Michigan News & Current Events | Public News Service

To qualify for in-state tuition through the Native American Tuition Advantage Program, MSU students must meet at least one of several criteria, including providing a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood, a photocopy of a Tribal ID, and a letter of Tribal Certification or proof of citizenship. (Jorge Ferreiro/Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, October 22, 2024

Michigan State expands access, affordability for Indigenous students

Michigan State University has launched a new program to expand educational opportunities for Native American students across the country. The Native …

Michigan, with 15 Electoral College votes and a highly competitive U.S. Senate race, could be a deciding factor in who becomes president and influence the balance of power in the Senate. <br />(VK Studio/Adobe Stock)

Survey reveals top priorities for MI seniors just ahead of election

A new AARP survey reveals the key issues driving Michigan seniors as the countdown to the election hits 20 days. The results show a neck-and-neck …

According to Climate Power, Michigan leads the nation for Inflation Reduction Act projects, which have resulted in more than $25 billion in new investments across the state. (Focused Adventures/Adobe Stock)

MI city's clean energy plans await federal boost

In the aftermath of devastating hurricanes in other parts of the country, the Michigan city of Ferndale will soon unlock close to $370 billion in …

During the 2022-2023 school year, 289 charter schools opened in the U.S. and in the same school year, 163 closed. Michigan's charter school closure rate ranges from 35% to 44%. (Adobe Stock)

Report: 1 in 3 Michigan charter schools fails

A new report analyzing nationwide school closures shows in Michigan, about one in three charter schools fails. Michigan has the largest number of …

The effects of relational bullying were found no matter the student's race, gender, or socioeconomic status, according to a new study from Wayne State University. (Adobe Stock / AI)

MI Study: Relational bullying harms teens' view of career prospects

October is National Bullying Prevention Month and a new study showed teens bullied in high school tend to become pessimistic about their future…

Detroit Public Schools teacher Rodney Fresh addresses the U.S. House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee on Sept. 25, sharing his concerns about a conservative plan to reshape the federal government, known as Project 2025. (Rep. Adel Auro)

Detroit teacher fears GOP agenda could undermine public education

A Detroit educator recently told a congressional committee he is "terrified" at what a second Trump term as president could bring for America's public…

Michigan ranks among the top four states for new clean energy job creation, behind Georgia, New York and Texas. (Adobe Stock/AI)

MI companies get clean energy grants through Inflation Reduction Act

Four Michigan companies have received $355 million in federal grant funds, expected to create thousands of jobs in the high-tech, clean energy sector…

In September, the Michigan Senate passed SB 401, a bill to expand voter rights and accessibility in the state. The measure is set for a hearing next week in the House Elections Committee. (Adobe Stock)

MSU study: Michigan voter-roll purging could be biased

States are required to conduct regular voter list maintenance to ensure the rolls are accurate. But a new Michigan State University study suggests …

The Michigan Education Coalition stressed key issues facing school districts include school funding, school board accountability, and culturally responsive curriculum. (VeloonaP/Adobe Stock)

MI voters reminded to look beyond the presidency

As Michigan voters prepare for the upcoming presidential election, state officials are urging them not to lose sight of vital local races, especially …

Some of the symptoms of postpartum depression are becoming irritated easily, not sleeping well, not feeling like eating and having a hard time bonding with your baby. (grooveriderz/Adobe Stock)<br /><br />

MI doctor shares hope for moms with 'baby blues'

September is Suicide Prevention Month and a Michigan doctor is sharing hope for mothers struggling with what is often called the "baby blues." One in…

A study published in the journal Frontiers in Sustainable Energy Policy found when nonresidential buildings install solar, they can spur other installations in the area. (Rob Rafson)

MI church lets its 'little light shine' with solar power

By Izzy Ross for Grist.Broadcast version by Chrystal Blair for Michigan News Connection, reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Public News …

The International Day of Peace is observed around the world each year on Sept. 21.<br />(Anna Iluschenko/Adobe Stock)

