U-M Approves $143 Million for Sparrow Expansion in Lansing

The University of Michigan Board of Regents has unanimously approved $143 million in funding for two major healthcare projects at Sparrow’s St. Lawrence campus in Lansing.

The projects include a new behavioral health hospital and an ambulatory surgery center. Officials say groundbreaking is expected this summer, with both facilities slated to open in 2028.

The expansion aims to address growing behavioral health needs and increase outpatient surgical capacity in the mid-Michigan region.

DOJ Investigation Into Lansing Schools Draws State Response

The Lansing School District is receiving support from Michigan’s top education official after being identified in a U.S. Department of Justice investigation related to LGBTQ policies.

Glenn Maleyko, Michigan’s state superintendent, issued a statement saying updates to state health education guidelines are intended to assist local districts. He also disputed claims that the guidelines are mandatory state requirements, countering assertions made in the federal investigation.

Lansing is one of three Michigan school districts reportedly under review.

MSU Opens K500 Chip Testing Facility

Michigan State University marked a significant milestone Thursday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new K500 chip testing facility at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams.

The new site is part of a national effort to expand U.S. microelectronics testing capacity. The chips tested at the facility are used in spaceflight, defense systems, wireless communications, and autonomous technologies.

University leaders say the investment strengthens domestic semiconductor capabilities and positions MSU as a leader in advanced microelectronics research.

Burglary Reported at MSU Healthcare Pharmacy

Police are investigating a burglary at MSU Healthcare Pharmacy in the 4600 block of South Hagedorn Road.

According to MSU Police, three individuals broke into the business around 1:30 a.m. Thursday, stole property, and fled in a vehicle. Authorities are working to identify the suspects and the vehicle involved. The specific items taken have not been disclosed.

DTE Rate Increase Approved

The Michigan Public Service Commission has approved a $242.4 million increase in annual revenue for DTE Energy — less than half of the $574.1 million the utility originally requested.

Beginning in early March, the average residential customer will see an increase of nearly $5 per month on their bill.

Michigan House Republicans Propose Tax Cuts, Utility Relief

Michigan House speaker Matt Hall announced a sweeping tax relief proposal backed by republicans.

The plan includes a minimum $1 billion reduction in utility bills as part of a broader $4 billion property tax cut package. Lawmakers say the proposal would eliminate taxes on state education, business equipment, and real estate transfers.

The plan is expected to spark significant debate in the weeks ahead as lawmakers negotiate the scope and funding mechanisms of the proposed cuts.