MDARD Director Applauds FY26 Budget Recommendation

MDARD Director Applauds FY26 Budget Recommendation

by | Feb 5, 2025 | Agriculture

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For immediate release: February 5, 2025

Media contact: Lynsey Mukomel, 517-290-1734

MDARD Director Applauds Governor Whitmer’s FY26 Budget Recommendation

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) Director Tim Boring celebrated Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Executive Budget Recommendation, which supports the department’s ongoing focus on economic prosperity, regenerative agriculture and diversifying agricultural production across Michigan.

“Michigan agriculture is a $105 billion industry for the state, and Governor Whitmer continues to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to our farmers, producers and rural communities,” said Director Boring. “This budget recommendation provides the resources we need to continue to prioritize emergency response, support economic prosperity and maintain our national status as an agriculture powerhouse.”

Governor Whitmer’s recommended budget continues support for key MDARD programs including:

  • $5.5 million for protecting Michigan’s food supply: This funding will allow MDARD to implement proactive measures to have biosecurity response in place statewide to prevent and reduce the impact of animal disease outbreaks in the livestock industry.
  • $2 million for rural development grants: This funding will allow MDARD to expand the Rural Development Fund Grant Program, supporting projects that enhance land-based industries and rural community infrastructure, including job training, childcare, housing, and utilities.
  • $1.6 million for plant, soil, and pest diagnostics: This funding will allow MDARD to respond to soil and plant diseases and infestations by increasing testing capacity to provide growers with localized data and expertise to best protect Michigan agriculture.

“Investing in plant, pest, and soil diagnostic capabilities is increasingly important to Michigan potato growers and farmers of all kinds across state to ensure long-term sustainability and success of Michigan’s agriculture future,” said Damen Kurzer, Executive Director of the Michigan Seed Potato Association. “This budget proposal reflects the understanding of serving and supporting Michigan’s farmers.”

“Star of the West is working with farmer customers to conduct soil health testing on more than 12,000 acres, better quantifying regenerative agriculture impacts and lowering recommended fertilizer rates for improved grower profitability,” said Lisa Woodke, Sustainability Director at Star of the West Milling Company. “Investments in laboratory testing capacity and analysis expertise, tailored to Michigan’s unique production systems makes our company and our growers more competitive into the future.”

MDARD’s portion of the budget recommendation for FY26 includes total funding of $158.3 million, which includes $85.9 million in general funds.
New Consumer Alert on Illegal Gaming Machines

New Consumer Alert on Illegal Gaming Machines

by | Feb 5, 2025 | Regional News
Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 5, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

AG Nessel Issues New Consumer Alert on Illegal Gaming Machines

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is issuing a new consumer alert on illegal gaming machines to inform gamblers about the growing number of illegal casino-style gaming machines in Michigan. These devices, often called “skill games,” can harm consumers, businesses, and the Michigan economy.

“The gaming industry is strictly regulated to promote a safe and fair gambling environment,” Nessel said. “It’s crucial gamblers understand the risks associated with illegal gaming machines before using them. My office has worked closely with the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) to dismantle illegal gambling operations and remains committed to this partnership to protect Michigan consumers.”

“Illegal gaming remains a serious threat to Michigan residents and their communities. Unregulated machines often result in financial harm and other associated problems. Additionally, these illegal operations cause a loss of state revenue, depriving schools and communities of vital funding,” said Henry Williams, Executive Director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board. “The Michigan Gaming Control Board is dedicated to upholding gaming regulations and safeguarding the integrity of our state’s gaming industry. We will continue our efforts to eliminate unauthorized machines and prevent them from being repurposed for unlawful use.”

Illegal gaming machines resemble casino slot machines. They have multiple wheels and symbols, such as cherries, sevens, and bars, along with a pay table showing potential prizes. Players insert cash or credits and spin the wheels. Some machines let players adjust a wheel to line up the symbols. Despite claims of “skill,” these games rely on preset outcomes or random number generators, making them games of chance. Winnings may be given in cash, gift cards, or other prizes, which violates Michigan law.