MI community marks International Day of Peace

This Saturday marks the International Day of Peace and the advocacy group Nonviolent Peaceforce is kicking off a series of family-friendly events in M…

Recipients of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Grant can now access funding to drive financing for thousands of climate-focused and clean energy initiatives. (bilanol/Adobe Stock)

MI included in landmark EPA climate investment

Michigan's most vulnerable communities are receiving federal funding to fight the devastating effects of climate change. It's part of the $27 billion …

According to the U.S. Census Bureau and U.S. Election Assistance Commission, there are approximately 168 million registered voters in the United States. (Framestock/Adobe Stock)

MI voting group energized for National Voter Registration Day

As Michigan gears up for November's pivotal presidential election, the League of Women Voters of Michigan is ramping up efforts to make this National …

Urban districts and districts with the greatest proportions of economically disadvantaged and Black students have more novice teachers. (Reese/peopleimages.com/Adobe Stock)

MI educators sound alarm about the future of teaching

Educators in Michigan and nationwide are voicing concerns politics are demoralizing teachers and discouraging others from entering the profession at a…

Chronic absenteeism often signals a student may be experiencing untreated health needs, transportation problems, mental-health issues or other significant challenges. (Anastasiia/Adobe Stock)

Extreme weather equals 'extreme absence' from MI schools

Chronic absenteeism rates in Michigan schools have significantly declined, yet researchers warn the state's rate overall remains alarmingly high…

Groups such as the National Barn Alliance, Iowa Barn Foundation and Friends of Minnesota Barns<br />spearhead major efforts to preserve America's historic barns and rural heritage in the Midwest and nationwide. (John Wilson)

Preserving MI barns, upholding community solidarity

By Cinnamon Janzer for Arts Midwest.Broadcast version by Chrystal Blair for Michigan News Connection reporting for the Arts Midwest-Public News Servic…

As it travels under the Straits of Mackinac, Enbridge's Line 5 diverges into two, 20-inch diameter, parallel pipelines. (ehrlif/Adobe Stock)

Indigenous water protectors protest aging pipeline

Indigenous water protectors and allies met at Michigan's Straits of Mackinac last week, to spotlight the dangers of the 71-year-old Line 5, deemed …

A key goal of Michigan's Healthy Climate Plan is to limit energy burden from powering and heating homes to not more than 6% of annual income for low-income households. (M.studio/Adobe Stock)

New solar deal brightens Lansing's green future

Lansing residents and businesses can breathe easier following a new 15-year renewable energy deal. The partnership between General Motors and North …

The Middle Class Borrower Protection Act has passed the House and was received in the Senate on July 10, 2023. (Man888/Adobe Stock)<br />

Federal bill aimed to help MI homebuyers draws criticism

Michigan has seen a 10% rise in foreclosures this year. The Middle Class Borrower Protection Act, intended to assist middle-class homebuyers…

If implemented by a new Trump administration, Project 2025 may not only limit the availability of reproductive options but also strengthen legal challenges to existing rights. (Monkey Business/Adobe Stock)

MI mother defends IVF amid ban concerns

Following the signing of the Michigan Family Protection Act by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, concerns remain about a potential federal ban on in vitro …

If you live within a 10-mile radius of a nuclear power plant, officials warn it's important to be prepared in case an emergency occurs. Be sure to know the terms, what to do, and be prepared to follow instructions from emergency workers. Andrew Webb Curtis/Adobe Stock

MI environmental group applauds changes to Fermi 2 permit

Michigan environmental justice group Citizens' Resistance at Fermi Two did not get everything on its wish list. Still, the group is celebrating long-…

According to the American Library Association, some 4,240 book titles were targeted for censorship in 2023, up 65% from the previous all-time high of 2,571 titles in 2022. (Flickr)

Efforts to ban controversial books continue in Michigan libraries

The battle between social conservatives and Michigan libraries to remove certain books from the shelves is becoming increasingly political as the Nove…

The men competing for the open U.S. Senate seat in Michigan are more likely to be self-financing their campaigns than the women. (dark_blade/Adobe Stock)

