Michigan News & Current Events | Public News Service

The National Library of Medicine reports that many schools are incorporating mental health awareness into their curricula to reduce stigma and help students recognize and manage emotions. (Rido/Adobe Stock)

Monday, April 21, 2025

School mental health report card highlights Michigan’s strengths and gaps

A national report card finds that even with a $150 million budget threat last year, Michigan still made solid progress in staffing up its school …

At the Straits of Mackinac, Line 5 splits into two 20-inch pipelines, running along the lake bed for about 4.5 miles, connecting Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. (CoastalSkyCaptures/Adobe Stock)

Friday, April 18, 2025

MI environmental groups, Tribes decry fast-tracking Line 5 tunnel

Environmental groups across Michigan are pushing back after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers confirmed it will fast-track Enbridge's Line 5 tunnel …

As of October 2024, approximately 37 million children in the United States were enrolled in Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). This represents about 49% of all U.S. children.<br />(Rawpixel.com/Adobe Stock)

Michigan policy expert unpacks impact of proposed Medicaid cuts

According to state data, as Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, face cuts, Michigan's most vulnerable stand to lose …

Research for school-based asthma therapy shows the practice reduced emergency department visits by 49%, urgent care visits by 41%, hospitalizations by 50% and pediatric intensive care unit admissions by 71%. (Seventyfour/Adobe Stock)

MSU study: School asthma care boosts health, cuts costs

About 200,000 kids in Michigan have asthma, and nearly five million suffer from the condition nationwide. Research from Michigan State University …

Rural libraries often serve populations with limited access to transportation and lower incomes, making library services an essential lifeline for these communities. (Rawpixel.com/Adobe Stock)

Library groups fight cuts, warning rural areas in MI and nation will suffer most

Plans to slash funding for the Institute of Museum and Library Services have drawn swift opposition from library and union leaders, as cuts threaten …

Some 18% of farms operated by beginning farmers report sales of $50,000 or more, compared to 26% of farms run by established producers. (DisobeyArt/Adobe Stock)

Lawmakers unite to address farmland access 'crisis,' in MI and beyond

Michigan ranks 15th in the nation for its number of farms, with 44,000, a slight decrease from 2023 and reflects a national decline. Now, beginning …

The DTE Trenton Channel Energy Center is expected to store 220 megawatts, or 880 megawatt hours, of energy. (DTE Energy)

MI clean energy projects await clarity on federal tax credits

Trenton is set to become home to the region's largest battery storage facility but federal policy changes might change how it's funded. The DTE …

In addition to gut health benefits, many researchers say reducing meat consumption and increasing plant-based foods can help lower greenhouse gas emissions, conserve water and reduce the environmental footprint of food production. (NDABCREATIVITY/Adobe Stock)<br />

Studies highlight gut health benefits of plant-forward diets in MI

By Dawn Attride for Sentient.Broadcast version by Chrystal Blair for Michigan News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collabora…

According to an analysis by Energy Innovation, energy consumption could more than double by 2030. (vchalup/Adobe Stock)

Analysis: Repealing clean energy tax credits could raise energy costs in MI, U.S.

A new analysis from the think tank Energy Innovation warned repealing clean energy tax credits could significantly increase energy costs in Michigan a…

Financial pressures play a big role in resident physicians' unionization and strikes. A survey by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) found that 14% of medical residents reported educational debt exceeding $300,000. (New Africa/Adobe Stock)

Doctors, WMed reach agreement, avert potential strike

A strike set to begin today has been averted at Western Michigan University, Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, known as WMed. Its resident …

The Clean Fuel Tax Credit can increase up to $1 per gallon if producers meet wage and apprenticeship requirements. (Kirill Gorlov/Adobe Stock)

What’s next for MI's clean fuels tax credit?

As Congress debates cuts to offset tax-cut extensions, the future of the Clean Fuels Production Tax Credit remains uncertain, with potential impacts …

Nuclear energy experts said a pledge to triple nuclear capacity by 2050 signals a major corporate push toward nuclear energy, with an emphasis on advanced technologies. (ververidis/Adobe Stock)

Big tech backs nuclear expansion: What does it mean for Michigan?

