As Flint officials are assessing how much things will cost, Lansing legislatures are asking why did it take so long?
"I think that people's voices in Flint were ignored at first. They were told that this isn't really a problem" said Democratic Representative Andy Schor. "And then they were told we'll look into it and then they were told calm down don't worry about it."
But as we now know the problem was more than anyone expected. And that's why Representative Schor is demanding more be done for the people of Flint.
"People know that this is a public safety problem for the citizens of Flint and the state had a role and the state needs to be part of that solution and I would generally be supportive of assisting our Michigan residents" said Rep. Schor.
As Rep. Schor helps his kids prepare for a gymnastic tournament he can't help but think of the children affected by the water.
"When you talk about elevated lead, that causes learning problems, that causes all kinds of issues. I would be very upset which is why I believe the citizens of Flint have every right to be very upset" Rep. Schor said. "I would hope that we would step up to the plate and do what we need to do."
And the decision to help Flint is a bipartisan one with both parties in agreement that something must be done.
"If Governor Snyder asks for more money to get the lead out of the water in Flint, I will support it." said Senator Rick Jones. "Nobody should have to drink water that has lead in it and we need to protect all of the people of Flint especially the children that are affected so badly by lead in the water."
Because every penny on that price tag is worth it. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Michigan has opened an investigation into the Flint water pipes.
