Michigan Legislature

A suspect who triggered a shelter-in-place order in Oakland County was arrested after a police pursuit. A man in Hamtramck pleaded guilty to kidnapping and criminal sexual conduct charges. Michigan's state budget includes a 2.5% funding increase for schools with a focus on literacy. Residents are advised to prepare for power outages with emergency kits.

Three House Democrats, including Rep. Dylan Wegela and Rep. Regina Weiss, dissented on Michigan’s fiscal year 2027 budget due to concerns over rushed legislative procedures and lack of public input. The budget passed after a 21-hour session, with final documents released just 90 minutes before voting, preventing thorough review and constituent engagement.

The Michigan legislature is advancing a new law to increase affordable housing by adding state funding to federal programs, ensuring 30 years of affordable rent for qualifying homes. The bill will be sent to Governor Whitmer for expected approval, with Senator Jeff Irwin discussing its details on Local 4 Live.

The Michigan Legislature is advancing dam safety reforms and funding for repairs following the 2020 Midland-area dam failures, which led to calls for stronger safety laws.

Michigan lawmakers passed a $75.2 billion fiscal year 2027 budget after an overnight session, featuring a $14.1 billion general fund and $19.8 billion school aid budget. Governor Gretchen Whitmer praised the bipartisan effort, highlighting investments in education, housing, healthcare, and infrastructure, with the budget now awaiting her signature.

The Michigan Legislature missed the July 1 deadline to finalize the 2026-27 budget, with House and Senate leaders continuing negotiations. Lawmakers aim to reach a deal by Friday, but educators criticize delays in funding schools. Progress has been made on resolving budget bills, but a final agreement remains pending.

The Michigan Legislature faces criticism for delaying legislation to restrict synthetic Kratom sales to minors, despite bipartisan support in the House and growing concerns about its opioid-like effects on youth. Over 30 states have implemented restrictions on synthetic Kratom derivatives, but Michigan's bill remains stalled in the Senate Committee on Government Operations.

Wayne County's IRSPA program reduces interest rates on delinquent property taxes from 18% to 6% for eligible homeowners, with 6,455 properties currently enrolled. The program expires on June 30, but Senate Bill 423 could extend it. Homeowners must meet criteria like principal residence status and proof of ownership to qualify.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) has asked a state Court of Claims judge to dismiss a lawsuit from Global Link International, a nonprofit accused of misusing state funds. MEDC argues the lawsuit is untimely and that the $20 million grant was lawfully terminated due to non-compliance and the nonprofit's acceptance of termination. The nonprofit's CEO, Fay Beydoun, faces 16 felony charges related to the grant.

Michigan legislators use taxpayer-funded office budgets to send informational mailers that function as campaign materials. These mailers, labeled 'Prepared by the Michigan Legislature,' feature incumbents' portraits, campaign platforms, and legislative achievements, raising concerns about public funds being used for self-promotion.