In Michigan, we have laws in place that give the state the power to essentially rope off polluted areas instead of cleaning them up. Instead, those laws tell the public: don’t drink the water or build your house here.

Retired DEQ staffer: "Politics have become a much bigger part of what's driving the DEQ."

The Environment Report, hosted by Lester Graham and other Michigan Public reporters, explores the relationship between the natural world and the everyday lives of people in Michigan.

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Retired DEQ staffer: "Politics have become a much bigger part of what's driving the DEQ."

Retired DEQ staffer: "Politics have become a much bigger part of what's driving the DEQ."