News & Fun in Michigan
Site announcements of changes that affect the Thumbwind website are highlighted.
News and events of Michigan’s Upper Thumb that are worth knowing in the region.
Here are some of the top stories.
House Republicans in Michigan, led by Representative Bill G. Schuette, are advancing legislation to mitigate the impact of a Supreme Court ruling on wages and sick leave. The proposed bills aim to protect small businesses and workers, addressing concerns over potential economic harm.
Michigan Democrats are criticizing GOP plans to cut Affordable Care Act subsidies and Medicaid to fund tax breaks for the wealthy. They argue this will harm health care access for working families and threaten public education, prioritizing corporate interests over everyday Michiganders’ needs.
Michigan Senate Democrats and Republicans are collaborating to extend the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to include the governor and state legislators, addressing a longstanding exemption. This initiative aims to enhance government transparency, rebuild public trust, and align Michigan with national transparency standards.
Michigan Senator Sue Shink is urging House Republicans, led by Matt Hall, to expedite bipartisan legislation to enhance benefits for corrections officers. The stalled bills aim to improve recruitment and retention, addressing crucial staffing shortages and better compensation in law enforcement amidst ongoing political tensions.
The Michigan State Police has introduced its first battery electric vehicle, the 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E, into service as part of a sustainability initiative. The vehicle will aid in patrolling state-owned properties, enabling real-time assessment of its performance, efficiency, and potential for cost savings.
Sheriff Ryan Robinson’s induction into the tri-county Thumb law enforcement alliance strengthens regional cooperation in Michigan. This partnership enhances public safety, resource sharing, and emergency response capabilities, with a collective 95 years of experience among the sheriffs, ensuring robust support for local communities amidst various challenges.
Creative Studio Promotions & Technology, a woman-owned business in Michigan, has obtained a Gold rating from EcoVadis, placing it in the top 3% globally for sustainability. This achievement recognizes their ethical practices, commitment to sustainability, and significant efforts in recycling and upcycling branded merchandise.
Michigan is hosting virtual job fairs on March 12 and May 14, 2025, to connect educators with employers and combat teacher shortages. Despite progress in teacher preparation enrollment, challenges persist, prompting initiatives such as scholarships and streamlined certifications to strengthen the education workforce statewide.
