Dec 12 2024 2 mins
Michigan experienced a dynamic year in 2024, marked by significant developments across various sectors. The state's sports scene saw a resurgence with the Detroit Lions' playoff run and the successful hosting of the NFL Draft, which brought millions of dollars in spending to the city[1].
In government and politics, the Democratic-led state legislature made substantial changes to state laws, including record-breaking school funding, investments in affordable housing and clean water, and the expansion of access to contraception and legal protections for parents using assisted reproduction[1]. The state also saw a smooth election day, with notable outcomes including Donald Trump winning Michigan against Kamala Harris and Democratic-backed justices expanding their majority on the Michigan Supreme Court[1].
The economy saw consistent growth, particularly in manufacturing and clean energy, thanks to federal funding. The cannabis industry thrived, with dispensaries selling billions of dollars in weed and generating significant tax revenue for public schools and road repairs[1]. However, economists at the University of Michigan predicted a slowdown in the second half of 2024, with modest job losses and an increase in unemployment, but expected growth to return in 2025 and 2026 as inflation slows and interest rates are lowered[3].
In community news, the state made strides in education with increased funding, and infrastructure projects such as the expansion of fiber internet in cities like Traverse City aimed to attract high-tech startups and boost local economies[5]. Public safety measures included the signing of bills to outlaw the open carry of guns near polling places and absentee ballot counting boards[2].
Environmental and weather updates included predictions of a warmer-than-normal fall, with temperatures expected to return to near-average in November and December, and higher-than-average precipitation expected in the form of rain or snow[4].
Looking Ahead:
- The proposed constitutional amendment to toughen Michigan's voting rules could be headed to the statewide ballot in 2025[2].
- Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan has announced his intention to run for Michigan governor in 2026 as an independent[2].
- Bills addressing inequities in maternal health care are awaiting approval from the House before they can go to the governor[2].
- Advocates are pressing lawmakers to pass undocumented immigrant driver's license bills before the session ends[2].
In government and politics, the Democratic-led state legislature made substantial changes to state laws, including record-breaking school funding, investments in affordable housing and clean water, and the expansion of access to contraception and legal protections for parents using assisted reproduction[1]. The state also saw a smooth election day, with notable outcomes including Donald Trump winning Michigan against Kamala Harris and Democratic-backed justices expanding their majority on the Michigan Supreme Court[1].
The economy saw consistent growth, particularly in manufacturing and clean energy, thanks to federal funding. The cannabis industry thrived, with dispensaries selling billions of dollars in weed and generating significant tax revenue for public schools and road repairs[1]. However, economists at the University of Michigan predicted a slowdown in the second half of 2024, with modest job losses and an increase in unemployment, but expected growth to return in 2025 and 2026 as inflation slows and interest rates are lowered[3].
In community news, the state made strides in education with increased funding, and infrastructure projects such as the expansion of fiber internet in cities like Traverse City aimed to attract high-tech startups and boost local economies[5]. Public safety measures included the signing of bills to outlaw the open carry of guns near polling places and absentee ballot counting boards[2].
Environmental and weather updates included predictions of a warmer-than-normal fall, with temperatures expected to return to near-average in November and December, and higher-than-average precipitation expected in the form of rain or snow[4].
Looking Ahead:
- The proposed constitutional amendment to toughen Michigan's voting rules could be headed to the statewide ballot in 2025[2].
- Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan has announced his intention to run for Michigan governor in 2026 as an independent[2].
- Bills addressing inequities in maternal health care are awaiting approval from the House before they can go to the governor[2].
- Advocates are pressing lawmakers to pass undocumented immigrant driver's license bills before the session ends[2].