Initiatives to repeal Michigan’s prevailing wage law and to legalize recreational marijuana may be on the ballot in November. Those backing and opposing each issue defend their sides.
Michigan Government
Citizens cannot do their job of running their government if they don’t know what their public servants are doing.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan governor candidates release tax returns, other assets
Bridge Magazine requested financial data from 19 candidates for governor to shed light on potential conflicts of interest. Here’s a rundown of who responded, and who didn’t.
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Which Michigan governor candidates gave financial info
Bridge Magazine asked the 19 candidates for Michigan governor for tax returns and other financial details. Here’s a checklist noting who replied, and who did not.
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As hacking fears mount, Michigan election security gets middling marks
Good news: Michigan has new voting equipment. Bad news: No system is secure, and state procedures make it harder to catch tampering.
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Michigan’s 2018 infrastructure report card: D+
The state earns a near-failing grade for its roads, water and other infrastructure from civil engineers, with virtually no improvement since 2009.
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Where they stand: Michigan governor candidates’ infrastructure policies
From roads to drinking water, Michigan doesn’t spend enough money on upkeep. What would candidates to succeed Rick Snyder do to make long-term fixes, and how would they pay for it?
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Where Michigan governor candidates stand on ‘red flag’ gun bills
Bridge asked Michigan candidates for governor if they support “red flag” legislation, that would allow police to seize firearms from ag person deemed dangerous before they commit violence.
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Will Florida school shooting nudge Michigan to pass ‘red flag’ gun laws?
A Republican committee chair promises to give a good look to stalled bills to allow relatives and police to petition courts to temporarily remove guns from those who pose risks.
Posted inMichigan Government
Chaos in Traverse City, as county government wrestles with pension debt
Grand Traverse County is searching for its fourth administrator in three years as county workers go to war over benefit cuts. Could the political upheaval be a bellwether for other distressed communities?
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan cities and counties haunted by retiree liabilities
While the political chaos playing out in Grand Traverse County is bizarre, it’s a harbinger of local troubles throughout the state.