As we begin to settle into the new year, the economy in America, and right here in Washtenaw County, is facing some uncertainties. On this month's edition of "Washtenaw Business Lens," we explore the issues and potential local impacts. WEMU's David Fair was joined by Andy LaBarre from the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Regional Chamber and Eastern Michigan University Associate Professor of Economics, Dr. Amanda Stype for a look at the business year ahead.

Ann Arbor Congresswoman Debbie Dingell says she’s delighted the U.S. House has voted to extend Affordable Health Care tax credits for three years. The bill passed Thursday on a vote of 230-196. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

Democratic 47th District House Representative Carrie Rheingans is encouraging her local constituents to be politically conscious this election year. WEMU’s Ana Longoria reports.

The Michigan Court of Appeals has ruled the University of Michigan does not have to share research videos of experiments on mice with an animal rights group. We have more from Rick Pluta.

Jocelyn Benson, Michigan's Secretary of State and a Democratic candidate for governor, is unveiling a health policy vision she says focuses on access, affordability and fairness. Colin Jackson has more.

Katie Scott has been re-elected as chair of the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners. Justin Hodge has been re-elected vice-chair. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

In a move that has sparked global and national debate, including here in Washtenaw County, President Donald Trump said the United States is “going to run” Venezuela following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. The couple has since pleaded not guilty to narcoterrorism and other charges. Javed Ali is an associate professor of practice at Ann Arbor’s Ford School of Public Policy and a former senior U.S. government counterterrorism official. He offers insight into a situation that raises questions about the legitimacy of U.S. power abroad in a conversation with WEMU's Caroline MacGregor.

The City of Chelsea is seeing early success with its community social worker pilot program. Goals are now in place for the program’s second and final year with hopes that it could be extended. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the story.

We're one week into 2026 now, and some great movies are coming along with it! WEMU's David Fair and Nick Alderink from Marquee Arts discussed the latest films and special screenings available at your favorite movie houses!

Ypsilanti residents living near a man’s over-30-hour standoff with police are demanding answers as to why such dramatic tactics were used to end a mental health crisis. He was arrested unharmed. The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department led the situation. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

The Washtenaw County Health Department is standing by its recommended childhood vaccination schedule, which includes 17 shots. That differs from recent guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which suggests children need only 11 vaccines. WEMU’s Ana Longoria reports.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is appealing a recent federal court decision on an oil and gas pipeline that runs through the Straits of Mackinac. Colin Jackson has more