Research has shown universal background checks can reduce gun violence, but there is no consensus on how well they work.
2023 Michigan Democratic priorities
Starting in 2023, Democrats will control the governor’s office and the Michigan Legislature, both the House and Senate, for the first time since 1984. How will they use all of this power? These are Bridge Michigan stories on their priorities from Nov. 8, 2022, the day after the election, until January 2023, when Democrats take power.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan gun reform: Democrats may pursue red-flag laws. What research says
Nineteen states and Washington, D.C., have laws that allow a judge to order temporary removal of someone’s gun if the judge believes they would use it to hurt others or themselves.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan gun reform: Democrats may consider safe storage laws. What research says
Laws typically require gun owners who live with minors to keep weapons in a secure location. Research is mixed on the impact of the laws.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan Democrats eye other abortion law changes as Prop 3 set to take effect
Proponents of a Michigan constitutional protections for abortion vowed existing limits remain in place. That doesn’t preclude a Democrat-led Legislature from eventually changing them.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan GOP’s reign in Legislature ends with a whimper: No spending deal
Michigan’s outgoing Republican-led Legislature is calling it a year after failing to reach a final spending deal with Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Posted inMichigan Government
Gun control a priority for Michigan Democrats. What studies say about reforms.
Democrats want to pass red flag, safe storage and universal background check laws when they take charge in January. Most research say the measures can reduce gun deaths, but much is inconclusive.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Right-to-Work battle looms in Michigan: Businesses fear repeal by Democrats
Business leaders warn against picking a divisive fight and urge Democrats to work with Republicans to improve Michigan’s business climate. Data is inconclusive on how the anti-union law impacted Michigan.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Businesses to Michigan GOP: Slow minimum wage increase while you’re in power
Michigan’s minimum wage is set to spike to $12 in February. Some business groups want Republicans to rein in the increase before they lose control of Lansing.
Posted inTalent & Education
After bruising Michigan election, what is Betsy DeVos’ education priority?
Over a decade of Republican dominance in Michigan, perhaps no individual shaped Michigan school policy as much as DeVos. Democrats now hope to undo her work.
Posted inMichigan Government
No-fault insurance reform may be in play as Democrats take power in Michigan
Crash victims and their health care providers may get the opportunity to tweak a 2019 overhauling no-fault health law during Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s second term.