In Michigan, gambling is strictly regulated. Under Michigan law, gambling contains three elements:

  • Money or something of value;
  • A prize; and
  • Chance.

Businesses running these machines may be violating the Michigan Consumer Protection Act (MCPA). Under the MCPA, the Attorney General can ask a Court to stop these activities and fine violators up to $25,000 for repeat offenses. Consumers may also be able to sue for money lost at illegal gaming centers. Using or hosting illegal gaming machines can lead to serious penalties, including criminal charges, civil penalties, and licensing risks.

To protect yourself:

  • Don’t Play: Avoid machines you suspect are illegal.
  • Check Legitimacy: If you see a gaming machine, contact the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) to confirm it follows the law.
  • Report It: Help protect your community by reporting illegal gaming machines to the MGCB or local police.

The MGCB encourages the public to report alleged illegal gambling by contacting the agency at 1-888-314-2682 (anonymous tip line) or send a message. To file a complaint with the Attorney General or get additional information, contact:

Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form
AG Strengthens Fight Against Auto Crime with Expanded Task Force

AG Strengthens Fight Against Auto Crime with Expanded Task Force

by | Feb 5, 2025 | Regional News
Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 5, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

AG Nessel Strengthens Fight Against Auto Crime with Expanded Task Force

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has officially expanded the Department’s Auto Insurance Fraud Unit, transforming it into the Auto Fraud Task Force (AFTF) to reflect its broadened mission to combat both auto insurance fraud and large-scale criminal auto theft operations.

Vehicle theft in Michigan has surged in recent years. In 2023, the number of reported motor vehicle thefts was 28,408, a 4.1 percent increase from the previous year and a 48.4 percent jump over the past five years.

As part of its expansion, AFTF has partnered with the Michigan State Police Metro Detroit Auto-Theft Recovery Team (MSP MDART). Through this collaboration, which launched last month, AFTF has embedded a dedicated prosecutor within MSP MDART to pursue high-level auto theft rings operating in Metro Detroit.

“With the rise of auto thefts across our communities, expanding the Auto Fraud Task Force is an important step to strengthen our fight against both vehicle theft and insurance fraud, crimes that impact far too many Michigan residents each year,” Nessel said. “Through this new structure, we are enhancing our efforts to dismantle these sophisticated, organized auto crime enterprises across our state.”

AFTF will also partner with the Department’s FORCE Team to investigate and prosecute auto theft crime networks. Earlier this year, Attorney General Nessel announced the arrests of four additional members by the FORCE Team of members of an alleged criminal organization responsible for the thefts of hundreds of vehicles in Southeast Michigan. The FORCE Team has charged a total of 14 defendants with criminal enterprise and auto theft offenses.
AG Warns of Imposter Scam Targeting Taxpayers

AG Warns of Imposter Scam Targeting Taxpayers

by | Feb 4, 2025 | Regional News

Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 4, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

AG Nessel Warns of Government Imposter Scam Targeting Taxpayers

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is urging residents to stay alert to a scam involving fake tax debt collection letters. The fraudulent letter (PDF) claims the recipient has an overdue tax bill and instructs them to immediately call a specified number to resolve the supposed debt. The letter threatens to seize a taxpayer’s property if payment is not made.

The fraudulent letter may appear credible due to its use of specific personal information sourced from the internet and public records, as well as an official-looking “DR-1024” form number. However, the Michigan Department of Treasury corresponds with taxpayers through official letters that use state of Michigan letterhead that embody both the names of the governor and state treasurer. These official letters are sent through the U.S. Postal Service, provide several options to resolve an outstanding debt, and outline taxpayer rights.

“If you receive a suspicious letter, do not panic,” Nessel said. “Call the Michigan Department of Treasury directly to confirm the information in the letter. The Treasury Department will never use aggressive tactics and will give you multiple ways to resolve a debt. It’s crucial to stay vigilant and take steps to protect your financial information. If you believe you are a victim of a scam, do not hesitate to contact my office.”

