Nine years ago, 1 in 10 Michigan workers made minimum wage. Today, the lowest-paid workers tend to be young women, many of whom may still be in school.
Bridge Michigan
Posted inHealth and Welfare
COVID variant XBB.1.5 may be poised to sweep Michigan: What to know
The ‘most transmissible variant’ yet has hit the Northeast and appears headed to Michigan. Doctors say it evades immunity, but much remains unknown about the latest strain.
Posted inPolitical and Public Policy Information
Michigan Democrats, back in power in Lansing, eye quick action on tax cuts
First action is likely an expansion of a tax credit for lower-wage earners. Despite calls for unity and bipartisanship, Democrats and Republicans are already sniping over who should get credit.
Posted inEducation
More options for cheaper college if Michigan students fill out free form
Many high school students are choosing to forgo college, even as the state is rolling out scholarship and free-tuition programs to make higher education more affordable. Filling out a free financial aid form is the best way to determine the true cost of college.
Posted inJobs & Economic Development
2023 Michigan minimum wage increase may go higher: What to know
The state’s hourly minimum wage rose above $10 this week, but could spike to $13 as soon as February — depending on how an appeals court rules. Bridge breaks down what comes next.
Posted inPolitical and Public Policy Information
Meet Michigan’s new lawmakers: They’re younger, more educated, less diverse
The Michigan Legislature is full of folks who haven’t served in office, are Millennials or Gen X and come from backgrounds in teaching and business. There are more women, but fewer Black lawmakers.
Posted inPolitical and Public Policy Information
Whitmer sworn in for second term: 8 issues to watch in 2023 in Michigan
At her inauguration, Whitmer pledges to work on gun reform, tax cuts for seniors and legislation surrounding climate control. What else to expect from her next four years.
Posted inPolitical and Public Policy Information
New Michigan House Speaker Joe Tate: Democrats will seek consensus
The two-term lawmaker, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and former football player will make history as Michigan’s first Black House Speaker.
Posted inEducation
Michigan Democrats’ big education priority: Reform or kill read-or-flunk law
Proponents of third grade reading law say it helps keep schools accountable. Opponents holding students back is no solution.
Posted inHealth and Welfare
Where to get free COVID test, treatment before holidays
The so-called ‘tripledemic’ is prompting a whole host of health concerns as the holidays near. Here’s how to prepare.