MY AM ADVANTAGE ⚫ STATE NEWS SECTION

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 BY ANA JONES

CCN Staff Writer

LANSING (CCN) — The Michigan Supreme Court sent the Oxford Crumbley case back to the Court of Appeals

The high court in Lansing has ordered a state appeals court to review key elements of the life sentence handed to Oxford High School shooter Ethan Crumbley — keeping alive his legal attempt to appeal his sentence without the possibility of parole.

It's a significant procedural turn that reopens legal debate over one of the nation’s most devastating school shootings, the Michigan Supreme Court has ordered a state appellate court to review critical elements of the life-without-parole sentence handed to  Crumbley. 

The order issued by the state's top court  justices turns down a defense request to remand the case directly to the Oakland County Circuit Court for a full resentencing hearing. Instead, the state’s highest court instructed the Michigan Court of Appeals to examine three procedural and constitutional issues raised by appellate attorneys representing the gunman. 

The appellate panel must evaluate these three matters:

• Ineffective Assistance of Counsel: Whether Crumbley’s original defense team failed to properly direct, prepare, and supervise the testimony of a key mental health expert during pre-sentencing proceedings. 
• Application of Juvenile Sentencing Standards: Whether the trial judge erred when determining that prosecutors met the heavy burden of proof required to justify a life sentence without the possibility of parole for a minor. 
• Waiver of Appellate Rights: Whether statements made by Crumbley in open court during his sentencing allocution constituted a legally binding waiver of his right to appeal his sentence. 

The decision does not vacate Crumbley’s conviction or overturn his sentence. However, it grants his court-appointed appellate team an opportunity to formally challenge the severity of his punishment before a three-judge panel. 

“Because he pleaded guilty, his meritorious legal issues have never received thorough appellate review,” Jacqueline Ouvry, an attorney with the State Appellate Defender Office representing Crumbley, said in a statement to the Oakland PRess following the order. She said: “This decision matters because it’s an opportunity for the court to dig into questions that, until now, have largely gone unexamined.” 

Crumbley was 15 years old on Nov. 30, 2021, when he drew a 9 mm semi-automatic handgun from his backpack inside a hallway at Oxford High School. He fired dozens of rounds down corridors and into classrooms.

Four students were killed — Madisyn Baldwin, 17; Tate Myre, 16; Hana St. Juliana, 14; and Justin Shilling, 17. Seven other people, including six students and a teacher, were wounded.

Crumbley bypassed a trial in October 2022 and pleaded guilty to all 24 counts brought against him by Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald's office. The charges included four counts of first-degree premeditated murder, one count of terrorism causing death, seven counts of assault with intent to murder, and 12 counts of possessing a firearm during the commission of a felony. 

The case marked the first time in U.S. history that a school shooter was convicted of state-level terrorism charges.

Because Crumbley was a minor at the time of the massacre, Michigan law prohibited an automatic sentence of life imprisonment without parole. Under state statutes modified following federal constitutional rulings, prosecutors seeking to put a juvenile offender behind bars for the rest of their life must request a special evidentiary hearing to demonstrate why the defendant is beyond the possibility of rehabilitation.

The pre-sentencing proceedings, commonly known as a "Miller hearing," derive from the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2012 landmark decision in Miller v. Alabama. The high court ruled that mandatory life-without-parole sentences for juvenile offenders violate the Eighth Amendment's prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment. 

Writing for the majority in 2012, Supreme Court justices noted that children and adolescents lack mature judgment, are uniquely susceptible to negative peer influences and family environments, and possess a far higher capacity for reform than adult offenders. While Miller v. Alabama did not ban life-without-parole sentences for juveniles entirely, it established a high legal bar. 

Judges must weigh mitigating factors—including the offender's age, family background, trauma, degree of participation in the crime, and prospects for rehabilitation—before imposing the state's ultimate penalty. Subsequent rulings by the Michigan Supreme Court extended those principles, requiring prosecutors to prove by clear and convincing evidence that a juvenile defendant is among the "rare" individuals whose crimes reflect "irreparable corruption" rather than the transient immaturity of youth.

Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Kwamé Rowe conducted Crumbley’s Miller hearing over several days in mid-2023. In December 2023, Rowe ruled that prosecutors had met their burden, sentencing Crumbley to life in prison without parole.

Now 20, Crumbley is serving his sentence at the Oaks Correctional Facility in Manistee.

A central issue directing the high court's remand centers on the performance of an expert witness called by Crumbley’s original trial defense team. 

During the 2023 Miller hearing, defense lawyers relied heavily on testimony from Dr. Colin King, a forensic psychologist and brain injury expert. King testified that Crumbley suffered from severe depression, anxiety and untreated psychosis at the time of the shooting. He described the teenager as a "feral child" who was chronically neglected by his parents and isolated from human connection. 

King argued to the court that because human brain development — specifically the prefrontal cortex, which governs decision-making and impulse control — continues into a person's mid-20s, Crumbley possessed a distinct potential for long-term rehabilitation. To illustrate the vulnerability of the adolescent brain to physical and psychological trauma, King brought an egg and a glass bowl into the courtroom, dropping the egg to demonstrate physical fragility.

However, King's testimony came under intense cross-examination by prosecutors who highlighted inconsistencies in his reporting. Prosecutors pressed King on his methodologies, pointing out that he had relied on unsourced interviews, examined only a fraction of thousands of available text messages, and lacked knowledge of key facts surrounding Crumbley's behavior prior to the shooting. 

In appellate filings, Crumbley's current attorneys argue that his original trial lawyers failed to adequately prepare, guide and supervise King, rendering his expert testimony vulnerable to devastating cross-examination and ultimately undermining Crumbley's defense.

Beyond trial attorney performance, the state Supreme Court ordered appellate judges to review whether Judge Rowe properly weighed the Miller criteria when concluding prosecutors had met their burden of proof.

Additionally, the appeals court must address the legal effect of Crumbley's own statements in court. During his 2023 sentencing, Crumbley addressed the court directly, expressing remorse and telling the judge that he agreed any sentence handed down would be fair. Prosecutors later argued that Crumbley's allocution amounted to an implicit waiver of his rights to challenge the outcome on appeal. 

Appellate defenders dispute that claim, asserting that a minor's emotional statement at a sentencing hearing can't substitute for a formal, legal waiver of constitutional appeal rights.

The lower appellate panel had previously rejected Crumbley’s appeal requests in May 2025 in a brief, one-sentence order stating the application was denied "for lack of merit in the grounds 

presented." Thursday's order from the state Supreme Court forces the appeals court to re-examine those arguments in detail. 

The legal proceedings surrounding the Oxford High School shooting have drawn national attention, due in part to the unprecedented criminal prosecution of Crumbley's parents, James and Jennifer Crumbley. 

In early 2024, in separate trials, both parents were convicted of four counts of involuntary manslaughter. Prosecutors argued that the parents ignored their son's severe mental health warning signs and bought him the gun used in the attack as an early Christmas present. 

Both James and Jennifer Crumbley were sentenced to 10 to 15 years in state prison. Their subsequent motions for new trials were denied. 

The Michigan Court of Appeals has not yet set a timeline for oral arguments or a written decision regarding Ethan Crumbley’s remanded appeal.

 BY GARY ANDERSON

CCN Staff Writer

(CCN) — Here are brief summaries of top news headlines from around the state of Michigan over the last 10 days:

TAXPAYERS who requested an extension to file their state individual income tax returns haveuntil Thursday to file a complete and accurate return, according to the Michigan Department of Treasury. State individual income tax returns due under an extension must be received on or before Oct. 15, 2026. Returns can be sent through the U.S. Postal Service or e-Filed. For the convenience of taxpayers, the extension deadline is the same as the Internal Revenue Service.  “Taxpayers should file a state individual income tax return if they haven’t done so,” said Deputy State Treasurer Kavita Kale who oversees Treasury’s Revenue Services programs. “Some individuals who haven’t filed may be eligible for a refund through available tax credits. If you owe taxes and have hesitated to file and pay, please contact us so we can discuss your options.”

LANSING POLICE  held a press conference earlier today to announce a fifth death on the city's Lansing River Trail. All are believed to be overnight assaults although autopsy reports are not all completed. Chief Rob Backus told the media this morning that all the victims were homeless white males and similarities in the deaths mean they could be victims of a serial killer. The men killed range in age from 22 to 70 and all were believe to be sleeping when killed. The only difference,, according to Chief Backus, was that one case involved a stabbing and the others were the result of what appear to be severe beatings. The first death happened in October 2025 and the series of homicides in 2026 began on July 9 and continued into September.

MACOMB COUNTY PROSECUTOR Peter Lucido sent out a news release thanking a jury for his guilty verdict on a grisly murder case, saying  "I am very thankful to the jury for delivering justice to our victims and their families." The comment came after a Clinton Township man was convicted a second time in the 2013 stabbing deaths of a woman and her 11-year-old daughter. Henry Johnson had won a new trial after alleging he had ineffective assistance of counsel in the first trial. A Macomb County Circuit Court jury found the 41-year-old man guilty on two counts of first-degree, premeditated murder and two counts of felony murder in the July 2013 deaths of Tina Geiger and Kristine “Krissy” Geiger in their Clinton Township apartment. Johnson and his brother, Tony Johnson, were previously convicted in December 2022.

 SAGINAW COUNTY'S  Bridgeport-Spaulding school district has been hit with a lawsuit by its former Superintendent, Mark Whelton. He filed it in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, alleging that the district and four school board members violated his employment contract and constitutional rights when the board majority forced him out in March 2026. after serving 8 years. Court files show the lawsuit contends "When Board members engaged or pursued courses of action that Mr. Whelton believed to be improper or violative of law, policy, and/or procedure, he opposed and/or refused to facilitate the furtherance of actions he believed to be unlawful or improper." Whelton is the  new superintendent of Clintondale Community Schools.

