Federal Laws and Policy Programs
19 stories
Michigan Man Sentenced in $2.3 Million COVID Loan Fraud
Jabari Long was sentenced in Detroit after admitting he used a nearly nonexistent construction company to secure more than $2.3 million in pandemic-era loans and spent part of the money on a Beverly Hills home.
More Than 53,000 Michigan Children Lose SNAP Benefits
More than 167,000 Michigan residents have lost SNAP benefits, including over 53,000 children. Food pantries report rising demand, while schools may face higher meal costs.
Farmington Hills man admits to $2.3 million PPP loan fraud
Jawan Simpson pleaded guilty to wire fraud after federal officials said he used false tax documents to secure more than $2 million in Paycheck Protection Program loans for clients and associates.
Federal judge throws out Michigan antitrust suit against oil giants
A federal judge in Michigan has tossed out the state's antitrust case against BP, Chevron, Exxon, Shell, and the American Petroleum Institute, ruling the alleged impact on energy prices is too distant to support damages or an injunction.
Six Charged in Michigan COVID Loan Fraud Sweep Targeting $8 Million
Federal prosecutors have charged six individuals in Michigan with COVID-era loan fraud totaling $8.2 million as part of a national crackdown that has identified over $245 million in intended losses.
House Passes Water Infrastructure Bill, Bringing $115 Million to West Michigan
The U.S. House has approved the Water Resources Development Act 2026, which includes $115 million for water infrastructure projects in Kent, Ottawa, and Muskegon counties, along with new support for Muskegon Heights and the Muskegon River.
Michigan Farm Bureau Presses Washington for Clear Support Amid Rising Imports and Policy Shifts
Michigan Farm Bureau President Ben LaCross is urging federal officials to take a clear stand for American farmers, citing policy confusion and growing imports as threats to Michigan agriculture and food security.
Federal Court Blocks Trump Order to Keep Michigan Coal Plant Running
A federal appeals court has struck down the Trump administration's emergency order requiring the J.H. Campbell Generating Plant in Michigan to stay open past its planned retirement, citing lack of legal grounds and high costs for local ratepayers.
Fact Check: Did John James Vote to Raise Health Costs in Michigan?
As Michigan's gubernatorial race heats up, claims about U.S. Rep. John James' voting record on healthcare costs have become a central issue, with both campaigns pointing to recent legislation and premium increases affecting hundreds of thousands of residents.
Federal Judges Increase Security Measures Amid Rising Threats
Federal judges across the U.S. are taking new steps to protect themselves and their families as threats and harassment rise, with recent studies showing a 57% increase in serious security incidents over the past year
Arkansas to Receive $172 Million in Meta Settlement Over Child Safety
Arkansas will gain at least $172 million from a multistate settlement with Meta over online child safety, while several lawsuits against other social media companies-including TikTok, Google, and Snapchat-remain active in state and federal courts
Most States Progress on Website Accessibility, But Gaps Remain
A new report finds most states are on track to meet federal website accessibility rules by 2027, but many lack resources to fully investigate and fix issues, raising concerns as the deadline approaches
G20 Finance Leaders Meet in Asheville Amid U.S. Tariff and Iran Tensions
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is hosting G20 finance ministers in Asheville, North Carolina, as the U.S. seeks support on Iran and faces strained trade relations with key allies. The meetings follow renewed hostilities and recent hurricane recovery efforts.
Farmington Schools Employee Charged With Embezzling Over $100,000
A longtime Farmington Public Schools staff member faces felony charges after being accused of embezzling more than $100,000, including federal grant funds intended to support students experiencing homelessness. The district says services were not disrupted.
Federal Agency Clarifies Hospital Data Sharing for Injury Surveillance
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has confirmed that hospital participation in its updated injury surveillance system will remain voluntary, following concerns from hospital leaders and privacy advocates about patient data security and federal requirements
Michigan Education Leaders Urge State to Reject Federal Voucher Plan
Education experts in Michigan are calling on state officials to opt out of a proposed federal voucher program, warning it could destabilize public schools and divert resources from students and educators across the state.
South Dakota Local Governments Face Cybersecurity Funding Deadline
South Dakota's $7 million SecureSD program, which helps local governments defend against cyberattacks, will run out of state funding in 2028, leaving counties and cities to cover ongoing cybersecurity costs themselves
22 States Challenge DHS Subpoena for Trucker License Data
A coalition of 22 states is seeking to block a federal subpoena that would give the Department of Homeland Security access to millions of commercial driver's license records, raising concerns about privacy and federal overreach
Flock Safety Cuts Data Retention as Cities Drop License Plate Cameras
Flock Safety is reducing its recommended data retention period and adding new oversight tools after more than 50 U.S. communities canceled or suspended use of its automated license plate reader cameras in 2026