Recently, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin confirmed that Flint's water system is now compliant with lead standards, marking a significant milestone since the emergency order was first issued.

In response to the crisis, an emergency order was issued in January 2016, prompting federal oversight of the city's water sampling and providing resources for water filters and aid.

With the end of the emergency order, Flint will return to standard regulatory requirements overseen by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE).

In 2024, Flint agreed to an administrative consent order with Michigan's Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy to adhere to the Lead and Copper Rule and the Safe Drinking Water Act.

In late 2023, efforts for criminal prosecutions related to the crisis were halted, resulting in no convictions for those involved in the scandal.

As part of the ongoing response, the state of Michigan agreed to a $600 million settlement with Flint residents affected by the water contamination.

The Flint water crisis began in 2014 when emergency managers, appointed by former Governor Rick Snyder, switched the city's water supply from the Detroit system to the Flint River without proper corrosion control measures, leading to lead contamination from aging pipes.

This crisis exposed tens of thousands of residents to high lead levels and resulted in health issues, including an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease, which led to at least 12 deaths and many illnesses.

Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley described the lifting of the order as a testament to the resilience and advocacy of Flint residents, reaffirming the city's commitment to safe drinking water.

Despite the lifting of the emergency order, Zeldin emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration among all levels of government to support Flint's community and maintain water quality.

Activist Melissa Mays expressed concerns about remaining deficiencies in Flint's water system and criticized the EPA for lifting the order before all issues are resolved.

Criminal indictments against former state officials related to the crisis were dismissed last year due to procedural issues identified by the Michigan Supreme Court.