News Summary Approximately 350,000 residents of Michigan are required to repay up to $2.7 billion in overpaid unemployment benefits received during the COVID-19 pandemic. Collections will officially resume on September 12, 2025, following a pause due to a class-action lawsuit. Affected individuals may apply for a financial hardship waiver. The
News Summary Detroit has celebrated a significant victory in the recent Powerball drawing, with an online ticket winning $2 million. The Michigan Lottery announced the win, highlighting the ticket’s match of five white balls. The jackpot has soared to $1.787 billion, sparking nationwide excitement. Michigan’s recent wins add to a
News Summary A recent WalletHub study has ranked Michigan as the least productive state in terms of workforce engagement, citing key challenges such as low average work hours and employment rates. The study evaluated various factors influencing productivity, with North Dakota recognized as the hardest-working state. The findings highlight a
News Summary Astemo Ltd., a Japan-based automotive components manufacturer, announces a $95 million investment to establish a regional headquarters in Wixom, Michigan. This expansion will create approximately 200 jobs, with 150 engineering roles, reinforcing Michigan’s status as a hub for advanced mobility technology. Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s trade mission to Japan
News Summary Michigan is witnessing peak gasoline prices as it heads into the Labor Day weekend. As of August 27, 2025, regular unleaded gas hit an average high of $3.39 per gallon. Although there was a slight decrease to $3.30 by September 1, prices remain 15 cents higher than a
News Summary Muskegon, Michigan is taking important steps to revitalize its infrastructure and create affordable housing. Recent developments include a 144-apartment housing project and industrial expansion efforts aimed at promoting economic growth. Local officials have approved critical rehabilitation certifications and tax incentives to support these initiatives, addressing the urgent need
News Summary Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer met with President Trump to address the detrimental effects of his tariffs on Michigan’s economy, particularly on the automotive industry. During their private meeting in the Oval Office, she presented data showing the job losses and financial strain caused by these tariffs. The meeting
News Summary The Michigan House of Representatives has approved a $78.5 billion budget, drastically reducing funding for health, human services, labor, and law enforcement. House Bill 4706, known as the ‘Value for MI Dollars Budget’, cuts $6 billion compared to the previous Senate proposal. Significant reductions include nearly $3.79 billion
News Summary Unemployment claims in Michigan have decreased to 5,058 for the week ending August 23, down from 5,392 the previous week. This decline mirrors a national trend, as U.S. unemployment claims dropped to 229,000. Despite the reduction in claims, Michigan’s unemployment rate remains high at 5.5%. Job losses continue
News Summary Gas prices in Grand Rapids have risen sharply, now averaging $3.24 per gallon, an increase of 11.2 cents from last week. This surge is attributed to a recent refinery shutdown leading to a spike in wholesale prices. Comparatively, national prices have fallen, highlighting a significant local disparity. While
