Mar 07 2025 3 mins 1
Michigan's political landscape is evolving as the state enters 2025 with new leadership and policy priorities. The Michigan Legislature kicked off the year with Republicans gaining control of the House, while Democrats maintain a slim majority in the Senate[7]. Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered her 2025 State of the State address, emphasizing bipartisan cooperation and focusing on lowering costs, creating jobs, and improving education[12].
In economic news, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) released its "2025 Main Street Agenda," highlighting priorities for small businesses in Michigan[1]. The outlook for small businesses forecasts growth, with 67% of owners expecting higher profits and 66% predicting increased sales[3]. However, challenges such as workforce shortages and rising costs remain concerns.
The University of Michigan's Research Seminar in Quantitative Economics (RSQE) projects moderate job gains for the state in 2025 and 2026, with growth concentrated in healthcare, leisure and hospitality, and government sectors[8]. The greater Grand Rapids region is expected to experience slightly faster growth in 2025 compared to 2024, according to a report from Grand Valley State University[13].
On the environmental front, Michigan faces ongoing drought conditions, with 43% of the Midwest in Moderate to Severe Drought[9]. However, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's spring outlook suggests above-average precipitation for Michigan in the coming months, potentially alleviating some drought concerns[14].
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) announced the start of ozone season on March 1, running through October[19]. EGLE meteorologists will issue air quality advisories and alerts when weather conditions may cause unhealthy air for sensitive individuals.
Looking ahead, Michigan will continue to navigate challenges and opportunities in 2025. The state will focus on implementing policy changes, addressing economic concerns, and preparing for potential environmental shifts. Upcoming events include continued legislative sessions, economic forums, and environmental monitoring as Michigan works to balance growth, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.
In economic news, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) released its "2025 Main Street Agenda," highlighting priorities for small businesses in Michigan[1]. The outlook for small businesses forecasts growth, with 67% of owners expecting higher profits and 66% predicting increased sales[3]. However, challenges such as workforce shortages and rising costs remain concerns.
The University of Michigan's Research Seminar in Quantitative Economics (RSQE) projects moderate job gains for the state in 2025 and 2026, with growth concentrated in healthcare, leisure and hospitality, and government sectors[8]. The greater Grand Rapids region is expected to experience slightly faster growth in 2025 compared to 2024, according to a report from Grand Valley State University[13].
On the environmental front, Michigan faces ongoing drought conditions, with 43% of the Midwest in Moderate to Severe Drought[9]. However, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's spring outlook suggests above-average precipitation for Michigan in the coming months, potentially alleviating some drought concerns[14].
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) announced the start of ozone season on March 1, running through October[19]. EGLE meteorologists will issue air quality advisories and alerts when weather conditions may cause unhealthy air for sensitive individuals.
Looking ahead, Michigan will continue to navigate challenges and opportunities in 2025. The state will focus on implementing policy changes, addressing economic concerns, and preparing for potential environmental shifts. Upcoming events include continued legislative sessions, economic forums, and environmental monitoring as Michigan works to balance growth, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.