MI women rise in politics, but funding disparities exist

Michigan women are making gains in state politics, ranking 14th nationally for the number serving in the legislature. However, the latest analysis …

The primary purpose of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 was to mobilize the human and financial resources of the Nation to combat poverty in the United States. (svittlana/Adobe Stock)

MI commemorates 60-year legacy of Economic Opportunity Act

Michigan groups working for social justice are marking a milestone this week: the 60th anniversary of the Economic Opportunity Act. The law is the …

The AARP survey of likely 2024 voters in 40 U.S. House districts reveals a fierce battle ahead for control of this chamber of Congress. (Danny/Adobe Stock)

AARP survey reveals key concerns of older voters in MI

New survey results from AARP shed some light on the top concerns of Michigan seniors and how these issues are likely to shape their voting decisions i…

In 2018, One Fair Wage gained popular support and was on the Michigan ballot. (Jim Vallee/Adobe Stock)

MI minimum wage increase could spark trend

Starting next year, Michigan employers will need to pay workers more than $12 an hour, following a landmark ruling from the state Supreme Court…

The Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, are points of connection between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes for bulk carrier vessels. (ehrlif/Adobe Stock)

Federal agencies, local leaders discuss economic boost for northern MI

Nearly 100 local groups, officials and labor leaders welcomed federal and agency representatives to Sault Ste. Marie for a two-day discussion and …

University of Michigan Medicine is one of the nation's top academic medical centers. <br />(espiegle/Adobe Stock)<br />

MI Medicine unions fight for better pay, staffing

Two labor unions are fighting for their first collective bargaining agreements with the University of Michigan's Michigan Medicine. Workers held an …

To qualify for the Michigan Achievement Scholarship,

MI program unlocks free college education

A new $23 billion education budget plan in Michigan is opening the door for recent high school graduates to attend a community or tribal college…

In March, a study by the EPA and others used aerial surveys to assess hundreds of U.S. landfills. The research revealed significant discrepancies between reported emissions and actual emissions.<br />(Punyawee/Adobe Stock)

MI leads nation in toxic methane emissions from landfills

The Environmental Protection Agency is investigating underreported methane emissions from landfills nationwide, and a recent report names Michigan as …

The Tribal Climate Resilience Annual Awards Program is now accepting applications for 2024. Information is on the U.S. Department of the Interior's website. (Benjamin Simeneta)

MI tribe celebrates funding to combat climate change

It has been less than four months since Michigan's Gun Lake Tribe received grants totaling $4 million for its plans to fight climate change. Its …

The latest project for Rhonda and Kim Theus,

Art breathes new life into pollution-ravaged MI community

By Randiah Camille Green for Arts Midwest.Broadcast version by Chrystal Blair for Michigan News Connection reporting for the Arts Midwest-Public News …

Inflation Reduction Act investments of $500 million will go toward converting a General Motors plant in Lansing to produce electric vehicles. Nearly $158 million will go to a facility in Marysville. (JHVEPhoto/Adobe Stock)

EV industry praises federal investments in Michigan

Michigan's electric vehicle industry is praising the Biden administration for its latest investments in EV manufacturing and innovation. About $650 …

A $1.25 million Department of Education grant will allow Wayne State University to provide 37 scholarships to train adaptive physical educators over the next five years. (Adobe Stock)

Wayne State adapts physical education program for students with disabilities

Wayne State University has received a $1.25 million grant to prepare adapted physical education specialists to serve students with disabilities…

Vice President Kamala Harris spoke at a political event in Grand Rapids, Mich., in early 2024. (The White House/Wikimedia Commons)

VP Harris addresses reproductive rights in Michigan visit

Vice President Kamala Harris focused on reproductive rights at a campaign event in Michigan Wednesday. Her remarks come as President Joe Biden has …

Line 5, an Enbridge pipeline that was built in 1953, runs for 645 miles from Wisconsin, under the Straits of Mackinac, through Michigan to Sarnia, Ontario. (Jorge Moro/Adobe Stock)

