budget cuts

Early this morning, the Michigan Legislature approved a roughly $80 billion budget for the fiscal year. State Senator Jeff Irwin is chair of the Appropriations Committee for the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. The Ann Arbor Democrat joined WEMU's David Fair and Michigan League of Conservation Voters executive director Lisa Wozniak to provide a snapshot of the environmental implications of the budget.

Efforts to combat income inequity and social justice have to have a strong foundational place from which to work. Literacy is right at the top of the list. Washtenaw Literacy is under new leadership, and it comes at a time when non-profits are struggling to find the financial support to maximize community impact. WEMU's David Fair talked with the new executive director, David Martineau, about the impact of the organization and where it goes from here.

The state budget hasn’t been passed yet, but all indications are that it will include significant cuts to social safety net programs. That will have impacts throughout the community, including at The Corner Health Center in Ypsilanti. WEMU's David Fair checked in with the center's CEO, Alex Plum, and discussed how he is preparing for the known and the unknown.

A U.S. appeals court panel has allowed President Donald Trump’s administration to block Medicaid funds to Planned Parenthood while legal challenges continue. WEMU’s Caroline MacGregor reports.

Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels (YMOW) plays a vital role in keeping seniors across the community fed, connected, and supported. As federal and local funding streams face uncertainty, YMOW is faces rising demand for services. Lee Van Roth discussed the challenges with YMOW president and CEO, Barbara Niess-May.

In response to the Trump administration's policies, the Washtenaw County Health Department has developed a guide to available resources for LGBTQIA+ people. WEMU’s Caroline MacGregor reports.

Officials are coordinating efforts to fight back against the House GOP eliminating state funding for arts and culture programs. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

Michigan public health advocates are painting a dark picture for what could happen to health care in the state under federal policy changes. Colin Jackson has more.

After months of waiting, the Michigan House passed the rest of its roughly $78 billion state budget proposal Tuesday. Colin Jackson has more.

6th District Congresswoman Debbie Dingell was joined by clean energy leaders this morning to talk about the negative impacts the Trump administration actions are having on the industry in Michigan. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.