A POLICE OFFICER  in Farmington HIlls was acquitted after an  Oakland County Circuit Court jury trial  of alleged sex crimes. Michael Rybinski had been put on administrative leave after charges were filed for allegedly attacking a female cadet The 32-year-old cop from Wixom faced one count of third-degree criminal sexual conduct and three counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct for an alleged assault that reportedly happened outside of work on June 19, 2025. The Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office had alleged that an assault happened in the police cadet’s car after she agreed to give Rybinski a ride home. He was charged with groping, forcibly fondling and trying to kiss her despite the cadet alleging that she repeatedly told him to stop. Following the verdict, Police Chief John Piggott issued a statement to The Oakland Press, saying, "He may now seek reinstatement to his position as a police officer with the City of Farmington Hills in accordance with his rights under the collective bargaining agreement and the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards."

BAY CITY SUSPECT NABBTED: A heavyset black woman who was wanted in a recent early morning robbery at a 7-Eleven store in the City of Bay City. She came into the story at about 6:30 AM with a rifle and demanded money. The incident was captured on a surveillance video camera and distributed online and to local TV stations.

 BY ANA JONES

CCN Staff Writer

GREEN LAKE TOWNSHIP (CCN) —  A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon crashed Thursday afternoon in rural northern Michigan. 

The crash came during a training exercise, prompting an evacuations as the pilot ejected safely and was hospitalized in stable condition, military and local officials told our affiliate USA Radio News and  two Traverse City TV stations — WPBN TV and WFTU TV who are the network affiliates for  CBS and ABC  to cover Traverse City, Cadillac and the rest of the northern Michigan region in the lower peninsula as well as the U.P.

The single-engine fighter jet went down shortly around 2 pm in Green Lake Township, about 10 miles southwest of Traverse City, near Interlochen State Park in Grand Traverse County.

The aircraft was assigned to the Texas Air National Guard’s 149th Fighter Wing out of Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland. The jet was operating out of the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center in eastern Northern Michigan as part of a joint training operation called Northern Cactus. 

Emergency management officials ordered a temporary one-mile evacuation zone around the crash site, citing hazardous materials associated with military aircraft wreckage. F-16 jets carry hydrazine, a highly volatile and toxic liquid fuel used to power emergency electrical and hydraulic systems. 

The pilot, who was the sole occupant on board, ejected prior to impact and was located conscious by first responders. The airman was taken to Munson Medical Center in Traverse City for medical treatment. Military officials declined to publicly release the pilot's identity to the TV stations, citing U.S. Department of Defense privacy policies. 

"The pilot ejected safely and is currently in stable condition," said Master Sgt. Agustin Salazar, a spokesperson for the 149th Fighter Wing. "Safety and emergency response personnel are working with local authorities to secure the site." 

Witnesses near the rural site described to the TV stations hearing a loud roar followed by multiple explosions. A large column of thick black smoke visible for several miles rose above nearby fields and tree lines. 

Fred Sobeck, 65, a nearby resident, said he drove toward the area after hearing what sounded like a massive collision down the road. "We saw big, billowing black smoke and couldn't tell what it was at first," Sobeck said. "When I drove up, you could see plane debris scattered in the field and a big fireball. Police told everyone to clear out because secondary explosions were still happening." 

Local emergency managers confirmed to the local TV stations that despite the wreckage scattering near a residential lot and a camper trailer, no ground structures were destroyed and no civilian injuries were reported.

Our affiliate USA Radio News aired audio on CCN's Metro Flint News/Talk Radio and Metro Flint Radio One newscast from regional air traffic control captured moments before the incident indicated that the flight crew was investigating a possible bird strike that caused an engine failure, according to initial flight transmissions. Military officials have not officially confirmed the cause of the crash, stating that a formal Air Force Safety Investigation Board will analyze the flight data and wreckage. 

The F-16 Fighting Falcon has been a mainstay multirole fighter jet for the U.S. military since entering service in the late 1970s. Air Force safety records classify crashes involving the complete loss of an aircraft as Class A mishaps. 

Military environmental containment units alongside local fire departments remained on the scene Thursday evening to secure the crash perimeter and manage hazardous material cleanup.

BY GARY ANDERSON

CCN Staff Writer

WASHINGTON D.C. (CCN) —  A group of Republican lawmakers from Michigan is demanding that the Canadian government implement more aggressive wildfire prevention strategies following a series of blazes that have sent hazardous smoke across the Great Lakes and the northeastern United States. 

In a joint letter addressed to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, the representatives argued that current forest management practices in Canada are insufficient to protect the health and economic interests of American citizens.

The letter — signed by U.S. Representatives Jack Bergman, John James, Lisa McClain and John Moolenaar — comes as air quality alerts have become a recurring reality for millions of residents in Michigan. The lawmakers expressed frustration over what they characterized as a lack of progress since similar issues arose in previous years, stating that the environmental impact has reached a critical threshold.

"American lungs are paying the price for Canadian inaction, year after year," the representatives wrote in the letter. "Sovereignty comes with responsibility, and the responsibility to prevent a foreseeable disaster from crossing into another country’s airspace has not been met."

The lawmakers specifically pointed to a perceived underinvestment in proactive forest management techniques, such as mechanical thinning, fuel reduction, and prescribed burns. They also called for more stringent enforcement against arson.

According to the delegation, Michigan hospitals have seen an uptick in patients — particularly children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions - seeking treatment for smoke-related ailments.

In addition to health concerns, the lawmakers highlighted the economic toll on the region. The thick haze has periodically obscured major landmarks, such as the Mackinac Bridge, and forced the cancellation of outdoor events, impacting Michigan’s tourism and recreation industries during the peak summer months.

The letter warns that if Canada does not take measurable steps to mitigate the risk, the United States may be forced to act unilaterally. The representatives suggested that U.S. agencies could explore direct involvement in cross-border fuel reduction and firefighting capacity to protect American communities.

 Representative Lisa McClain noted that she has already engaged in discussions with the White House and Ambassador Pete Hoekstra to evaluate potential policy options.

Canadian officials, however, have pointed to the unprecedented scale of the wildfire seasons and the role of global environmental shifts. Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the criticism by emphasizing that climate change is a shared international responsibility. In recent statements, Carney highlighted Canada’s investments in clean energy and suggested that all nations must focus on reducing carbon emissions to address the root causes of the intensifying fire seasons.

Experts in climatology and wildfire management have noted that many of the active fires are located in remote boreal forests, where human intervention is historically limited and fires are often ignited by lightning. While forest thinning can be effective in some regions, specialists argue that the extreme heat and dry conditions driven by climate change remain the primary factors behind the increased frequency and intensity of the blazes.

The friction over wildfire management adds a new layer of complexity to the U.S.-Canada relationship, which has long relied on mutual aid agreements for firefighting resources. 

As smoke continues to drift across the border, the Michigan delegation maintains that apologies are no longer sufficient, calling for a bilateral approach that prioritizes immediate preventative action over reactive suppression.

(Related Story Below)

BY GARY ANDERSON

CCN Staff Writer

(CCN) — Here are more brief summaries of recent top news headlines from around the state of Michigan :

STATE POLICE TROOPERS confiscated guns from two motorists who did not have a license to carry concealed weapons, according to a news release. An out-of-state driver from Kansas was arrested in one incident when a loaded pistol was found inside the cab of his semi truck during a three-vehicle accident investigation on I-696 near Dequindre Road in the City of Warren. The second arrest came after a speeding stop on northbound I-75 near Crooks Road in the city of Troy. A Sterling Heights man was allegedly traveling 20 miles per hour over the posted speed limit in a construction zone and a trooper discovered a loaded gun in the vehicle while learning that the driver also did not have a See pee L permit to legally possess the gun. Both drivers were arrested at the scene and taken to the Oakland County Jail.

BY ANA JONES

CCN Staff Writer

KENT COUNTY (CCN) —  A stunning indictment came down Wednesday (Jan. 28, 2026) as Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Charlie LeDuff was doing his weekly podcast heard by more than 50,000 listeners across Michigan.

LeDuff's three-year fight for justice culminated with a criminal indictment by a prosecutor in Kent County. It came months after Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel ignored an embezzlement and abuse case involving an elderly woman against a former State Democrat Party official, Tracy Kornack who served in a high-profile position as the Treasurer. 

The lawyer from the west side of the state is described by journalist LeDuff and GOP politicians in  Lansing as a close friend of both AG Nessel and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, both fellow Democrats. 

 Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker's office notified LeDuff during Wednesday's filming of his podcast that he had authorized felony charges of embezzlement against a vulnerable adult.

A news release from Prosecutor Becker's office said Kornack was charged with three felony counts. Two were for embezzlement and one was for false pretenses.

Belmont attorney Kornak was not charged with any of the abuse allegations outlined in front of the State House Oversight Committee. Evidence from the AG's office was presented during a nearly three-hour hearing in mid-December.

Nessel had declined to prosecute the case.

LeDuff's attention since 2022 on the alleged abuse and theft case eventually landed it before the House State Oversight Committee in the state legislature, leading to the charges despite Nessel doing nothing to her friend who allegedly stole thousands of dollars from the late Roseene Burd who she had authority over as a court-appointed guardian over the wealthy woman's care and finances. The elderly woman's hand-written note to a probate court employee was described as “a cry for help” over her concerns that her guardian was mishandling her finances.

Burd passed away last April at age 89.

Guardians are appointed by probate court judges in Michigan.

CCN has been investigating alleged widespread theft in probate court cases across our state as part of a series for its national program known as The America Crusaders.

An indictment was reported last week as "looming" by The Detroit News against a Detroit judge over $550,000 missing from one elderly person's bank account. CCN has discovered allegations about dozens of other cases across the state where judges and their conspirators have combined to steal thousands of dollars from unsuspecting elderly people who come under the controls of the probate system.