The Attorney General is reissuing her Government Imposter Scams alert and advising consumers who believe they received suspicious mailers to report them to the Federal Trade Commission and the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team.

Nessel also reminds consumers that government agencies will not:

  • Promise to increase benefits or fix an issue if a fee is paid;
  • Threaten arrest or legal action unless money is sent immediately; or
  • Demand payment in the form of gift cards, wire transfers, prepaid debit cards, cryptocurrency, or cash sent by mail.

To file a complaint with the Attorney General, contact:

Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form
2025 Black Lake sturgeon season results announced

2025 Black Lake sturgeon season results announced

by | Feb 4, 2025 | Recreation

 
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DNR News
Feb. 4, 2025
Contact: Neal Godby, 231-340-2621 or Marcee Wardell, 517-855-1604

2025 Black Lake sturgeon season results announced

After only 17 minutes of fishing, this year’s sturgeon season on Black Lake ended at 8:17 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 1. After only 17 minutes of fishing, this year’s sturgeon season on Black Lake (in Cheboygan and Presque Isle counties) ended at 8:17 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 1. The season, which included spearing and hook-and-line fishing, was scheduled to run Feb. 1-5, or until the harvest quota of six lake sturgeon had been reached.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources set the harvest limit for the season at six fish, though anglers were allocated a season quota of seven sturgeon by agreement with tribal governments. This limit was placed to accommodate the expected number of anglers and anticipate the possibility of near simultaneous harvest of more than one fish. Such a scenario occurred this year, as a seventh fish was harvested before notification of the season closure could be sent out.

There were 797 registered anglers this year. The harvested sturgeon ranged in size from 43.5 inches to 64 inches long and weighed 18.2 pounds to 78.3 pounds.

  • The first fish was a 45.7-inch sturgeon that weighed 18.8 pounds.
  • Fish number two was a 43.5-inch sturgeon that weighed 18.2 pounds.
  • Fish three was a 46.1-inch sturgeon that weighed 19 pounds.
  • Fish four was a 64-inch female that weighed 78.3 pounds.
  • The fifth fish was a 56.7-inch fish that weighed 41.9 pounds.
  • The sixth fish was a 51-inch fish that weighed 25.5 pounds.
  • The seventh fish was a 60.5-inch fish that weighed 47.8 pounds.
The harvested sturgeon ranged in size from 43.5 inches to 64 inches long and weighed 18.2 pounds to 78.3 pounds.Only two of the harvested fish had been captured before by Michigan State University and the DNR during spring spawning runs in the Black River or during past surveys of Black Lake. The harvested 45.7-inch fish was captured and tagged during the 2023 netting survey of Black Lake, while the 64-inch fish was originally captured in the river in 2010. Besides the 64-inch female, which was captured previously during the spawning run, the sex of these fish is not yet known and will be determined using DNA from fin clips collected when the fish were registered.

Participating anglers were notified of the season closure in a variety of ways, including text alerts and ice shanty visits from DNR personnel. All methods were used to indicate the season’s end within minutes of the final fish being harvested. DNR law enforcement officials and other DNR personnel were embedded in the on-ice fishing communities and were able to quickly and safely report harvested fish this year, as well as to quickly contact all lake sturgeon anglers on the ice to close the season.

Rehabilitation of lake sturgeon in the Cheboygan River watershed is a cooperative effort involving the DNR, the Black Lake Chapter of Sturgeon For Tomorrow, Michigan State University, Tower-Kleber Limited Partnership, the Bay Mills Indian Community, the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, the Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians and the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians.

For more information on lake sturgeon in Michigan, visit Michigan.gov/Sturgeon. To learn more about all fishing opportunities statewide, go to Michigan.gov/Fishing.

Note to editors: The accompanying photos are available below for download. Caption information follows.

  • Large sturgeon: The 2025 Black Lake sturgeon season ended after only 17 minutes of fishing, at 8:17 a.m. on Feb. 1.
  • Successful angler and sturgeon: This season’s harvested sturgeon ranged in size from 43.5 inches to 64 inches long and weighed 18.2 pounds to 78.3 pounds.