenga Human Cell and Tissue Products Safety Act, aimed at educating donors and preventing TB outbreaks.
supporting Michigan Agriculture: The bill delivers significant support for Michigan’s agricultural sector. Funding is included for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), aiding farmers in combating pests affecting specialty crops. This funding will specifically bolster Senator Peters’ Spotted Wing Abatement trust (SWAT) Act, which focuses on research and mitigation efforts related to the invasive spotted wing drosophila (SWD) - a significant threat to Michigan fruit growers. Additionally, the bill provides funding for the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), supporting vital research in food, agriculture, and natural resources. $850 million is allocated to the Natural Resources Conservation Service,offering technical and financial assistance to farmers and ranchers for conservation efforts,including $50 million for watershed and flood prevention projects.
Investing in Rural Infrastructure: The bill addresses critical infrastructure needs in rural communities. $3 million is designated for the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s watershed Rehabilitation Program, assisting communities in maintaining and upgrading aging dam infrastructure.Funding is also included for rental assistance programs to expand access to affordable housing in rural areas. Recognizing the importance of connectivity, the bill allocates $109 million for rural broadband grants and loans, targeting areas with limited access to high-speed internet.