Probate judges often answer to nobody, and it's a problem that has caught the attention of Senator Ruth Johnson of Groveland Township.

Katie Steffes, a Grandville attorney whose practice is focused on probate, family and civil law and who has been representing Kornak in an ongoing investigation of her conservatorship in Allegan County Probate Court, did not immediately return a phone message Jan. 28 seeking comment. In Michigan, conservators are appointed by probate judges.

The House Oversight Committee has been investigating why Nessel's office closed an investigation into Kornak in 2022 without taking any action after allegations were raised in a column in The Detroit News about alleged improper billings by Kornak related to an insurance company and an assisted living facility. The committee held a hearing related to Kornak and Nessel as recently as Jan. 27.

Jay DeBower, chairman of the state’s House Oversight Committee that investigated in mid-December why a conflict-of-interest involving Nessel was allowed to stand, has said Nessel belongs in prison for covering up her friend's criminal actions in the case. 

Kornack even served on Nessel’s transition team when she was first elected to office.

 Burd died in April 2025 and LeDuff now says justice for the family is a prison sentence for Kormack and prison for Nessel. When asked when he thought Nessel might be indicted, LeDuff told CCN, "Patience."

LeDuff is the host of the No BS News Hour, an independent podcast based in Detroit.

He also works for an online publication known as The Michigan Enjoyer.

LeDuff is a Detroit area native who won a Pulitzer Prize at the New York Times, then returned home to work for the Detroit Free Pres s and Detroit News in addition to becoming an Emmy  Award winning television reporter with Fox 2 Detroit.

He most recently left the Detroit News when fired in October 2023 as a columnist. The incident included an incident when AG Nessel was mentioned in a tweet by LeDuff who was promoting an upcoming Tuesday column. He used a  vulgar, coded phrase aimed at her, saying, “See you next Tuesday” a backronym teens use for the word “c**t.” 

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is a photo of journalist Charlie LeDuff.  

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Michigan News Connection Staff Writer

(PNS) — The U.S. Supreme Court is weighing whether Enbridge waited too long to move Michigan’s Line 5 lawsuit from state court to federal court — a procedural fight in the state’s long-running battle over the pipeline under the Straits of Mackinac.

The dispute is part of a broader fight over Enbridge’s plan to build a four-mile tunnel for its aging Line 5 pipelne, an $800 million project the company said would be safer for the Great Lakes. Opponents warned a potential spill would be devastating.

Sonia Sotomayor, an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, pressed Enbridge during arguments on Tuesday (Feb. 24, 2026) about why they feel the case needs to be in federal court.

"You call it a right to have a federal court try the case," Sotomayor said. "You have a right to have recovery for a loss or potential loss. The forum where that right is adjudicated is not lost. You have a forum. You have the state court."

Enbridge contended the dispute affects energy supplies for millions of people and should be heard in federal court, while the state said the law confirms the case should stay where it was filed. The High Court ruling will not decide the tunnel’s fate but it could shape where and how quickly Michigan’s case moves forward.

Enbridge also faced sharp questions about why the case was not moved sooner and what, exactly, changed along the way.

John Bursch, attorney for Enbridge, told the court the picture shifted after Canada invoked a treaty from 1977, aimed at keeping oil and gas moving across the U.S. / Canada border.

"I don't think it was clear to anyone that it was necessarily a federal jurisdiction at the outset of the state court case that the attorney general filed," Burch acknowledged. "But by the time that the governor terminated the easement and then Canada invoked the treaty, that really changed the lay of the land."

Michigan argued Enbridge missed the 30-day deadline and warned a late move to federal court would weaken the states’ power to enforce their own laws. Enbridge countered it is an unusual case with national and international implications.

 The justices are expected to rule on the case later this year.

PHOTO CAPTION: Enbridge’s Line 5, built in 1953, runs 645 miles from Superior, Wisconsin, to Sarnia, Canada.  — PNS PHOTO

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Michigan News Connection Staff Writer

(PNS) — With broad bipartisan support, the Michigan House has overwhelmingly approved a bill which would ban cellphone use during classroom instruction.

The proposal includes some exceptions but lawmakers said they would be very infrequent. The bill would also allow school districts to adopt stricter policies if they choose.

Sen. Dayna Polehanki, D-Livonia, sponsored the Senate version of the legislation and helped craft the emergency provisions.

"There is a very important carve-out for emergency situations, that I made sure was in there," Polehanki explained. "There are also exceptions for things like medical devices, district-issued laptops, some lessons."

The measure, introduced in the House by Rep. Mark Tisdel, R-Rochester Hills, passed by a wide margin after the Senate approved the package on a 34-1 vote. If signed into law, it would prohibit smartphone use during instructional time for all K-12 public school students, starting in the 2026-2027 school year.

Supporters pointed out strong, cross-party backing shows lawmakers, educators and parents are united in wanting classrooms to be safer and more focused for kids. Polehanki, a former high school teacher and now chair of the Senate Education Committee, added she made a statement on the Senate floor letting her colleagues know she is happy they are on the same page.

"I was so proud that we were able to work across chambers, across the aisle with all our colleagues, very swiftly," Polehanki emphasized. "It wasn't unanimous, but it was pretty close. That's exciting for me."

The next stop for the two-bill package is Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s desk, who has publicly pushed for limits on classroom cellphone use, citing concerns about distraction, student focus and mental health.

 PHOTO CAPTION — The Pew Research Center says 72% of U.S. high school teachers tell researchers that cell phones are a major distraction in the classroom.  — PNS PHOTO

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Michigan News Connection Staff Writer

(PNS) — Following one of the busiest air travel periods of the year, Michigan lawmakers are weighing legislation that could change how jet fuel is produced and used in the state.

The proposal would create a tax credit to expand sustainable aviation fuel, which advocates say is a cleaner alternative made from renewable sources such as corn, soybeans, or waste products.

Kent Hartwig is the director of state government affairs for GEVO, a company working to commercialize the sustainable aviation fuel industry.

"Markets and policies like this give us the ability to build production," said Hartwig. "It sends a signal to investors that there’s long-term policy for folks to provide capital for us to build these SAF plants."

Hartwig said the tax credit could help lower the upfront costs of building new fuel facilities, giving more incentive to investors. The legislation has already passed the Senate and is awaiting action in the House.

Detroit Metro Airport is one of the busiest hubs in the country, especially this time of year, serving millions of passengers. Hartwig said the state is a key player for SAF legislation.

"Delta has been a particularly interested party in working with us," said Hartwig. "So, the Detroit airport, which serves a significant amount of Delta’s passengers, is very important to us."

He added that Michigan’s combination of farm-based feedstocks and proximity to major airports, like Detroit Metro, also makes it an attractive location for future SAF production – and speaking of location, Hartwig pointed out that for those who live in communities near the airport and for travelers, the issue isn’t just where flights are headed.

"We have an improved emissions profile," said Hartwig. "The production process that we have doesn’t include sulfur or aromatics, and these are problematic pollutants for the community."

PHOTO CAPTION: SAF production and use in the United States are small but growing: annual SAF production and imports in the nation rose from just 5 million gallons in 2021 to about 93 million gallons through September 2024.  — PNS PHOTO

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Michigan News Connection Staff Writer

(PNS) — As Michigan looks ahead to the new year, state environmental officials are laying out priorities for protecting the water.

Michigan borders four of the five Great Lakes and has more than 11,000 inland lakes, along with thousands of miles of rivers and streams. The waters supply drinking water, support recreation and tourism, and help drive the state’s economy.

A newly released 2025 State of the Great Lakes Report from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, offers a roadmap for what’s next.

Jeff Johnston, public information officer for the department, said a highlight focused on the growing concern around PFAS contamination.

"Michigan has a task force, essentially, of several agencies who’ve dedicated their combined efforts to looking at PFAS and how to find it and what to do about it when we find it," Johnston explained.

The report also highlighted long-term cleanup efforts across the state, including the recovery of Muskegon Lake after decades of pollution, along with ongoing work to control invasive species threatening native fish and wildlife.

Rather than only focusing on the challenges, the report looked at how progress happens. Johnston stressed collaboration is a consistent theme throughout the review.

"Many of the articles in the report deal with the cooperative efforts of government, business, industry, nonprofits, individuals and academia," Johnston outlined.

The Great Lakes hold about 21% of the world’s surface fresh water and as Michigan heads into 2026, Johnston added their size and significance put the work ahead into perspective.

"Michigan has 3,200 miles of Great Lakes shoreline," Johnston pointed out. "This is something that I think Michiganders care about deeply, and we really want to preserve it for future generations."

 PHOTO CAPTION — Michigan has more freshwater shoreline than any other state in the nation, according to state environmental officials, according to the 2025 State of the Great Lakes Report.  — PNS PHOTO

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Michigan News Connection Staff Writer

(PNS) — Imagine your own car has been spying on you — tracking data on your driving habits that insurance companies can use to raise your rates. That’s what the Federal Trade Commission says happened to drivers of General Motors vehicles with the OnStar Smart Driver feature.

Now the Commission has ordered the data transfers stopped.

Lena Cohen, a staff technologist for the nonprofit Electronic Frontier Foundation, said some drivers had no idea they'd enrolled in this feature because car salespeople signed them up without telling them to get an enrollment bonus.

"But even drivers who did realize they'd signed up for these OnStar features didn't realize the extent of the data they were sharing and what that data was being used for," Cohen said.

GM has said it has shut down the Smart Driver program, unenrolled all users and cut ties with data brokers LexisNexis and Verisk. Under the FTC order, GM and OnStar are barred for five years from sharing certain data with consumer reporting agencies. For the next 20 years, the company must get clear consent before collecting or sharing vehicle data, give drivers access to their information and allow them to opt out or delete it.

