Michigan Approves Temporary Budget Extension as Energy Rates Rise and Bow Season Begins

The deadline for Michigan lawmakers to pass a full state budget has come and gone, but a last-minute stopgap measure is keeping government operations running—for now.

In the early hours of Tuesday morning, both the Michigan House and Senate approved a continuation budget to fund state operations through October 8. The move comes despite leadership announcing last week that a bipartisan deal on a long-term budget had already been reached.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer assured state employees that government services will continue without any interruption to jobs or pay.

Consumers Energy Customers to See Higher Bills

Starting November 1, Consumers Energy natural gas customers will see their monthly bills increase by more than $6, following approval from the Michigan Public Service Commission. The utility says the rate hike will support safety and reliability upgrades to its gas pipeline system.

Lansing Police Investigate Overnight Stabbing

Lansing police are investigating a stabbing that occurred shortly after midnight Tuesday in the 3600 block of Cedar Street. Officers say a 21-year-old man was injured during a domestic altercation. His injuries are non-life-threatening. No suspects have been announced.

Today Is Count Day for Michigan Schools

It’s Count Day across Michigan schools—the key attendance checkpoint that determines how much state aid each district receives. A second Count Day will be held on the second Wednesday in February.

$1.5 Million Investment in High-Tech Skilled Trades Labs

Governor Whitmer, Ford Motor Company, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation have announced a $1.5 million investment to launch Ford Future Builders Labs—new high-tech learning spaces designed to expose students to hands-on skilled trades education. The labs will be developed in partnership with public schools in Detroit, Marshall, and Battle Creek.

Lt. Gov. Gilchrist Voices Support for Palestinians

Speaking at the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee's National Convention in Dearborn, Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist referred to the Israel-Hamas conflict as a genocide and called for U.S. taxpayer dollars to stop funding “offensive weapons of war.” He also urged political candidates to reject donations from supporters of Israel’s military actions in Gaza.

Bow Hunting Season Officially Underway

Today marks the official start of bow hunting deer season across Michigan. Thousands of hunters are expected to head into the woods to kick off the fall tradition.