Michigan Guv Declares State Of Emergency In Flint Over Lead In Drinking Water

Mich. Gov. Rick Snyder announces support in the city of Flint's plan to switch back to Detroit water due to high lead levels during a news conference in Flint, Mich. on Thursday Oct. 8, 2015. Flint stopped using wat... Mich. Gov. Rick Snyder announces support in the city of Flint's plan to switch back to Detroit water due to high lead levels during a news conference in Flint, Mich. on Thursday Oct. 8, 2015. Flint stopped using water from the Detroit system last year as a cost-cutting measure, opting instead for a supply direct from the Flint River. (Christian Randolph/The Flint Journal-MLive.com via AP) LOCAL TELEVISION OUT; LOCAL INTERNET OUT; MANDATORY CREDIT MORE LESS
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FLINT, Mich. (AP) — Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder has declared a state of emergency in Flint over problems with lead in the city’s drinking water as federal officials confirm they’re investigating the matter.

Snyder announced the action Tuesday. It makes available state resources in cooperation with local response and recovery operations.

Federal prosecutors also said Tuesday they’re working with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on an investigation into problems with lead in Flint’s water supply.

The city temporarily switched from Detroit’s water system to Flint River water in a cost-cutting move in 2014, while under state financial management.

Residents complained about the water’s taste, smell and appearance and children were found to have elevated levels of lead.

Last week, Snyder apologized and Michigan’s top environmental regulator resigned.

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