Cohen urged Congress to pass strong data privacy laws that apply to all car companies.

"It's too easy for companies to bury their data collection and sharing practices in long terms of service that no one actually reads," she said, "and all car makers should be forced to get people's explicit consent before engaging in invasive data-sharing practices like these."

You can find out what data your car is set up to collect at vehicleprivacyreport.com. It is also possible to request a report from Lexis Nexis and Verisk to see what information they have about you.

  PHOTO CAPTION — A national survey by the data-privacy firm Syrenis found that 82% of connected-car drivers don’t realize how much data their vehicles collect, and 79% aren't aware of what's shared with third parties.  — PNS PHOTO

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Michigan News Connection Staff Writer

(PNS) — Following one of the busiest air travel periods of the year, Michigan lawmakers are weighing legislation that could change how jet fuel is produced and used in the state.

The proposal would create a tax credit to expand sustainable aviation fuel, which advocates say is a cleaner alternative made from renewable sources such as corn, soybeans, or waste products.

Kent Hartwig is the director of state government affairs for GEVO, a company working to commercialize the sustainable aviation fuel industry.

"Markets and policies like this give us the ability to build production," said Hartwig. "It sends a signal to investors that there’s long-term policy for folks to provide capital for us to build these SAF plants."

Hartwig said the tax credit could help lower the upfront costs of building new fuel facilities, giving more incentive to investors. The legislation has already passed the Senate and is awaiting action in the House.

Detroit Metro Airport is one of the busiest hubs in the country, especially this time of year, serving millions of passengers. Hartwig said the state is a key player for SAF legislation.

"Delta has been a particularly interested party in working with us," said Hartwig. "So, the Detroit airport, which serves a significant amount of Delta’s passengers, is very important to us."

He added that Michigan’s combination of farm-based feedstocks and proximity to major airports, like Detroit Metro, also makes it an attractive location for future SAF production – and speaking of location, Hartwig pointed out that for those who live in communities near the airport and for travelers, the issue isn’t just where flights are headed.

"We have an improved emissions profile," said Hartwig. "The production process that we have doesn’t include sulfur or aromatics, and these are problematic pollutants for the community."

PHOTO CAPTION: SAF production and use in the United States are small but growing: annual SAF production and imports in the nation rose from just 5 million gallons in 2021 to about 93 million gallons through September 2024.  — PNS PHOTO

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Michigan News Connection Staff Writer

(PNS) — As Michigan looks ahead to the new year, state environmental officials are laying out priorities for protecting the water.

Michigan borders four of the five Great Lakes and has more than 11,000 inland lakes, along with thousands of miles of rivers and streams. The waters supply drinking water, support recreation and tourism, and help drive the state’s economy.

A newly released 2025 State of the Great Lakes Report from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, offers a roadmap for what’s next.

Jeff Johnston, public information officer for the department, said a highlight focused on the growing concern around PFAS contamination.

"Michigan has a task force, essentially, of several agencies who’ve dedicated their combined efforts to looking at PFAS and how to find it and what to do about it when we find it," Johnston explained.

The report also highlighted long-term cleanup efforts across the state, including the recovery of Muskegon Lake after decades of pollution, along with ongoing work to control invasive species threatening native fish and wildlife.

Rather than only focusing on the challenges, the report looked at how progress happens. Johnston stressed collaboration is a consistent theme throughout the review.

"Many of the articles in the report deal with the cooperative efforts of government, business, industry, nonprofits, individuals and academia," Johnston outlined.

The Great Lakes hold about 21% of the world’s surface fresh water and as Michigan heads into 2026, Johnston added their size and significance put the work ahead into perspective.

"Michigan has 3,200 miles of Great Lakes shoreline," Johnston pointed out. "This is something that I think Michiganders care about deeply, and we really want to preserve it for future generations."

 PHOTO CAPTION — Michigan has more freshwater shoreline than any other state in the nation, according to state environmental officials, according to the 2025 State of the Great Lakes Report.  — PNS PHOTO

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Michigan News Connection Staff Writer

(PNS) — Millions of Americans with serious health conditions relied on the credits for affordable health insurance.

Victoria Sylvester, a small business owner and cancer survivor in Traverse City, is one of them.

"As somebody that really absolutely has to have health care, has to have insurance, it's very stressful to think that I may lose my insurance or have terribly high premiums," Sylvester explained. "I already had an increase in my deductible."

Those who back the cuts warned continuing expanded credits indefinitely could strain the federal budget and crowd out funding for other priorities.

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Michigan News Connection Staff Writer

(PNS) — In the aftermath of last week's federal approval to restart the Palisades Nuclear Power Plant  in Covert Township, the debate over its future is heating up.

Palisades is expected to generate more than 800 megawatts of electricity, enough to power 800,000 Michigan homes. Holtec International, which owns the site, calls it a historic milestone – it's the first U.S. nuclear plant to return to operations after being decommissioned.

But Kevin Kamps, radioactive waste specialist at the nonprofit Beyond Nuclear, warned that long-delayed safety issues at the site have not been addressed.

"One example would be a license amendment request by Holtec to further delay implementation of fire protection upgrades that have been delayed at Palisades for a half century," said Kamps, "and they want to delay them for years or decades to come."

Holtec maintains the restart process is safe, pointing to strict Nuclear Regulatory Commission oversight, active emergency plans, and recent Federal Emergency Management Agency-graded safety drills as proof.

Kamps said Beyond Nuclear will continue to file appeals and prepare for federal court challenges.

Right now, nuclear power already supplies about 30% of Michigan’s electricity. Kamps stressed that decades-old equipment at Palisades and thin federal oversight puts the Great Lakes at an existential risk.

"There’s a very high likelihood that a steam generator tube will rupture," said Kamps. "If it’s a cascading failure of enough tubes all at once, that is a pathway to reactor core meltdown. My hope and prayer is that I'm wrong. But, I fear that I might not be."

As legal and regulatory battles play out, Holtec maintains Palisades will ultimately deliver clean, reliable power. They say it will also support nearly 600 on-site jobs and hundreds more through local suppliers.

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is Holtec International which expects a valuation exceeding $10 billion for its company in Colvert Township by the Palisades restart. — PNS PHOTO

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Michigan News Connection Staff Writer

(PNS) — Michigan State University researchers say they’ve created new technology, that can cut food and water safety testing time from days to just hours.

The team is developing magnetic particles that latch onto bacteria in food and water, so they can be quickly identified.

It's considered a breakthrough for Michigan, which has more than 14,000 contaminated water sites still awaiting cleanup.

MSU Engineering Professor Evangelyn Alocilja led the research. She explained that instead of sending water samples to a lab, new tests can be performed on site, greatly speeding up the process.

"It's a game changer, right," said Alocilia. "Because now you can make decisions as to whether the food is safe to process, or safe to eat, safe to send to the market, or water is safe to drink."

Alocilja pointed out that the new tests can detect bacteria like salmonella or E. coli in as little as two to four hours, giving communities a chance to act fast before people get sick.

She emphasized that her team is passionate about saving lives, and helping populations with limited resources, because they're more vulnerable to contaminated food and water.

She pointed out that this advanced testing method helps researchers get to the root of what's causing the contamination.

"Now we can closely monitor, human, animal, plants, soil, environmental bacteria coming through the system," said Alocilia, "and how it is being processed."

Researchers note the portable tests are inexpensive, costing less than $2 per sample. They believe they could be especially valuable in health clinics and emergency rooms, where speed is critical.

 PHOTO CAPTION — Researchers at Michigan State University say only 1 milliliter of glycan-coated magnetic nanoparticles is needed to test 1 liter of water or 25 grams of food, making the process highly efficient. — Photo by Sergey Mironov (Adobe Stock) 

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Michigan News Connection Staff Writer

(PNS) — A new report from the nonpartisan American Security Project warned the U.S. risks falling further behind China in the global electric vehicle race.

In Michigan, EV adoption is growing but still modest, making up about 4% of all registered vehicles in the state, which is about 310,000 EVs out of 8 million total vehicles on state roads.

Katherine Yusko, research analyst at the project and the report's lead author, explained the pace of EV sales in the U.S.

"They have slowed a little bit," Yusko observed. "They've been less dramatic than perhaps was expected, and this is in part because of the politicization of electric vehicles, their association with climate change, people worry. People have range anxiety. But nevertheless, the U.S. is still expanding."

The report added the American EV market is a strategic asset and without bold investment and new trade alliances, the U.S. could cede the future to China. Right now, China is the largest EV market in the world by a wide margin, producing 70% of the world’s EVs and 80% of the world’s lithium-ion batteries.

Michigan is positioned to become a leader in battery production by 2030, with billions in investments planned but the goal hinges on federal policy to support it. Yusko argued government support serves an important role in the success of any nation's EV industry.

"In China, we see the government playing a substantial part in really driving forward the EV factor, and we could see the same happen in the U.S., not perhaps in the same way," Yusko noted. "But, certainly, the government has major influence over the course of this industry."

Yusko pointed out Tesla once led in EV sales worldwide, until China’s Build Your Dreams, or BYD, took the top spot in 2024.

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Michigan News Connection Staff Writer

(PNS) — A federal proposal moving through Congress could stall Michigan's booming rooftop solar industry by ending key tax credits that have fueled clean energy growth, nationwide.

What is being called the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" would eliminate the 30% credit for rooftop solar and other home energy systems, including those leased by companies.

Michigan leads the nation in Inflation Reduction Act-funded projects, attracting more than $27 billion in investment and creating more than 26,000 jobs.

Allan O'Shea, founder and CEO of 50-year-old CBS Solar in Copemish, said about 90% of his family-owned business is residential rooftop solar.

 "That 90% would lose one of the benefits that go with solar and that's a 30% tax credit," O'Shea pointed out. "The other 10% of our business is commercial and it would survive but the damage would be done. We're talking 25+ employees here."

