Vandalizing the truth about HB 5319 (Water Protection)
Vandalism usually happens to things like cars, mailboxes, etc. But it can also happen to something less tangible, like truth. It’s amazing how easy it is to start a rumor just by circulating misinformation.
Recently articles have been published that state either outright or by implication that HB 5319,sponsored by Representative Dan Scripps, would tax our private well-water and is therefore an example of government "take-over" of our "private property". In fact, the bill does just the opposite. It empowers us as citizens to maintain the control we have always enjoyed over our water, whether in lakes and streams or underground. Water is a public trust and is held in trust by us all as a common good. Therefore, it should not be privatized and sold for private profit for the benefit of the few, leaving the rest of us "high and dry", as our watershed is depleted of this precious resource.
Let’s stop vandalizing the truth. HB 5319 is not about intrusive government "taking away private property rights". Rather it provides protection for the water with which we here in Michigan are so richly blessed . If you desire further clarification, call Representative Scripps. You will find him to be a very approachable, dedicated public servant.
Bill Hansen
Williamsburg
