Balloon debris kills birds and befouls lakes. Are $800 fines the answer?

Lawmakers can’t muster enough support to require hands-free devices while driving. Distracted driving crashes are up, but opponents object to possibility of license suspensions, points.

The state continues to seek land where large-scale business projects can be built. On Tuesday, it allocated another $6 million — including money for the site near Flint.

YWCA leaders say it would expand access to reproductive health care for marginalized county residents. But two Republican county commissioners and other critics say it shouldn’t be done with tax money.

The Michigan Strategic Fund’s 9-1 vote came after more than two hours of public comment on the proposal and several other agenda items before the board.

Republican officials in Livingston County adopt a ‘Constitutional County’ resolution urging sheriff, prosecutor not to enforce Michigan ‘red flag’ gun control legislation that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is expected to sign into law.

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.

Traverse City nonprofit 20Fathoms is a hub for startups and entrepreneurs in an area known for seasonal job growth. In a Q and A, Executive Director Eric Roberts says the focus on tech growth will boost the ‘baseline economy’ by encouraging higher-paying, year-round jobs.

What can $30 million do to help Southeast Michigan residents? Two philanthropy groups are hoping it will increase college access and graduation and strengthen ties to local employers.