O'Shea sent a heartfelt letter to most senators, expressing concerns about the bill's effects on his livelihood and others'. Supporters of the big tax-cut and spending bill argued it would boost the economy and strengthen national security.

Backers also said the bill delivers the biggest tax cut in U.S. history for those earning $30,000 to $80,000 a year, with 15% off their taxes. O'Shea emphasized he and his customers are money-smart and value long-term investments, adding the issue is not the goal, but how the bill is being pushed through.

"I just hope for the saner minds, the senators and the Congress people that we have in Michigan, to step up and slow the pace down," O'Shea urged. "You can sunset it."

In 2023, solar power jumped 51% nationwide, with solar making up more than half of all the new electricity added to the grid. 

BY GARY JACKSON

CCN Staff Writer

TRAVERSE CITY (CCN) —   A mass stabbing Saturday (July 26, 2025) in Traverse City has made national headlines.

The Traverse City Record-Eagle reports that an assailant armed with a folding knife conducted a mass stabbing inside a Walmart Supercenter store there, according to Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea.

USA Today, CNN, Fox News Channel and MSNBC reported the story within a few hours after it happened, as did statewide newspapers The Detroit News and Detroit Free Press in their online editions.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a statement on social media, saying, "A mass stabbing at a Walmart in Traverse City... left at least 11 people injured, some seriously. The attack occurred just before 5 pm and prompted a Level 2 Mass Casualty Incident response. A suspect is in custody. No shots were fired, despite initial confusion. The investigation remains ongoing."

Lt Governor Garland Gilchrist also issued a statement on social media, saying, "I’ve been briefed on the tragic events in Traverse City. My heart goes out to the victims and everyone affected by this senseless act of violence. I’m deeply thankful to the law enforcement officers and first responders who acted quickly. We are keeping the community in our thoughts as we continue to follow developments closely."

Numerous media reports said all of the victims are alive tonight but three were in surgery as of 9 pm at Munson Medical Center.

Sheriff Shea said employees were interviewed by Michigan State Police at a nearby restaurant and were able to re-enter Walmart to get their belongings just before 7 pm.

BY GARY ANDERSON

CCN Staff Writer

DETROIT (CCN) — The FBI announced in an overnight press release that seven Detroit men have been charged in the city on a 43-count indictment alleging conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, weapons charges and money laundering. The seven are accused of a conspiracy to distribute drugs, as well as selling cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin and fentanyl.

Acting United States Attorney Julie A. Beck made the announcement with two Special Agents at the Detroit office of the FBI — Chevoryea Gibson and Charles E. Miller.

Charged were Tary Holcomb, 52, Maurice Hill, 56, James Thomas, 47, Curtis Weathers, 52, Conrad Taylor 48, Shantonio Brooks, 49 and Jason Ford, age unknown. 

If convicted of the conspiracy charge, each of the men faces a mandatory prison sentence of at least 10 years. Holcomb and Thomas each face additional charges for possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes while Holcomb also faces charges for being a felon in possession of a firearm and for money laundering activities dating back to January 2023.

Acting U.S. Attorney Beck said, "This case is an example of our zealous commitment to identify and dismantle local drug trafficking organizations that wreak havoc in our community by distributing harmful substances, illegally amassing weapons, and laundering illicit proceeds. This activity puts far too many at risk, and it will not be tolerated in our district."

FBI Special Agent Gibson said, "The indictment of seven men, accused of conspiring to distribute drugs, illegally possess firearms, and engage in money laundering, was successfully halted due to the tireless and meticulous investigative efforts by our dedicated team at the FBI Detroit Field Office, in close collaboration with our law enforcement partners at the IRS Criminal Investigation. This operation underscores our commitment to protecting the safety of Michigan’s communities."

BY BRYSTAL BLAIR

Public News Service Staff Writer

(PNS) —  Some policy experts warn that the newly signed federal budget law, officially known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” could leave more than 700,000 Michiganders without health coverage and strip food assistance from more than 120,000 residents. Backers of the new law say it slashes government spending, delivers major tax relief and strengthens immigration enforcement. Others are concerned that it shifts heavy financial burdens onto states and vulnerable communities.

Monique Stanton, president and CEO, Michigan League for Public Policy, said with billions of dollars going away over a ten-year period, health care is going to take a big hit under the new law.

"And what that means is that health-care systems will have less ability to plan, to expand - to even provide some the same types of services that they're providing right now," she explained.

For Michigan alone, the legislation could mean finding $8. 5 billion to continue Medicaid expansion and covering a $304 million shortfall in food assistance.

Congressman John James of Michigan's Oakland County Republican in the U.S. House, voiced support for the new law on his personal X account - calling it a chance to “lock in and boost the doubled Child Tax Credit for more than 40 million families.” 

But Stanton warned tough choices lie ahead as the new budget law takes effect.

"Lawmakers are going to have to make really difficult decisions about the types of things that they continue to cover things like home- and community-based services, the children's services," she continued.

Those that could be most affected by the new budget law include low-income families, seniors, veterans, people with disabilities and children who rely on Medicaid and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, referred to as SNAP.

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Michigan News Connection Staff Writer

(PNS) — A federal proposal moving through Congress could stall Michigan's booming rooftop solar industry by ending key tax credits that have fueled clean energy growth, nationwide.

What is being called the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" would eliminate the 30% credit for rooftop solar and other home energy systems, including those leased by companies.

Michigan leads the nation in Inflation Reduction Act-funded projects, attracting more than $27 billion in investment and creating more than 26,000 jobs.

Allan O'Shea, founder and CEO of 50-year-old CBS Solar in Copemish, said about 90% of his family-owned business is residential rooftop solar.

 "That 90% would lose one of the benefits that go with solar and that's a 30% tax credit," O'Shea pointed out. "The other 10% of our business is commercial and it would survive but the damage would be done. We're talking 25+ employees here."

O'Shea sent a heartfelt letter to most senators, expressing concerns about the bill's effects on his livelihood and others'. Supporters of the big tax-cut and spending bill argued it would boost the economy and strengthen national security.

Backers also said the bill delivers the biggest tax cut in U.S. history for those earning $30,000 to $80,000 a year, with 15% off their taxes. O'Shea emphasized he and his customers are money-smart and value long-term investments, adding the issue is not the goal, but how the bill is being pushed through.

"I just hope for the saner minds, the senators and the Congress people that we have in Michigan, to step up and slow the pace down," O'Shea urged. "You can sunset it."

In 2023, solar power jumped 51% nationwide, with solar making up more than half of all the new electricity added to the grid. 

BY GARY ANDERSON

CCN Staff Writer

LANSING (CCN) — Republicans in the state legislature are saying that a $28 million project is being proposed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to study how to charge Michigan residents for every mile they drive to replace gas taxes being lost by electric vehicles.

They say it's buried in the massive $82.5 billion Michigan budget plan proposed for the 2026 fiscal year to tax residents on a "charge by the mile" basis to replace lost state revenue from EV sales cutting into the gas tax revenue.

The exact wording says that "about $28 million would pay to to explore road funding options and conduct a study" and "pilot of potential road usage charge revenue options."

This kind of tax, Republican opponents say, would especially harm Uber and Lyft drivers, delivery drivers and others forced to use vehicles for work if a new tax is created to charge for how many miles you travel on what they call Michigan's, "broken roads."

Whitmer's proposed $82.5 billion budget for 2026 is $1.2 billion more than last year. Spending has gone up substantially under the Whitmer administration from $58.5 billion in her first year to $24 billion more now as is being proposed. The budget was $56.7 billion for 2018 in Rick Snyder's final year as Governor.

TROY (CCN) — The owner of a hyperbaric chamber in Troy and three of her employees were charged on Monday (March 10, 2025) in the tragic death of a 5-year-old there in late January.

The charges were announced by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel after an investigation by the Troy Police Department.

Thomas Cooper died at the Oxford Center on Jan. 31 and his mom was injured.

Owner Tamela Peterson of Brighton, Safety Manager Jeffrey Mosteller of Clinton Township, and employee Gary Marken of Spring Arbor were charged with second degree murder that carries a sentence of up to life in prison, if convicted.

Marken, 65, is the management assistant at the facility. He, Peterson, 58, and Mosteller, 64, could be charged alternatively with Involuntary Manslaughter which is a 15-year felony.

The operator of the hyperbaric chamber (Aleta Moffitt, 60, of Rochester Hills) was charged with one count of Involuntary Manslaughter and one count of Medical Records — Intentionally Placing False Information on Chart, which is a four-year felony, if convicted.

The Oxford Center provides therapy for children with various health conditions, including autism, ADHD and autoimmune diseases, through Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.

A.G. Nessel said the hyperbaric chamber caught fire from the inside and exploded while Cooper was undergoing treatment. She said both the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Sechrist, the manufacturer of the hyperbaric chamber, publish strict safety protocols that must be followed before treatment. However, it is alleged that these standards were deliberately discarded at the time of Cooper’s death.

“This tragedy could have been prevented if proper safety protocols were followed,” A.G. Nessel said. “Instead, deliberate negligence and a blatant disregard for safety cost a child his life. I appreciate the investigatory efforts of the Troy Police Department. My office remains committed to seeking justice for Thomas and holding those responsible accountable."

Troy Police Department Chief of Police Josh Jones released a statement that said: "After an extensive and difficult investigation, these arrests reflect the dedication and commitment of our investigators through this process. We appreciate the partnership with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office leading up to the arrests yesterday and as we move forward.”

All four defendants are now in custody and awaiting arraignment in Oakland County 52-4 District Court in Troy.

DETROIT (CCN) — A lawsuit was dropped Thursday (Feb. 27, 2025) by the government against Dan Gilbert's Detroit loan giant Rocket Mortgage that had been accused of paying kickbacks to real estate brokers and agents who directed homebuyers to them for loans. 

