(WXYZ) — Former Governor Rick Snyder will be questioned under oath Thursday about the Flint water scandal.
The deposition is focused on what his administration knew, and what was done — or not done — to protect people in Flint from the toxic water.
This will be the first time in four years the former governor will be required to answer questions related to Flint — under oath. This is tied to civil lawsuits on behalf of more than a dozen Flint children — whose cases could start in November.
In 2014, to save money, Flint started used water from the Flint river for its 100,000 residents. But the water was contaminated, and exposed thousands, including kids to poisonous lead.
Thursday’s deposition isn’t focused on Snyder’s responsibility in the crisis, but rather to find out what others, including his administration, knew — and what they did or didn’t do to keep Flint residents safe.
Attorney for 10 out of the 14 children whose civil cases could start in the fall, wants Snyder in the hot seat, but first — wants the issue of immunity dealt with.
Snyder, along with the former State Treasurer Andy Dillon, have argued they can’t be forced to answer questions about Flint, while they’re still fighting to be dismissed from lawsuits based on quality immunity, which would shield them from being held personally liable.
Earlier this month, a federal appeals court ruled they can’t dodge lawyers’ questions altogether — but a judge can put limits on what they’re asked about.
The deposition is scheduled via Zoom this morning at 9 a.m. It’s not open to the public, but we will be speaking with attorneys afterward.
