New rules require big data centers in Consumers Energy’s territory to sign long-term power contracts and pay all costs to build transmission lines, substations and other infrastructure needed to serve the energy-hungry facilities.
Posted inMichigan Government
Lee Chatfield’s chief of staff will testify against him in corruption probe plea deal
Rob Minard has pleaded guilty after his wife, Anné, pleaded guilty in late October. Both were close associates of the former state House speaker, who is also facing corruption-related charges.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan House: SNAP help available ‘week to week’ as shutdown continues
Michigan lawmakers aren’t ruling out further food aid dollars as the federal government resumes issuing partial SNAP benefits Saturday.
Posted inMichigan Government
Report: Change how Michigan courts are funded, standardize fines and fees
Michigan trial courts cost about $1.2 billion annually to maintain and are primarily funded by local governments and court fees. A new report from the Michigan Judicial Council recommends a centralized state funding system to relieve pressure on local courts and remove possible conflicts of interest.
Posted inTalent & Education
Unlike Michigan, Indiana got tough on missing school. It’s already working
Cross the border into Indiana, and chronic absenteeism rates are often half of what they are in Michigan. That’s because Indiana noticed a problem and passed laws demanding accountability.
Posted inTalent & Education
As Lansing mulls change, Michigan schools face uphill fight against absenteeism
Educators send letters to parents, host meetings and even pick up students to combat absenteeism as lawmakers consider a stronger approach.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Migrant farm work has boomed in Michigan. The feds just cut workers’ pay
The lower minimum wage for migrant farmhands has some farmers celebrating the cost savings and others wondering if they’ll still be able to attract the workers they need.
Posted inTalent & Education
Alpena schools get tough on absenteeism. Parents don’t make it easy
Educators are warning parents, scheduling meetings and even threatening charges. Many still miss school: ‘It’s like they’re not afraid of the consequences at this point,’ one says.
Posted inTalent & Education
Michigan absenteeism FAQ: Who’s to blame? What are penalties to schools, kids?
Michigan kids miss far more school than their peers. What to know about the crisis, from how many days are required and why the state’s recently retired superintendent is calling for Lansing to intervene.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Five reasons health insurance rates are rising so much in Michigan
From increasing hospital costs, insurance provider consolidation and inflationary pressures, the answer is as complex as the health care system itself.