A CNBC report said the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) also dismissed cases Thursday against Capital One, Vanderbilt Mortgage & Finance and the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency. 

All the lawsuit dismissals follow President Donald Trump's firing of Rohit Chopra and selecting Russell Vought as the new director of the Office of Management and Budget, as acting CFPB director on Jan. 31. The bureau is in flux as Elon Musk has it on his chopping block in his task to eliminate government waste.

Rocket Mortgage officials had denied any wrongdoing and said in a statement: "It is good to see the truth come to light. This case was a misrepresentation of the facts, as we have said from the day the suit was filed. It was an empty claim brought forth by former CFPB director Chopra for the sole purpose of seeing his name in headlines during the final days in public office. Rocket Homes has always connected buyers with top-performing agents based only on objective criteria like how well they helped homebuyers achieve their dream of homeownership. We are proud to put this matter behind us and remain focused on our mission to help everyone buy a home.”

BY GARY ANDERSON

CCN Staff Writer

LANSING (CCN) — Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer gave her seventh State of the State address at the Capitol in Lansing last night (Feb. 26, 2025). She vowed to fight for Michigan residents, regardless of party, and called on state legislators to deliver bi-partisan cooperation to move her state forward until her term ends in 2026.

Whitmer was re-elected to a second term in 2022.

She set forth her policy goals in her State of the State speech from road funding to limiting phone use by students in schools.

After campaigning hard for fellow Democrat Kamala Harris in the last Presidential campaign against Donald Trump last year, Whitmer promised to collaborate with his administration on shared goals with some of her top priorities over the next two years that include an advanced manufacturing mega site in Genesee County's Mundy Township and a fighter mission at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County.

Her nearly one-hour long speech also touted her plans to "make life more affordable for Michiganders" and to "create more opportunities to help people in our state earn more money" as well as calling on state legislators to "make government work better for the people we all serve." 

 GOP House Floor Leader Rep. Bryan Posthumus  of Rockford gave his party's rebuttal with a six-minute speech released by video online via YouTube. 

Posthumus said:  "We all want Michigan to be a place where our kids can grow up, find a good job and raise a family of their own, rather than having to move to Tennessee, Texas, Florida. I love our state, but I was born in 1984 and Michigan has been on the decline for pretty much my entire life. We now have divided government here in Michigan, the Democrats currently control the Senate and the governor's office. Republicans control the House of Representatives. That means we're going to have to work together if we want to get anything done. I'll tell you one thing, Republicans have no intention of using our majority to obstruct. We will use it to lead." 

State Rep. Posthumus agreed with Governor Whitmer's call for bipartisan support in fixing the roads but said we don't need to raise taxes to do i, saying, "The governor is talking about raising taxes again. We don't need to raise taxes. We don't need more money. We have more than enough money already. In fact, House Republicans already proposed a plan to fix the roads without costing you an additional penny."

He spoke out against the state's rising budget, saying it has has grown from nearly $60 billion in 2019 to more than $80 billion now. "When Governor Whitmer took office, the state budget was $58 billion,"  Posthumus said. "She's proposed $86 billion for the next year. If the budget had just just kept pace with inflation, it'd only be $72 billion. What's more, last legislative session started with a $9 billion surplus. Your government squandered it, all of it."

Democrat Floor Leader John Fitzgerald of Wyoming said, “Tonight, Michigan’s legislators came together to share our dedication and passion for serving the people of Michigan. Now, we must champion policies that lend support and further the values of Michigan’s families. I am proud to help lead my fellow House Democrats who are energized to build Michigan into the best place to start and care for your family. From affordable childcare to lowering everyday expenses, we’re fighting to give families across the state more breathing room.”

Newly-named Michigan Republican Party Chairman Jim Runestad who watched the speech from his seat as a State Senator, issued a statement in response to Governor Whitmer’s State of the State address as follos:   “In 2017, the budget for the state of Michigan was about $56 billion. After nearly seven years of Governor Whitmer’s leadership, her budget has now ballooned to over $80 billion. This exponential growth represents massive expansions of the state government. More bureaucrats hired to come after honest tax payers, more taxes to pay for those bureaucrats, and more wasteful government programs that are more focused on DEI than the common sense governmental functions that Michiganders want. Last November, Michigan voters sent a clear message to Lansing politicians; they want a government that works for them, not against them. Gov. Whitmer needs to cut the pork, cut the extreme left wing policies, and cut Michigan taxes. The 2026 elections are right around the corner, and the Michigan GOP will work nonstop to ensure that Republicans take control of the state government and get Michigan back on the right track. We will Make Michigan Great Again.”  

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

BY GARY ANDERSON

CCN Staff Writer

LANSING (CCN) — Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel joined a coalition of 21 other AG's in another lawsuit against moves by the Trump administration. Last week, it was to try to block cuts to federal funding of programs she called "essential" services. This time, she says she's standing with the nation’s federal employees in a challenge to the Trump administration’s federal “buyout” plan, joining the AFL-CIO's filing for a temporary restraining order (TRO).

The U.S. Office of Personnel Management on January 28th offered most federal employees little more than a week to accept a “deferred resignation,” which purportedly would allow federal workers to resign, yet retain pay and benefits. Workers say e-mails contained implicit threats of furloughs or layoffs that may otherwise impact their employment. 

A.G. Nessel said, “Michigan is home to tens of thousands of federal employees who serve our communities in a variety of critical ways, from the medical staff at our Veterans Affairs hospitals to the Transportation Security Administration staff who secure our airports, to the National Park Service rangers who preserve Isle Royale. The offers of an alleged deferred resignation were made across the board without consideration for mission needs or appropriate staffing levels and threaten the Federal government’s ability to provide necessary services to residents.  They go so far as to threaten our security. This thinly veiled attempt to replace dedicated public servants with administration loyalists is illegal, harmful, and must not be allowed to stand.” 

Union leaders filed suit in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts, emphasizing that the directive and associated FAQs — which were revised multiple times — caused widespread confusion and dismay among federal employees who were faced with an arbitrary deadline of last Friday based on a directive that the plaintiff unions assert is illegal and contrary to federal ethics regulations.  

U.S. District Court Judge George A. O’Toole, Jr., stayed the purported deadline of the “Fork directive” on Friday.

As AG Nessel emphasized in the coalition’s proposed amicus brief, the indiscriminate loss of indispensable federal employees could have a devastating effect on cooperative aspects of federal, state and local government — from those who care for veterans to those who arrive when natural disaster strikes. The brief also describes the coercive nature of the directive to our Nation’s public servants. The coalition urged the court to grant a TRO to prevent this harm to federal workers and to protect the public interest. 

AG Nessel previously urged any Michigan residents considering the offer to exercise caution. 

Other AG's joining Nessel were from Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia. 

 All are Democrats except Joe Lombardo of Nevada and Phil Scott of Vermont.

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel

BY GARY ANDERSON

CCN Staff Writer

ANNA ARBOR (CCN) — University of Michigan President Santa Ono and three other top UM officials sent an email Thursday (Feb. 27, 2025)  to alert faculty and staff of financial uncertainty with government funding. 

The e-mail said they could be impacted by major cuts to federal funding for universities across America as part of billionaire Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team cutting what he calls waste in government.

While the e-mail did not say which program was cut, President Donald Trump announced last week that the U.S. Social Security Administration would end the Retirement and Disability Research Consortium cooperative agreements. 

UM's Michigan Retirement and Disability Research Center is part of that consortium, along with the National Bureau of Economic Research and four other universities. UM began its program in 1998 to study Social Security, pension, disability and retirement with a multi-million dollar annually for its research.

The e-mail said, "We expect this is the first of what will likely be many orders, the combined impact of which could have significant repercussions on the university’s budget. While the university is fortunate to maintain a strong financial position, we have spent recent weeks modeling scenarios and taking prudent actions to be as prepared as possible to respond to financial events that may lie ahead."

UM is one of the nation's leaders in research, spending more than $2 billion last year.

DOGE has already proposed that the Trump administration make billions of dollars in cuts to government programs deemed as "wasteful" by Musk's team.

BY GARY ANDERSON

CCN Staff Writer

WAHINGON D.C. (CCN) — One of Governor Gretchen Whitmer's cabinet members was given a chance to speak before a committee in the United States Congress.

Dr. Tim Boring, Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), testified this before the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry.

He was part of a panel entitled “Perspectives From the Field: Farmer and Rancher Views on the Agricultural Economy."

“Since your invitation was extended for my testimony, I’ve been asked by producers to share with you just how vital specialty crop support programs are for their existence,” Dr. Boring said in his opening statement.

He added:  “Unfortunately, for many specialty crops, times have never been more tenuous. What once provided an avenue for farmers to diversify their products has forced many to choose whether or not their farm will welcome the next generation.”

Dr. Boring told committee members about the vital importance of public sector research which is currently supported by specialty crop block grants and the Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops federal program.

He said those federal fund help Michigan growers expand domestic markets or develop new markets for their crops.

“For instance, last year, Michigan cherry farmers lost between 30 and 75 percent of their crop because of abnormal weather events that drove unpreceded insect and pest pressure,” Dr. Boring told the committee members.

He also said: “Losses such as these are becoming far more common. A farm bill that provides growers support, such as through new research, helps ensure the continuation of their family farms in the face of these unprecedented challenges are critical for the long-term viability of specialty crops in Michigan and across the country… At a time when there so many unknowns around our trade partnerships, fostering stronger domestic markets will be critical for the success of our growers.”

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is Dr. Tim Boring, Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, speaking before the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry .

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Public News Service

WASHINGON D.C. (PNS) — Michigan's Senate congressional delegation of Democrats Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters have "aced" the National Environmental Scorecard, earning a perfect 100% in 2024.

