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Michigan Government
Citizens cannot do their job of running their government if they don’t know what their public servants are doing. Bridge will take you beyond the political food fights into the policy decisions that affect everyday life.
Articles
Without L. Brooks Patterson, new hope for mass transit in metro Detroit
After years of blocking mass-transit efforts, Oakland County has a new executive, Dave Coulter, who is bullish on regional transportation. That’s led to hopes for a multibillion-dollar tax plan next year.
What to expect when you're expecting a Michigan government shutdown
From student financial aid and liquor, to state parks and hunting and fishing licenses, here’s what services might be temporarily blocked if state leaders don’t strike a budget deal by Oct. 1.
Michigan budget negotiations break down (again) over short-term road funding
GOP leaders want to include $500 million in road funding in the budget. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and other Democrats say that may get in the way of a long-term deal to commit $2.5 billion a year that’s needed for roads.
Whitmer, GOP must solve these 5 disagreements to pass Michigan budget
The Oct. 1 deadline for Michigan lawmakers to pass the $60 billion budget is near. Roads talks have been postponed, but there are more disagreements to solve.
Whitmer agrees to delay road funding talks to finish Michigan budget
The surprising announcement marks a change for Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who previously vowed to veto any Republican budget plan without roads funding. The change seems intended to prevent a government shutdown on Oct. 1.
Michigan Republicans push budget without road deal, a likely no-go for Whitmer
As a government shutdown looms, GOP leaders will begin vetting a budget plan Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer hasn’t signed off on. The two sides are far apart on roads and infrastructure funding and on whether to raise taxes for the effort.
Michigan becomes the first state in U.S. to ban flavored vaping products
The six-month ban bars the sale of flavored e-cigarettes commonly used by young people, including fruity, sweet and mint-flavored products.
Michigan House Dem leader says Whitmer’s 45-cent gas tax is probably dead
Republicans have said the hefty tax hike is dead on arrival. That’s why Democrats should start considering other alternatives to raise $2.5 billion for roads, House Minority Leader Christine Greig said.
Michigan House urges resignation of Inman, who told donors ‘I need money’
State Rep. Larry Inman, who says he’s struggling with addiction, has insisted he won’t step down. New texts submitted to court claim he sought a ‘load’ of money for his votes.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer: Leaders should 'stop playing games' on roads funding
Time is running out for legislative leaders and the governor to come to an agreement on how to spend the state’s nearly $60 billion budget.
Michigan committee approves health warning labels for marijuana
Under the legislation, all cannabis would need to be packaged with a warning against use during pregnancy.
What’s behind the population boom in rural Michigan jails?
A state task force could convene on why rural jails hold a greater share of inmates, with more awaiting trial.
Michigan GOP files new suit to stop independent redistricting commission
State Republican Party’s federal lawsuit argues the structure of the 13-member board violates its freedom of association.
Pressure builds on Michigan Republicans for roads plan to avoid shutdown
Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is portraying GOP legislative leaders as failing to seriously negotiate on how to raise $2.5 billion to repair the state’s roads and bridges. Now, the business community is exerting its own pressure on the GOP.
Short-term rental advocates, foes work toward a deal on laws in Michigan
In the fierce debate over regulation of Airbnbs and other short-term home rentals, Michigan legislators are bringing adversaries to the table, including groups representing local government, hotels and the real-estate industry.
What to expect from the Michigan Legislature this fall
State lawmakers are back in Lansing Tuesday. Here are some of the major priorities the Legislature expects to tackle before the end of the year.
As September looms, no Republican proposal yet to fix Michigan’s roads
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Republican legislative leaders are still meeting to discuss road funding and the 2020 budget, but they haven’t yet reached a compromise. They have until the end of September to pass a budget or risk a shutdown.
High housing costs in Traverse City now hurting more industries in region
Lack of affordable housing is spreading beyond seasonal workers. It’s now hurting manufacturing and healthcare firms trying to attract workers. Local leaders want Lansing to help incentivize developers to build more affordable projects.
Michigan’s Secretary of State promised 30-minute waits — lines are worse
Jocelyn Benson swept into office vowing to serve customers in 30 minutes. But wait times in 2019 are at their highest in five years, up to two or three hours in some branches. Benson says it's the result of long-term underinvestment to be solved with hard structural change.
Check out wait times at your Michigan Secretary of State offices
Lines have gotten longer so far this year, compared with wait times in 2018. This Bridge database allows you to see how times have changed in branch offices near you.