Michigan would offer capped grants for flood planning and restoration

The department would run a grant program for flood planning and restoration projects. Local governments, federally recognized tribes, and nonprofits or private consulting organizations applying on their behalf may seek grants for flood studies, planning, and related restoration projects. Grant amounts cannot exceed 75% of projected project costs or the applicable dollar cap, whichever is lower. Applications must include approval from the local government or tribe and explain how costs not covered by the grant will be paid. Recipients must use the grant within two years. They must report on the project by 90 days after it ends or two years after receiving the money, whichever comes first.

The department would make rules for reviewing grant applications and setting application requirements. The rules would apply to applications for grants under the flood resilience program. Review standards must consider disaster declarations, repeated flooding or erosion, cost, measurable results, useful planning data, and other criteria that prioritize beneficial projects. Application requirements must include project descriptions, work plans, budgets, supporting documents, and timelines. The bill text does not state when the department must complete these rules.

The department would report each year on the program to state officials and legislative committees. The report would go to the governor and the House and Senate natural resources and environment committees. Each report must cover the preceding year and include program activities, grant recipients and amounts, and recommendations on continuing the program and its funding levels. The first report is due by July 1, 2027, with a report due by each July 1 after that.