The League of Conservation Values  uses the scorecard to track lawmakers' votes on a range of bills relating to the environment and democracy— from climate change and wildlife conservation to environmental justice.

Sens. Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters, both D-Mich., scored 100%, with lifetime scores of 91% and 94%, respectively.

Nick Dodge, communications manager for Michigan's League of Conservation Voters, explained why the state consistently stands out on the scorecard.

"Water is pretty much everywhere around here, and people have a true connection to it," he said. "The people that we send to Congress get that and understand that. Anyone that goes to Congress and votes against our water, they can expect to hear that from their constituents."

The national average scores show a stark contrast between parties, with Democrats generally scoring higher than Republicans. The League said it aims to use the scorecard to hold elected officials accountable and inform voters ahead of elections.

The majority of Republican politicians view environmental policies as examples of government overreach, while most Democrats view them as a pressing need for climate action. Dodge expressed concern over the obvious divide.

"We see environmental issues as nonpartisan," he said. "You're talking about clean air to breathe, safe water to drink. To us, those shouldn't be — and are not — partisan issues."

Of Michigan's neighbors, Ohio's delegation scored 25%, Wisconsin's scored 50% and the Indiana delegation got a zero.

The National Environmental Scorecard is updated each year to reflect the most recent congressional votes.

Senator Stabenow retired at the end of the year.

Senator Peters has announced that he won't be seeking re-election to Congress in 2026.

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Public News Service

(PNS) — A new analysis revealed a staggering amount of livestock waste is flowing through Michigan's waterways each year, equivalent to the sewage of 81 million people.

The nonprofit For Love of Water released the analysis. The waste, primarily from concentrated animal feeding operations, contains nitrogen and phosphorus, which contribute to toxic algal blooms.

Chelsea Thompson, legal assistant for the group, said legal challenges to the most recent permit sought in 2020 left Michigan farms under an outdated 2015 permit.

"There was a lot of challenges made by the ag community as well as the environmental community. I think something we can both agree on -- both sides anyways -- is the 2020 permit, as it was written, was not in the best interest of either party."

Michigan's Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy oversees permits for large operations and Thompson hopes it will apply lessons from 2020 legal issues to improve waste runoff rules, benefiting both agriculture and the environment.

She pointed out a new 2025 permit is expected in just a few months. Michigan now has nearly 300 permitted concentrated animal feeding operations, up from just 34 in 2005, producing about 4 billion gallons of untreated liquid waste and up to 60 million tons of solid manure annually.

Thompson acknowledged the issue is often framed as "farmers versus environmentalists," but she believes they are on the same team.

"I want to be able to have food. I want to be able to have all of the different things that we couldn't have without the farming community," Thompson stressed. "But I also want our water to be safe for future generations. I believe that someone working in the farming community would say the same thing."

The Environmental Protection Agency regulates concentrated animal feeding operations nationwide, under the Clean Water Act but enforcement varies by state.

BY MIKE KILLBREATH

CCN Executive Editor

PONTIAC (CCN) — An investigation into public corruption by current and past City of Pontiac public officials is being conducted by the FBI, according to a story by the Detroit News.

The newspaper said a grand jury probe is being done into alleged "illicit cash" going into "attempts to launch a marijuana industry."

The published report said: "Emails obtained by The Detroit News through Freedom of Information Act requests filed with the city reveal the investigation has involved the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Detroit securing a grand jury subpoena for a former city official’s bank and personnel records."

The News said FBI agents traveled on Nov. 1 to a farm owned in Missouri by a marijuana industry lawyer and an individual there who allegedly helped finance the election campaign of Pontiac City Councilwoman Melanie Rutherford in 2021. The News credited the report to four sources "familiar with the investigation" and reported that they "requested anonymity because they were not authorized to speak about the investigation."

 Rutherford is a former field organizer for the Michigan Democratic Party.

Both the FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office declined to comment and no one has been charged with any crimes so far amid the ongoing investigation.

The investigation includes focusing on what the Detroit News called "alleged misspending of taxpayer dollars by former Mayor Deirdre Waterman, a staff member’s finances and questions about whether city officials received bribes or demanded money from developers and businessmen competing to grow and sell marijuana in Pontiac."

The FOIA request by the Detroit News helped define the scope of a federal investigation that has been going on for several years into Pontiac’s public officials.

Rick Johnson, the former Michigan Speaker of the House and chair of the state's marijuana licensing board, was convicted two years ago of taking $110,200 in bribes related to granting licenses. It was the biggest bribery scandal in Lansing in more than 30 years — sending Johnson, two lobbyists and a businessman to prison.

The FOIA produced a recording e-mailed to the FBI by a city official of local developer Dalen Hanna taping City Councilwoman Rutherford repeatedly asking her for cash. In a Feb. 10, 2023 recording, The Detroit News said developer Hanna told Pontiac Community Development Director Rachel Loughrin: “I am generous. I’m happy to help. But when she starts shaking me up and checking my pockets for cash, that’s where I draw the line,... She called me 1,000 times. She wasn’t taking the hint. I said ... leave me alone.”"

 Hanna is involved in a $15 million redevelopment of the Oakland Towne Center — the tallest building in downtown Pontiac.

Rutherford denied any wrongdoing in a comment to the Detroit News, saying, "I didn't do anything wrong. I never bribed anyone. I didn't extort anyone."

BY GARY ANDERSON

CCN Staff Writer

LANSING (CCN) — Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel sent a team of her Assistant A.G.'s to court Monday (Jan. 27, 2025) to continue her fight to shut down the controversial Line 5 to the Straits of Mackinac.

They gave oral arguments before Judge James Jamo of the Ingham County Circuit Court in Nessel's lawsuit filed against Enbridge Inc.

 Enbridge is multinational pipeline and energy company headquartered in Canad's Calgary, Alberta. Enbridge owns and operates pipelines throughout Canada and the USA to transport crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids. The company also generates renewable energy. Enbridge's pipeline system is the longest in North America and the largest oil export pipeline network in the world. 

A.G. Nessel has taken a position that the 1953 easement that authorized the location of Line 5 on the bottomlands of the Straits of Mackinac has been invalid since its inception because it violates the Public Trust Doctrine and that the presence of the pipelines in the Straits violates the Michigan Environmental Protection Act and constitutes a public nuisance.

“Enbridge has deliberately caused years of delay through procedural tactics, attempting to block Michigan courts from deciding a critical issue that directly impacts its residents,” Nessel said. “Line 5 has long been operating in the Straits on an invalid easement, posing a significant threat to the people of this state and our environment. After more than five years, I’m glad we finally had this opportunity to present our case on behalf of the People of Michigan and our Great Lakes in state court.”

Judge Jamo previously agreed with A.G. Nessel that Line 5 needed to be temporarily shut down after being struck by anchors or similar objects, and the court ordered a temporary shut down in the summer of 2020. After Enbridge sought to remove the case to federal court, Nessel's office successfully argued before the Sixth Circiut Court of Appeals that the case belongs in Michigan state court.

At the conclusion of Monday's (Jan. 27, 2025) hearing, Judge Jamo took the matter under advisement and indicated that the Court will issue a written opinion.

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is Dana Nessel who is Michigan's Attorney General.

BY MELISSA MARTIN

CCN Staff Writer

LANSING (CCN) — Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has closed the case on a controversial investigation into an Oshtemo Township woman who admitted falsifying a dog's veterinary and vaccination records.

 Paige Harkema will pay a $2,00 fine and won't offer any pets for adoption over the next 10 years as part of the agreement with A.G. Nessel's office. An investigation into unlawful business practices by the Kalamaoo Couny woman was resolved when an "Assurance of Compliance and Discontinuance" document was filed in Ingham County Circuit Court on Thursday (Jan. 30, 2025).

She became the subject of an investigation when using the alias “Abby Stratiskii” to post about her dog “Toby” on a web site known as RescueMe.org. She said his barking had caused her to get an eviction notice — forcing her to rehome the dog.

Two Michigan consumers saw the listing, paid Harkema a $250 “adoption fee” and received Toby’s veterinary and vaccination records. These records were falsified, according to Nessel.

The terms of the Assurance filed in court on Thursday also also require Harkema to cease and desist from engaging in deceptive business practices and she also agreed to never again falsify vet records, post animals for sale or adoption on RescueMe.org, or use an alias or pseudonym when selling goods or services to Michigan consumers.

The Michigan Consumer Protection Act (MCPA) prohibits anyone from falsifying vaccination records for an animal they sell.

“Adopting a pet in need can be a rewarding experience, but always remember to be cautious, especially when adopting online,” A.G. Nessel said. “If you receive vet or vaccination records, always verify their authenticity with the veterinarian on file before finalizing the adoption. If you believe you were deceived during the purchase of a pet from Ms. Harkema, please do not hesitate to contact my office.” 

BY MIKE KILLBREATH

CCN Executive Editor

PONTIAC (CCN) —  A Pontiac asphalt paving company was fined $6.5 million and its former President was sentenced  to six months in prison and given a personal $20,000 fine for his role in a conspiracy to rig bids for asphalt paving services contracts in Michigan.

The U.S. Attorney's Office revealed the sentence in a news release on Friday (April 18, 2025).

Timothy Baugher, former President of Pontiac-based Asphalt Specialists LLC (ASI), pleaded guilty to conspiring with F. Allied Construction Company Inc. and employees from those companies to rig bids in each other’s favor. 

Court documents say they conspired to coordinate each other’s bid prices so that the agreed-upon losing company would submit intentionally non-competitive bids. These bids gave the false impression of competition when, in fact, the co-conspirators already had decided among themselves who would win the contracts. Baugher participated in the conspiracy from July 2017 through May 2021, according to the indictment against him.

