Government Oversight & Ethics
10 storiesReporting can include records-based investigations, audit analysis, ethics explainers and accountability timelines. Stories may trace open-meetings issues, procurement oversight or financial disclosures, but the central question is always whether public conduct, decision-making and oversight can be documented clearly and fairly.
Local Governments Shift Toward Leaner, Accountable AI Systems
Cities and public agencies are moving away from massive, generic AI models in favor of smaller, purpose-built systems that prioritize efficiency, transparency, and local needs. The change aims to improve service delivery and meet strict governance standards.
Michigan Lawmakers Consider Ban on Seclusion in Public Schools
Michigan schools reported nearly 18,000 incidents of seclusion or restraint during the 2024-2025 school year. A new bill could prohibit seclusion and require more staff training to address student crises and trauma.
Michigan Charges 5 Noncitizens With Alleged 2024 Election Voting
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has charged five noncitizens and one U.S. citizen in connection with alleged illegal voting in the 2024 general election. Ten other cases were closed, and 22 remain under investigation statewide.
John James Selects Jay DeBoyer as Running Mate for Michigan Governor
Michigan gubernatorial candidate John James has named state Rep. Jay DeBoyer as his pick for lieutenant governor. The selection, if confirmed, would mark a shift in the Michigan GOP's statewide ticket ahead of the November 3 general election.
Whitmer Opposes Consumers Energy Plan to Sell 13 Michigan Dams
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has formally objected to Consumers Energy's proposed sale of 13 hydropower dams to a private equity firm, warning the deal could shift long-term safety and financial risks onto Michigan taxpayers if approved.
Federal TANF Data Sharing Plan Delayed Amid State Legal Challenge
A federal proposal to expand data sharing on Temporary Assistance for Needy Families recipients has been postponed to September 1, as several Democrat-led states seek to block the policy in court over privacy and immigration concerns
Michigan Lawmakers Push for More Transparency at Public Universities
A 1999 Michigan Supreme Court ruling allows public university boards to make most decisions privately. Lawmakers and advocates are now seeking constitutional changes to require open meetings and greater accountability for how $1.8 billion in state funds are spent.
Hamden State Rep. Elliott Concedes Democratic Primary to Lamont
Hamden State Rep. Josh Elliott was defeated by Gov. Ned Lamont in Connecticut's Democratic primary, with Lamont securing nearly 68% of the vote. Lamont will now face Republican Ryan Fazio in the November general election.
Vandalism Targets License Plate Cameras as Michigan Debates Privacy
Communities across Michigan are seeing a rise in vandalism of police license plate cameras as lawmakers consider new regulations and residents voice concerns about surveillance and data privacy
Federal Election Security Review Halted After Voting Machine Findings
A federal review of Dominion voting systems in Puerto Rico was abruptly stopped after researchers found serious vulnerabilities but no evidence of vote tampering, raising questions about political pressure on election security work ahead of the 2024 midterms.