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Citizen's Advisory Workgroup

A microphone standing in an auditorium

Citizen's Advisory Workgroup

The creation of the Citizen's Advisory Workgroup builds on Governor Gretchen Whitmer's Executive Order 2019-03 (EO), which formalized MPART's mission within the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and directed the agency to increase citizen engagement, transparency, and accountability in the ongoing state efforts to identify PFAS contamination and protect public health.

"In February I signed an executive order establishing MPART as an enduring body that would address the threat of PFAS with the goal of continuing to protect public health and ensure the safety of Michigan's land, air and water," Whitmer said. "Michiganders must be a part of the conversation when it comes to combating PFAS. I'm looking forward to seeing the joint work towards real solutions between MPART and the public. All state government processes should be accessible and transparent, especially when it comes to public health and the environment."

In addition to representing the concerns of communities negatively impacted by PFAS and keeping the public informed, the Citizen's Advisory Workgroup also will provide input and advice to MPART as it continues its mission of identify and mitigating PFAS contamination and protecting the public from exposure risks.

"A critical element of protecting public health is keeping the public informed," said MPART executive director Steve Sliver. "We look forward to hearing from members of the public who want to help their fellow Michiganders stay informed, educated and empowered in our state's ongoing response to PFAS contamination in their communities."

Charter

The workgroup's draft charter was developed with input from three focus group sessions held with members of the public directly impacted by PFAS contamination in their communities. The draft charter was approved by MPART on September 27, 2019.

Citizen's Advisory Workgroup Charter

The first page of the Community Awareness Information handout

Introduction to PFAS 101: Community Awareness Information

The following handout provides "community awareness documentation" and outlines an introduction in understanding the basics of exposure to PFAS chemicals as well as the associated health risks to you and your family. It also provides more detailed information and websites that you can go to learn more about how PFAS can affect your daily lives.

This handout was created by the Citizens Advisory Workgroup for informational purposes only. The Michigan PFAS Action Response Team (MPART) is not responsible for its content, does not endorse the content of this document, and does not attest to the accuracy of any information linked to from this document.

Download the handout

Meeting Materials

Membership Registration Form

You must read and understand the workgroup charter before filling out a registration form to be considered for MPART Citizen's Advisory Workgroup membership. Do not fill in the form in your internet browser -- save the document to your computer first, then fill in the form. 

MPART has made the form available in three formats for your convenience:

Email to Kelly Ploehn at PloehnK@Michigan.gov

Or, mail to:

Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)
Attn: Kelly Ploehn, MPART
Constitution Hall
525 West Allegan Street
P.O. Box 30473
Lansing, MI 48909-7973

Assistance

If you require assistance in filling out this form, or if you have any questions, the State of Michigan Environmental Assistance Center can be contacted at 800-662-9278 between 8:00 AM and 4:30 PM Monday through Friday or email anytime to EGLE-Assist@Michigan.gov.