“There is nothing impressive, just, or indeed lawful about rigging bids with your competitors to ‘win’ a contract,” said Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Omeed A. Assefi of the Justice Department's Antitrust Division. 

He added, “As the court itself noted, white-collar criminals mistakenly expect better treatment than blue-collar criminals. The Antitrust Division and its law enforcement partners will enforce the law against all individuals who seek to cheat and deprive the public of the benefits of competition.”

Anthony Licari, Special Agent in Charge  of the Midwestern Region of the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, had this to say: “Violating the nation’s antitrust laws is a serious matter, and those who try to get around federal bidding and contract rules will be held accountable. The message is clear: we will continue working collaboratively with our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners to uncover and dismantle brazen fraud schemes driven by personal gain.”

Baugher is one of seven individuals that have been charged as part of an ongoing federal antitrust investigation into bid rigging and other anticompetitive conduct in the asphalt paving services industry. Three companies also have been charged as part of the investigation, which, to date, has resulted in over $8.1 million in criminal fines.

The Antitrust Division’s Chicago Office is prosecuting the case, which was investigated with the assistance of the Offices of Inspectors General for the U.S. Department of Transportation and U.S. Postal Service.

Anyone with information in connection with this investigation should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258,

BY MELISSA MARTIN

CCN Staff Writer

LANSING (CCN) — Michigan's Attorney General has joined A.G.'s in 21 other states to file a lawsuit to stop President Donald Trump from making massive federal cuts to what they claim are essential services for many residents.

They say the proposed slashing of more than a trillion dollars in funding will impact millions of Americans.

The coalition of A.G.'s across the country say that jeopardizing state funds will put Americans in danger by depriving law enforcement of much-needed resources — potentially pause support for the U.S. Department of Justice's initiatives to combat hate crimes and violence against women, support community policing and provide services to victims of crimes. They say the cuts could also  halt essential disaster relief funds to places like California and North Carolina where tens of thousands of residents are relying on FEMA grants to rebuild their lives after devastating wildfires and floods. The Trump policy would immediately jeopardize state programs that provide critical health and childcare services to families in need and deliver support to public schools.

Nessel released a video earlier this week and said:  “Freezing these critical federal funds will harm millions of Michigan residents who rely on these essential, congressionally funded programs. While we are continuing to seek clarity on the totality of what is impacted, we know that if a full freeze goes into effect, Michigan families will suffer, children will go hungry, communities will lose safety protections, and schools will struggle. Such a freeze will disrupt countless programs that Michiganders depend upon daily.” 

 While the Trump administration has attempted to clarify the scope and meaning of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB )policy that has already frozen funds to many states, officials at state agencies have outlined how the OMB memo will have a direct, immediate, and adverse impact on residents.

A.G. Nessel said Michigan residents who rely on federal financial assistance could see the following happen:

 • Gut the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), which currently receives about $26.6 billion — nearly 71% of its budget, from federal funding. Among the many programs administered by MDHHS are Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which feeds low-income families, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

 • Harm Michigan children by immediately cutting off funding for Child Development and Care. Under these programs, Michigan receives about $600 million each year to ensure the health, education, and developmental wellbeing of about 42,000 Michigan children. The next payment is scheduled to go out this Friday, and if this memo blocks those funds — the impact will be drastic, and immediate. The freeze, if not stopped, will also hit Child Development and Care payroll, causing immediate layoffs as early as this week.

• Further harm Michigan children by slashing assistance to the Michigan Department of Education (MDE). MDE relies on federal funds for special education, child nutrition and other programs. If a child has special needs and relies on a 504 plan or an IEP, the federal assistance that makes those plans possible could end at any time, even though Congress has determined the funding should occur.  

Nessel added in her video statement: “This freeze not only jeopardizes the well-being of Michiganders, but it is a clear violation of the Constitution and the laws that govern our country,” Nessel continued. “It undermines the safety and security of American families, which President Trump swore an oath to protect. I will not stand idly by. My office will continue to fight for the rights of Michiganders, and today, that means holding the federal government accountable for this unprecedented and illegal attack on our citizens and our future. We will not let these critical programs be taken away. We will continue to stand up for the people of Michigan and for the laws that protect them."

 As part of their lawsuit, A.G. Nessel and the coalition of attorneys general argue that OMB’s policy violates the U.S. Constitution and the Administrative Procedure Act by imposing a government-wide stop to spending without any regard for the laws and regulations that govern each source of federal funding. The lawsuit argues that the president can't decide to unilaterally override laws governing federal spending and that that OMB’s policy unconstitutionally overrides the power of Congress to decide how federal funds are spent.

Leading the lawsuit are the A.G.'s of New York, California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Rhode Island. All are Democrats. President Trump is a Republican.

Joining the lawsuit with Michigan A.G. Nessel are the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland,  Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. All are Democrats except Joe Lombardo of Nevada and Phil Scott of Vermont.

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel in a video she released earlier this week to blast cuts by the Trump administration..

BY CRYSTAL BLAIR

Public News Service Staff Writer

(PNS) — Michigan ranks 15th in the nation for its number of farms, with 44,000, a slight decrease from 2023 and reflects a national decline. Now, beginning farmers in Michigan and across the nation may soon receive support from Congress.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture defines Beginning farmers as those with 10 years or fewer of farming experience. The bipartisan New Producer Economic Security Act in Congress proposes a USDA pilot program to help new farmers overcome critical challenges, such as securing land, funding operations and accessing markets.

Nicholas Rossi, policy specialist for the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, explained the need for new farmers.

"The average age of a farmer in the United States is 58 years old, I think a little above 58 years old," Rossi pointed out. "We see in the next couple of years there's going to be one of the largest transfers of agricultural land this country's seen in a long time."

If the bill is approved, the program could fund low- or no-interest loans, land-access grants and community-ownership models, such as land trusts and co-ops, to allow more young farmers to enter the business.

The most recent Census of Agriculture showed beginning farmers now account for 30% of the almost 3 million farmers in the U.S., up from just over 26% five years earlier.

Rossi stressed the future of farmland access is critical, with high stakes for who will farm in the years to come.

"A lot of that land that's transferred is either going to go and just continue to make the biggest farms bigger, or it can go towards this next generation of farmers," Rossi noted. "We can hopefully try and reverse that trend of decreasing amount of family farms in the U.S., and also looking at decreasing the average age of farmers in the United States."

Data indicate the East and West Coast states have a higher share of beginning farmers compared to the Midwest. Rossi hopes the pilot program will become a permanent feature of the next Farm Bill.

INKSTER (CCN) — A press release from the U.S. Attorney's Office has announced that the former mayor of Inkster has taken a plea deal and admitted to taking bribes of $100,000.

Federal Prosecutor Dawn Ison was joined in the announcement by Cheyvoryea Gibson who is the Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Patrick Wimberly, 50, served as the Mayor of the City of Inkster from 2019 until 2023. Charging documents on felony bribers counts In the spring of 2022 said Wimberly demanded $100,000 in cash payments to facilitate the sale of property owned by the city to an outside party that was referred to  “Person A” in the indictment.

Over several months, Person A provided Wimberly with monthly cash bribes to secure the purchase of this property. The monthly payments started at $5,000 but the parties agreed to eventually increase that amount. After the initial bribes, Wimberly explained that he was ready to increase the payments. Person A agreed. But when Person A later did not provide the amount Wimberly expected, Wimberly complained that he was due “10,000 a month.” Person A then increased the monthly payments to $10,000. 

In total, Person A provided $50,000 in cash to Wimberly for the purpose of winning the bid for the property he wanted. The FBI investigation intervened before the property could be transferred to Person A.

The bribery charge is a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 666, and carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000.

“Public officials who act in their own best interests, motivated by greed, betray the trust of their communities and the general public,” U.S. Attorney Ison said. “ We will continue to aggressively prosecute corrupt public officials for their illegal actions.”

Special Agent Gibson said, "Investigating public corruption is a primary concern and priority of the FBI in Michigan.” 

The case against Inkster's former mayor was being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eaton P. Brown until this week's guilty plea deal was reached.

LANSING (CCN) — Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced a victory today (Oct. 22, 2024) in a lawsuit filed by the Republican National Committee (RNC) challenging Michigan’s voter registration database and maintenance.

 Judge Jane Beckering of the United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan granted A.G. Nessel’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit filed by the RNC against Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and State Director of Elections Jonathan Brater under the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA). The RNC cited high registration numbers but Judge Beckering dismissed the lawsuit for lack of standing while also noting in her opinion that the RNC’s claims lacked any merit.

“The court’s ruling is yet another example of the Republican National Committee’s strategy to present baseless, frivolous arguments both inside courtrooms as well as on social media,” A.G. Nessel said in statement released by her office earlier today.

“Michigan should be applauded as a leader in voter registration and maintenance of its voter rolls, not the target of meritless political lawsuits that serve no purpose but to incite uncertainty in our Democratic processes," she added. "That a major national political party is engaging in lawsuits that serve no purpose other than to undermine the public’s faith in our system of elections is shameful.”

In her opinion and order, Judge Beckering found fault in the RNC’s registered voter calculations, leading them to “inaccurately conclude” that the qualified voter file  contained too many people as registrants, and further that even if their faulty census data were reliable, it “does not plausibly indicate” any violation of the law, and that the RNC’s requested relief of requiring state officials ensure that ineligible voters are removed “in telling fashion, flips the statutory mandate on its head,” because the statute requires Michigan to ensure that any eligible applicants are registered, while making a “reasonable effort” to remove ineligible voters from the voter rolls.

Judge Beckering continued in her opinion and order by writing: “...the NVRA purposes to both protect electoral integrity and protect against unlawful voter disenfranchisement.  Absent Plaintiff’s legal conclusions and unwarranted factual inferences, which this Court is not required to accept as true... there is no content in Plaintiff’s Complaint that states a plausible claim under the NVRA.”