Lon Johnson ‘Seriously' Considering Dem Chair Bid

Lon Johnson, one of the possible challengers to Democratic Party Chair Mark Brewer, is coming forward publicly to say he is considering running, the first person to publicly dip a toe in the water.

Caswell: The Case For Not Expanding Medicaid

Sen. Bruce Caswell has re-introduced legislation that would prohibit the state from expanding Medicaid under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, but what the state will do on the issue remains in question until Governor Rick Snyder proposes his budget on February 7, another senator says.

Newsmaker Friday: Stamas Stands By Use Of House Rules

House Majority Floor Leader Jim Stamas said more representatives were allowed to speak on bills in the 2011-12 term than in years past - something he plans to continue this term - and amendments concerning policy were always allowed a roll call vote.

Audit: Children's Ombudsman Needs Timelier Investigations, More Follow-Up

The Office of the Children's Ombudsman is delayed when responding to complaints and closing cases, an audit from the Office of the Auditor General found. The ombudsman also lacks a proper follow-up procedure after it makes requests for action to the Department of Human Services.

Kildee, Peters Blast Suggestion On Electoral College

The possibility that Michigan may allocate its electoral votes by congressional district was blasted by two U.S. representatives as a Republican attempt to "rig" future presidential elections in the state.

Governor Declares Energy Emergency Due To Temporary U.P. Propane Shortage

Governor Rick Snyder on Friday declared a State of Energy Emergency in Michigan due to temporary shortages of propane in areas of the Upper Peninsula and Wisconsin caused by increased demand from colder weather, in addition to a pipeline repair in Rapid River.

Public Input on Energy and the Environment

The Public Service Commission on Friday said it would kick off the public input process regarding Governor Rick Snyder's special message on energy and the environment with a new website and seven public forums around the state.

Source : Gongwer News Service : Michigan Report, Volume #52, Report 17, January 25, 2013. Full access requires a subscription or a visit to a subscribing library such as the Michigan State University Main Library.