Democrats say a 2018 law barring state rules that are stricter than federal regulations undercuts state regulators’ ability to address pollution issues. Business groups fear repealing the measure could have unintended consequences.
Lauren Gibbons
Lauren Gibbons covers state politics and government for Bridge Michigan, tracking the Michigan Legislature, elections and the impact of federal policy on the state. Before joining Bridge, she led Legislature and redistricting coverage at MLive and covered the state Senate for MIRS News. She has covered Michigan politics for more than a decade, winning awards for her political and criminal justice reporting.
A Lansing native who graduated from Michigan State University, Lauren is now based in Ferndale. Her party tricks include telling friends which political districts they live in without looking.
Posted inMichigan Government
19-year-olds could work at Michigan marijuana dispensaries under House bill
A Michigan House bill would let 19 and 20 year olds work in the recreational marijuana industry.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan lawmakers lay tracks on plans to clear back-ups at train crossings
The Michigan Senate unanimously approved a plan to offer grants for getting trains out of the way of road traffic. Some lawmakers believe there’s more to be done.
Posted inTalent & Education
Michigan State shooting update: John Hao attends 76ers game as guest of star James Harden
The latest reliable news about the Feb. 13 shooting that killed three students and injured five others before the suspected gunman killed himself.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan Supreme Court may speed lawsuits for people suing the government
Currently, governments can automatically appeal lawsuits if their immunity claim fails, dragging out litigation for years. Officials say changing course will mean higher costs. But injury victims and others say justice delayed is justice denied.
Posted inMichigan Government
Despite vows, Democrats do little to improve Michigan government transparency
Lawmakers say they still plan to fix public records laws. Transparency advocates say there’s plenty to be done.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan automatic expungement: What convictions qualify, how to check
What to know about what happens now after Michigan became the latest state to employ an automatic expungement system designed to clear old criminal records without a court hearing.
Posted inMichigan Government
Ex-head of Michigan marijuana board pleads guilty to taking $110K in bribes
Rick Johnson admits having a lobbyist hire his wife as a consultant and hiding cash payments in a limited liability company. Some say he’s further proof Michigan’s lobbying laws need reform.
Posted inMichigan Government
Old Michigan laws: seduction, cursing, train drunkenness bans still on books
Michigan lawmakers are diving back into the state’s criminal code to repeal irrelevant or unenforceable bans. There’s a lot they can work with.
Posted inMichigan Government
Alcohol at university stadiums in Michigan? Lawmakers are interested.
Alcoholic drinks aren’t currently allowed at Michigan university sporting events. Some lawmakers are looking to change that.