In the wake of plans to reopen the Palisades Nuclear Plant in Covert Township after three years of inactivity, major tech companies have pledged to …

The initiative to build the Line 5 tunnel arose after incidents like a 2018 anchor strike that caused minor damage to the existing pipeline, highlighting vulnerabilities in its current configuration. <br />(Les Palenik/Adobe Stock)<br /><br />

Conflict of interest? MI groups question Trump, Line 5 contractor link

A Michigan nonprofit is among the groups raising concerns about a potential conflict of interest between President Donald Trump and the Line 5 tunnel …

President Donald Trump's executive order firing half the employees at the U.S. Department of Education is expected to lead some states to prioritize charter schools and private school vouchers over public schools. (wavebreak3/Adobe Stock)

MI expert analyzes Trump's Department of Education executive order

With the stroke of a pen Thursday, President Donald Trump's executive order officially fired 1,300 U.S. Department of Education employees. The move …

Lawmakers remain divided on how to address the U.S. Postal Service's financial crisis, with some advocating for government aid and others pushing for structural reforms. (Red Lemon/Adobe Stock)

MI postal workers join national 'Day of Action' to fight USPS privatization

Today, Michigan postal workers join colleagues nationwide, rallying to protect union jobs, and oppose postal privatization. With the theme "U.S. Mail…

Nationally, veterans are 1.5 times more likely to die by suicide than are nonveteran adults, with an average of almost 18 veteran suicides per day in 2021. (flysnow/Adobe Stock)

MI war veteran helps fellow vets access lifesaving resources

Michigan is home to more than 470,000 veterans, yet many have never accessed the military benefits to which they are entitled. The gap in support …

When President Donald Trump took office, the Department of Education had 4,133 workers. Following last week's cuts, that number has dropped to around 2,183. (Prostock-studio/Adobe Stock)

MI educator says federal education cuts hit hard in Hamtramck schools

Cuts to the U.S. education system are expected to create a profound ripple effect on students and staff in Hamtramck's already struggling school …

HBCUs significantly contribute to the national economy. In 2024, the United Negro College Fund reported that HBCUs had a $16.5 billion positive impact. (AS Photo Family/Adobe Stock)

MI study: HBCU students show better mental health, despite challenges

Researchers at the University of Michigan have found that Black students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Predominantly Blac…

The U.S. solar industry employs more than 263,000 workers, with jobs in installation, manufacturing, and research continuing to grow. (rh2010/Adobe Stock)

MI expert predicts future of solar energy amid evolving federal policies

Michigan ranks 26th in the U.S. for total installed solar capacity, while global capacity rose 21% from 2023. However, there are industry concerns …

The senior population is projected to exceed 95 million by 2060, indicating a growing demand for senior housing and related services. (WavebreakMediaMicro/Adobe Stock)

Cities in MI take action to become age-friendly

As Michigan's senior population steadily increases, the need for communities that prioritize their well-being becomes more critical. With nearly 2 …

Attorney for rural MI college expected lawsuits over ‘Dear Colleague’ letter

An attorney for a small, rural Michigan college said she expected lawsuits over the "Dear Colleague" letter schools received last month from the U.S…

Research shows that an animal is abused or neglected every 60 seconds in the United States. <br />(kichigin19/Adobe Stock)

MI lawmakers propose bipartisan bill to prevent animal abuse

A tragic case of neglect that claimed the life of a senior dog in 2021 is now driving change in Michigan, as lawmakers recently introduced "Buddy's …

Countries like the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. are investing in small modular reactors as part of their clean energy strategies, and not without controversy. (VPales/Adobe Stock)

Plan to relaunch MI nuclear plant with new reactors sparks more backlash

Environmental groups are voicing concerns about plans to build the nation's first small modular reactors at the Palisades Nuclear Plant in Covert Town…

Lake algae blooms can release toxins posing serious risks to humans, pets and wildlife, potentially causing illness or even death. (Pete Niesen Photo/Adobe Stock)

MI scientist: Humans, not climate change, to blame for toxic lakes

Each summer, more lake beaches shut down as toxic algae blooms spread across the water and while climate change is often blamed, new research …

