LANSING, MI - Sen. Jim Ananich has introduced a resolution that would grant state lawmakers probing the Flint water crisis subpoena power.
Ananich, D-Flint, introduced the resolution Tuesday, March 1, claiming the committee reviewing the crisis needed every tool and that every topic should be on the table for review.
"We can't rely solely on selective emails coming out drip by drip to piece together what happened -- we need the power to call up everyone involved to answer tough questions," Sen. Ananich said. "By providing subpoena power to this committee, we can ensure that the governor -- and no one in his administration -- is not allowed to hide behind closed doors."
Gov. Rick Snyder's office, which is immune to the state's Freedom of Information Act, released thousands of pages of emails Feb. 26 showing his office's involvement with the city's water situation.
Ananich's Press Secretary Angela Wittrock said the senator would seek to subpoena senior members of the Snyder administration who were aware of the public health crisis facing Flint and failed to act.
The resolution would need approval from both the House and Senate. It was referred to the Senate Committee on Government Operations.
The committee, announced Feb. 23, is expected to take testimony on the mistakes that led to the situation in Flint and explore potential policy solutions to prevent similar disasters in the future.
A total of four Republicans and two Democrats selected from both the House and Senate were selected for the committee. Members include, Rep. Ed McBroom, R-Vulcan; Rep. Ed Canfield, R-Sebawing; Rep Jeff Irwin, D-Ann Arbor; Sen. Jim Stamas, R-Midland; Sen. Joe Hune, R-Hamburg; and Ananich.
Snyder's office declined comment on the resolution.