New $70B state budget helps child care, state police and direct care health workers
The House Republicans also inserted language restricting the ability of the state and local governments to impose mask mandates on K-12, college students and others. The governor's office is researching the issue. Whitmer does not favor that and she could veto those restrictions.
Michigan's budget plan boosts child care, equips state police with body cams, increases nursing home wages
In order to secure the budget deal, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer agreed not to issue COVID-19 vaccine requirements that extend beyond President Joe Biden's rules.
Michigan lawmaker told another lawmaker he hoped her 'car explodes on the way in,' text messages show
In another text, Rep. Steve Marino told Rep. Mari Manoogian “You’re truly the worst human being I’ve ever met. I mean that with the utmost sincerity. Just a parasite.” The two had a previous relationship that ended more than a year ago.
Michigan lawmakers, governor reach state budget agreement
Both parties entered negotiations backed with a big surplus in consumer spending and other coronavirus relief funds, which likely eased what can be a tough legislative process.
State Rep. Steve Marino accused of domestic abuse from fellow lawmaker
"It can happen right here in our legislature, where abuse of power and threats to ruin a colleague's reputation, as well as threats of public shaming, can be used to intimidate fellow members of the legislature," Rep. Mari Manoogian said. "I am asking for privacy as I take steps to ensure my safety while I continue to represent my district and do the work of the people."
State police investigating Rep. Steve Marino for domestic abuse claim made by fellow lawmaker
"I would hope that we find that there’s a misunderstanding, but it sure looks like that there’s a problem here that needs to be addressed," Roe said.
State legislature halts Whitmer emergency powers, but health dept can be used to still issue orders
"I will not be voting yes today. I will be voting hell yes," said State Rep. Jack O'Malley (R-Lake Ann).
Michigan Republicans plan to add ID requirement to absentee ballot applications is dead
Lawmakers in the GOP-led state House received heavy pushback from election clerks and voting-rights advocates about plans to add an ID component to absentee ballots and signature verification at polling places.
Michigan House approves record funding for schools in newest budget
The state's newest budget essentially closes a funding gap for schools, adding an extra $589 per student for most districts. The House approved the measure by a 105-3 vote.
Michigan House votes to spend $10 million to offset losses from auto insurance reform
The state reduced auto insurance rates by 45% in cases of catastrophic injuries in a crash. But that means rehab facilities and in-home care providers will feel the squeeze and less money coming in.
Michigan House approves new financial disclosure and lobbying rules
Michigan is among just two states where lawmakers do not have to file disclosure reports, which can reveal conflicts of interest.
Michigan House passes bill that allows people to expunge first-time drunk driving convictions
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer pocket vetoed the bill last year for an unclear reason, enraging supporters of the legislation.
Business leaders angry over House-approved funding cuts to U-Mich and Wayne State
The proposed cuts would reallocate almost $40 million away from the University of Michigan and $8.2 million away from Wayne State. But funding would rise for seven other schools like Central, Eastern, and Grand Valley.
Michigan Republican wants to create register for fact checkers and journalists
Critics argued the bill introduced by Rep. Matt Maddock violates First Amendment protections for journalists. The bill would fine fact checkers $1,000 every day they don't register.
Michigan lawmaker arrested after driving drunk, rolling vehicle
Rep. Bryan Posthumus was arrested Friday after he drifted off the road, hit a mailbox, and rolled over. His blood alcohol level was 0.13%.
Michigan House approves bill that moves August primary to June
Legislation that would combine May and August elections into one day in June cleared the state House Tuesday. Many Democrats and some Republicans opposed the bill.
Parents of student-athletes blast lawmakers over 'asinine regulations'
"Our students should not be subjected to these asinine regulations that are not ethical, legally questionable and totally ineffective. Our students are not guinea pigs for the state of Michigan," she said.
Michigan House votes to subpoena former health director Robert Gordon over departure
Former health director Robert Gordon abruptly resigned from his post in January. It was later revealed he was paid $155,000 in severance when he left.
Michigan House introduces new transparency bills
Michigan is one of the least transparent governments in the country and only one of two states that don't require lawmakers to report personal finances when voting on bills.
Michigan GOP outlines plans for spending billions in federal Covid aid
The budget plan would send $13 billion to schools, local governments, child care, food and rental assistance, coronavirus testing, and vaccine distribution.