Immigration and Customs Enforcement is responsible for operating, running and overseeing detention centers nationwide, and has often been criticized for detainee treatment and conditions. (danielfela/Adobe Stock)

MI teachers union guides colleges on response to ICE inquiries

Following President Donald Trump's executive order lifting Immigration and Customs Enforcement restrictions in protected areas, the American …

The League of Conservation Voters' National Environmental Scorecard has been released annually since 1970. (Sarah Cheriton-Jones/Adobe Stock)

MI congressional delegation shines on environmental scorecard

Michigan's congressional delegation has "aced" the National Environmental Scorecard, earning a perfect 100% in 2024. The League of Conservation …

A concentrated animal feeding operation is a facility where animals have been, are or will be stabled or confined and fed, or maintained for a total of 45 days or more in any 12-month period. (Lost_in_the_Midwest/Adobe Stock)

Group warns livestock manure making MI Great Lakes not so great

A new analysis revealed a staggering amount of livestock waste is flowing through Michigan's waterways each year, equivalent to the sewage of 81 …

Line 5 transports crude oil and natural gas liquids from Canada through Michigan to refineries in the U.S. and Canada. (SNEHIT PHOTO/Adobe Stock)

MI environmentalists alarmed about potential Line 5 emergency permit status

Michigan environmental groups are pushing back as Enbridge's Line 5 tunnel faces "emergency" review, potentially bypassing full scrutiny and public …

As of early 2025, lab-grown meat production in the U.S. remains limited, with low output and availability restricted to select venues. (zapp2photo/Adobe Stock)

MI lawmakers call for labels on lab-grown meat

Some Michigan lawmakers are backing a bipartisan bill to ban labeling lab-grown substitutes as "meat" and require clear ingredient disclosure…

Researchers are developing inductive charging technology that could allow EVs to charge without plugging in, using embedded road or parking pad systems. (Kalyakan/Adobe Stock)

MI keeps EV charging plans on track despite federal cuts

Earlier this month, the Federal Highway Administration stopped new funding for electric vehicle charging stations under the National Electric Vehicle …

Telehealth allows patients to receive medical care, including prescriptions and consultations, remotely through digital communication such as video calls and online portals. (nenetus/Adobe Stock)

How 'shield laws' apply to telehealth abortion providers

By Rebekah Sager for the Michigan Independent.Broadcast version by Chrystal Blair for Michigan News Connection reporting for the Michigan Independent-…

Research found seasonal affective disorder is more common in women and those living in northern regions with long winters. (Maridav/Adobe Stock)

Tips for beating Michigan's winter blues

Michigan winters can be harsh, even for those who love the season's cozy ambience but experts said there are ways to beat the winter blues, which …

According to the site datausa.io, about 60% of theatre workers are white, nearly 13% are Black, 5% are Asian, and less than 1% are Indigenous. (Photo courtesy University of Michigan)

MI university professors address diversity gaps with online makeup tutorials

By Amy Felegy for Arts Midwest.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Michigan News Connection reporting for the Arts Midwest-Public News Service Collabor…

Overall, 12% of U.S. adults have either married or settled down with someone they met online.<br />(frank/Adobe Stock)

Valentine's Day in Michigan: Romance or rip-off?

It is Valentine's Day and romance is in the air, but so is deception. Cybercrime experts warn online scammers are lurking, ready to exploit hopeful …

The administration has begun work to break up the Department of Justice's Environment and Natural Resources Division. (Adobe Stock)

Advocate warns Trump’s EPA cuts will hurt communities, including in MI

The Trump administration is dismantling the EPA's environmental justice office, threatening pollution protections and climate funding for some …

More than 60% of adults in the United States report using prescription drugs, with nearly half taking four or more. (Burlingham/Adobe Stock)

MI lawmakers propose pharmaceutical watchdog legislation

Lawmakers in Michigan have introduced a package of bills designed to lower costs and expand health care access. Senate Bill 3 would create a …

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has emphasized the need for thorough safety evaluations and regulatory approvals before the Palisades plant in Michigan can be safely restarted. (Holtec International)

