Bridge Michigan

Bridge Michigan journalists travel across the state to report firsthand from communities, classrooms, shorelines, businesses, and public meetings. The article seeks funding support to sustain this travel and keep journalism close to the people and places behind the news.

Unemployment recipients in Michigan must now report three work search activities weekly, starting July 19, under new rules part of bipartisan legislation signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The change phases in based on certification schedules, and failing to meet the requirement results in lost benefits. Maximum weekly unemployment benefits will also increase from $530 to $614 starting January 1.

Abdul El-Sayed called to defund the police in 2020 but has since distanced himself from the slogan. The article references Republican meddling in the context of his record.

Ashley Hoath's death at Michigan's Women’s Huron Valley Correctional Facility was ruled a suicide following an autopsy that cited acute aspirin. The facility faces growing scrutiny after four inmate deaths this year.

Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist Matt Mencarini has joined Bridge Michigan as an accountability and data reporter. The appointment highlights his recognition as a Pulitzer-prize winning journalist in his new role.

The Michigan House must send nine blocked bills to Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's desk after the state Supreme Court declined to take up an appeal.

Bridge Michigan's July Issues Watch discussion, led by Deputy Editor Jonathan Oosting and reporters Ron French and Lauren Gibbons, focuses on the state of democracy during an election year. The virtual event continues the Bridge Listens Issues Watch series.

Bridge Michigan is expanding and hiring a deputy editor to oversee coverage and accountability reporting in one of Michigan's fastest-growing regions. The position focuses on west Michigan, as indicated by the reference to Downtown Grand Rapids in the accompanying photo.

Mallory McMorrow suspended her U.S. Senate campaign, leaving the Democratic primary between Haley Stevens and Abdul El-Sayed. Her name remains on the August 4 primary ballot, and she pledged to support the primary winner against Mike Rogers in November.

Mallory McMorrow suspended her U.S. Senate campaign, leaving the Democratic primary between Haley Stevens and Abdul El-Sayed. Her name remains on the Aug. 4 ballot due to already printed absentee ballots. Stevens and El-Sayed both responded to her exit, with Stevens emphasizing her strength as a candidate and El-Sayed criticizing party insiders for favoring Stevens.

Higher prices for ground beef, chicken, and pork chops are expected for Fourth of July barbecues due to ongoing inflation and rising production costs for farmers. The article cites Janelle D. James of Bridge Michigan as the source.

Michigan's July 1 budget deadline is approaching, but the Republican-led state House has canceled sessions, leading to uncertainty about whether a budget will be delivered to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on time. The governor's administration expresses doubt about meeting the deadline.

The article provides a nonpartisan voter guide for Michigan's 2026 elections, addressing how to combat misinformation through verified sources and laws against AI-generated disinformation. It also outlines resources for voters with disabilities, including accessible absentee ballot options and assistance guidelines.

A nonpartisan voter guide for Detroit's 2026 elections provides key dates, contacts, and candidate information to help voters prepare. The guide, created by BridgeDetroit in partnership with Bridge Michigan and Detroit Votes, outlines primary and general election timelines, including absentee and early voting dates, and lists statewide and countywide candidates.

Michigan’s emergency rooms are experiencing strain due to a broken Medicare system, according to an opinion piece. Dr. Brad J. Uren chairs the board of the Michigan State Medical Society.

Michigan's historic flooding has left homeowners deciding whether to sell or repair their damaged homes. Larry Lukich, a Black Lake resident, chose to repair his water-damaged cabin despite offers from buyers.

Michigan Senate Democrats are advocating for stricter regulations on data centers regarding energy use and worker conditions. Sen. Rosemary Bayer emphasized the need for legislation to address potential environmental and community impacts from data centers.

The Michigan Senate passed bills to establish automatic retirement savings plans for private sector employees lacking existing plans. The legislation is led by Democrats.

The article argues that Michigan lawmakers should prioritize a family-centered policy agenda. It is an opinion piece, and the Steelcase Foundation and W.K. Kellogg Foundation are noted as funders of Bridge Michigan, though they had no role in the commentary's selection or editing.

Michigan lawmakers advanced bills to mandate literacy training for teachers through a House committee. The legislation is set to move to the full House for further consideration.

Michigan drug deaths have decreased, but lawmakers are raising concerns about the allocation of opioid settlement funds. Lawmakers expressed worries over how these funds are being spent.

The number of first-time teen drivers in Michigan signing up as organ donors is declining, prompting lawmakers to seek increased education on organ donation, as reported by Bridge Michigan.

Grand Rapids will begin demolishing four dams in downtown to restore the natural flow of the Grand River on July 1, following over a decade of planning. The article questions how the project will prevent lamprey from entering the restored rapids.