The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says “significant” changes are occurring as the federal government prepares to penalize states for food assistance error rates.
Eli Newman
Eli Newman joined Bridge Michigan as a health reporter in May 2025. A lifelong Michigander with a decade of public radio experience, he brings a steadfast commitment to community-focused journalism and deep, impactful reporting.
Prior to joining Bridge, Eli served as assistant news director and editor at WKAR in East Lansing, where he managed the creation of meaningful and thought-provoking multimedia news content for the capital region. Before that, he spent nearly nine years as a reporter at WDET in Detroit, covering breaking news, politics and community affairs — including extensive reporting on the COVID-19 response and other quality-of-life issues that impact public health.
His award-winning work has been recognized by the Public Media Journalists Association, the Michigan Associated Press Media Editors, the Michigan Association of Broadcasters and the Society of Professional Journalists, Detroit Chapter.
Originally from West Bloomfield, Eli earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. He now lives in Detroit.
As a member of the Health Watch team, Eli reports on public health policy, access to care and health equity issues across the state. You can reach him at enewman@bridgemi.com and on social media at @other_eli.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan schools should disclose vaccination rates to parents, lawmakers say
The 11-bill package was introduced to strengthen the state’s authority amid shifting federal policies on childhood immunization.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan to use $38M in opioid funds to expand housing for people in recovery
The $38 million for stable housing comes as the Trump administration shifts away from long-term solutions for the country’s homeless.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Photo ID for diet pills? Michigan bill would ban supplements for minors
The proposed legislation would stop consumers younger than 18 from purchasing weight loss and muscle-building supplements in person and online.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
1 in 6 Michigan moms use weed during pregnancy, study finds
Researchers at Michigan State University found marital status, education, depressive symptoms and adverse childhood experiences are factors contributing to prenatal cannabis use.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Battle rages over Oakland County’s plan to take crisis services in-house
The Oakland Community Health Network plans to bring its adult crisis services in-house, cutting off its longstanding relationship with the nonprofit Common Ground. Critics fear the move will weaken the county’s mental health supports.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Can Michigan ‘make rural America healthy again?’ Hospitals doubt it
The Trump administration set aside $50 billion for rural health. Michigan hospital leaders think the state’s bid for funding has ‘failed’ providers as they brace for federal health care cuts.
Posted inOutdoors Life
Michigan’s firearm deer hunt is here: Key dates, safety tips and a warm start
Michigan’s deer season is heating up as firearm hunters prepare to hit the woods. Here’s what you need to know for opening day.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan stopped collecting abortion data in 2023. GOP wants to resume it
Supporters say the Michigan House bills are a ‘no-nonsense step’ to protect women and limit abortion. Opponents say the legislation singles out the procedure in a hostile political landscape.
Posted inMichigan Government
What shutdown deal means for Michigan food stamps, flight delays, more
As Trump fights full SNAP payments and unpaid air traffic controllers miss work, a Senate-approved deal could soon reopen the federal government. What it means for Michigan.