Palisades nuclear reopening in doubt after Trump’s spending freeze

Environmental groups are sounding alarms as the Palisades Nuclear Plant in Covert Township moves closer to becoming the first decommissioned nuclear p…

Smart agriculture began to emerge in the United States in the early 2000s, with the introduction of GPS technology, sensors and automated systems. (Kaspars Grinvalds/Adobe Stock)

MI professor spotlights 'smart agriculture'

Some experts predict arable land per person will shrink by two-thirds by 2050. To combat it, Michigan students are being trained in "smart" …

In Muskegon's 2023 water report, lead levels in 90% of the tests were at or below 5 parts per billion (ppb), which is far below the action level of 15 ppb. (Dusan Petkovic/Adobe Stock)

Federal funds key to keeping MI cities' water lead free

Federal funds have ensured Muskegon's water is safe to drink, but city leaders there and in other Michigan communities are concerned the funds may …

Although the Michigan Supreme Court upheld the 2018 voter initiatives for paid sick leave and a minimum-wage increase, the current Legislature has the power to reverse those laws, provided legal procedures are followed. (dennis/Adobe Stock)

MI nonprofit opposes bill that opposes paid sick leave, wage hike

A bipartisan nonprofit group in Michigan is opposing pending legislation which would reverse a Michigan Supreme Court ruling, stripping paid sick …

Nationwide, electric vehicle sales are expected to hit 50% within a decade, increasing the demand for charging infrastructure. (Graham/Adobe Stock)

MI invests millions to install EV chargers at multifamily properties

As electric vehicle demand grows in Michigan, a new $5 million program will expand charging station access to places like apartments and condos…

Studies show that mental-health literacy and life skills decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety and help children succeed. (Valerii Honcharuk/Adobe Stock)

Mental health access critical for MI students

Some 125,000 children in Michigan struggle with major depression, which can hinder learning, behavior and relationships, according to a recent survey…

Consumer Reports found rising fuel economy and emissions standards save drivers more than $9,000 per vehicle compared with 2001 models. (noppadon/Adobe Stock) Consumer Reports found that rising fuel economy and emissions standards save drivers more than $9,000 per vehicle compared with 2001 models. (noppadon/Adobe Stock)

Survey: Better fuel economy on Americans' wish list

The Big Three automakers in Michigan have been working for years to improve fuel economy and a new survey from Consumer Reports revealed fuel efficien…

A new bill introduced this year aims to eliminate the cap on annual retirement allowance increases for state employees, potentially increasing pension costs. (pabrady63/Adobe Stock)

MI public safety pension bills in limbo after passing House, Senate

Democrat-backed bills in Michigan addressing pensions, health-care costs and public assistance remain stalled before heading to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer …

Numerous studies have found a link between exposure to long-term air pollution and a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. (24Novembers/Adobe Stock)

Wayne State study links type 2 diabetes and air pollution

A new study from Wayne State University showed breathing in air pollution, especially benzene, can raise the risk of developing type 2 diabetes…

Michigan's new Maternal Health Equity Package laws, authored in part by Rep. Julie Rogers, D-Kalamazoo, further prioritize the health of new parents and their children in a variety of ways, including implementing mental health screenings for new mothers. (Rep. Julie Rogers)

New MI laws tackle disparities in maternal health care

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer recently signed landmark legislation to expand access to essential OB/GYN services across Michigan. Between 2018 and 2022…

Since 2022, nearly 135 million domestic birds in all 50 states have been affected by avian flu. <br />(hedgehog94/Adobe Stock)<br />

As more bird flu cases reach MI, infectious disease expert shares insights

Seven cases of H5N1 avian flu have been reported in Michigan since Dec. 16. The first case was discovered at a poultry facility in Ottawa County…

Enbridge's Line 5 can transport 540,000 barrels per day of petroleum liquids. (Dean Pennala/Adobe Stock)

New report: Enbridge’s Line 5 plan costly, flawed

ADDITION: Comments by Enbridge, received after deadline, have been added. (10:10 a.m. MST, Jan. 22, 2025) A new report says Enbridge's plan to build …

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