LANSING, Mich. — Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt on Tuesday urged Senate Democrats to stop delaying and vote on critical funding to support Northern Michigan residents still recovering from the devastating ice storm that struck earlier this year.

“It’s been months since the ice storm hit, and Northern Michigan families are still struggling to rebuild,” said Nesbitt, R-Porter Township. “These are our neighbors, our communities, and they deserve help now.”

The ice storm caused widespread power outages, property damage and economic hardship across Northern Michigan, leaving many residents in urgent need of assistance. President Donald Trump approved Michigan’s request for a federal disaster declaration last month.

“The House, Senate Republicans and the governor are at the table, ready to act,” Nesbitt said. “Instead of playing political games while people are in need of relief, Senate Democrats need to stop obstructing and do what’s right for the people of Michigan.”

Despite bipartisan support for relief funding, House Bill 4328 has sat in the Senate Committee on Appropriations for three months without action. Nesbitt is calling for immediate action on the disaster relief package, which includes targeted funding to address storm-related damage, support local businesses and help families recover.

“We have a responsibility to put Michiganders first,” Nesbitt said.