MI environmental group responds to pipeline enclosure appeal

A Michigan environmental group is addressing an appeal challenging the state's decision to approve the enclosure of the Enbridge Line 5 pipeline…

A $1 minimum wage increase could reduce suicides among those with a high school education or less by nearly 6%, according to a study funded by the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities. (SpaceOak/Adobe Stock)

MI construction industry responds to high number of worker suicides

In response to an alarmingly high number of suicides among construction workers, Michigan's construction leaders have taken measures to tackle mental …

The 2016 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Montgomery v. Louisiana required the resentencing of 364 Michigan youths serving life without parole, citing Eighth Amendment violations. (ehrlif/Adobe Stock)

MI high court re-evaluates life sentences for young offenders

The Michigan Supreme Court is set to reexamine the life without parole sentences of three men who have spent two decades in prison, convicted of …

Health professionals advised when it is above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, find somewhere with air conditioning or take cool showers or baths. Do not rely on electric fans to stay cool. (Muhammad Shoaib/Adobe Stock)

Tips for a healthy, safe summer in MI

Summertime in Michigan can be fun. However, warmer temperatures pose health risks unique to the season, as people spend more time outdoors. Medical …

A Michigan Healthy Climate Plan recommendation is to meet a goal of 100% clean energy no later than 2050. (pinkrabbit/Adobe Stock)

MI empowers disadvantaged communities for clean energy

The effects of climate change often hit Michigan's most vulnerable communities hardest, prompting state environmental organizations to take action…

In a survey published in Oct. 2022, more than half of adults nationwide said someone in their family had experienced a severe mental health crisis. (SewcreamStudio/Adobe Stock)

Report: Michigan excels in '988' response, falls short on policies

A groundbreaking report found Michigan's performance in responding to 988 calls is strong but also highlighted areas for improvement in financing and …

Over the years, acts of Congress have altered the number of seats on the Supreme Court, from a low of five to a high of 10. Shortly after the Civil War, the number of seats on the court was fixed at nine. (bbourdages)

Voting rights group targets MI in SCOTUS campaign

Polls consistently show Michigan as a critical battleground in this year's presidential election, with more than 8.3 million registered voters in the …

People living with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia can lose track of dates, seasons and the passage of time. (Lightfield Studios/Adobe Stock)

MI Alzheimer's Association urges continued efforts beyond awareness month

June was Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month, but the Michigan Alzheimer's Association says these should be year-round priorities. More than 200,0…

From January to July 2023, about 51,000 dogs were euthanized around the country, a 37% rise from the same period in 2022, largely due to a higher intake of stray dogs and lower adoption rates. (tpap8228/Adobe Stock)

MI dog rescue highlights need for more fosters

June is National Foster a Pet Month, and animal rescues and shelters in Michigan are sending a clarion call for dog lovers to step up and save an …

Around 62% of Michigan households own a pet. Almost 42% of them own a dog and 31% own a cat. <br />(Drobot Dean/Adobe Stock)

MI bills aim to protect animals, one proposing tougher penalties for abusers

Animal lovers and activists in Michigan are celebrating proposed legislation to protect animals and save taxpayers money. Senate Bill 657 and Senate …

Male fertility has been dropping worldwide in the past few decades, especially in countries that produce a lot of chemicals known to disrupt hormones, including PFAS substances. (Adobe Stock)

WSU study reveals PFAS chemicals in men affect their offspring

A groundbreaking report from a team of Wayne State University researchers revealed fathers pass down more than genetics to their children. They are …

The 2024 Summer U.S. Conference of Mayors in Kansas City, Mo., will be under the leadership of its president, Mayor Hillary Schieve of Reno, Nev., and host Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas. <br />(SeanPavonePhoto/Adobe Stock)

MI mayor shifts priorities at conference after mass shooting in his city

Some Michigan mayors are out of the office this week - but still working for their cities. They're at the 92nd meeting of the United States …

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