AG Launches Crime Victim Rights Webpage

AG Launches Crime Victim Rights Webpage

by | Feb 7, 2025 | Regional News

Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 6, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

AG Nessel Launches Crime Victim Rights Webpage

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel recently launched a webpage aimed at educating crime victims of their rights and guiding them through the legal process after a crime is reported. The webpage, as the Attorney General explains in a video, serves as a comprehensive resource, providing critical information to those affected by a crime.

“Ensuring crime victims have access to the support and information they need is one of my main goals as Michigan’s Attorney General,” Nessel said. “The Crime Victim Rights webpage will serve as a vital tool in empowering victims to report crimes, connecting them with resources, and guiding them through the legal process.”

The Crime Victim Rights webpage includes:

  • A list of victims’ rights;
  • Statewide victim support services and resources within the Department of Attorney General;
  • Information on crime victim compensation;
  • Guidance on victim advocates services; and
  • An overview of the legal process for felony and misdemeanor cases.

The Crime Victim Rights webpage can be found on the Department of Attorney General’s website.
Breaking down the federal funding challenges

Breaking down the federal funding challenges

by | Feb 6, 2025 | Transportation

 
MDOT header (SOM branding)Talking Michigan Transportation (TMT) banner with the Mackinac Bridge.

Breaking down the federal funding challenges for transportation

On this week’s edition of the Talking Michigan Transportation podcast, a conversation with Zach Rable, a federal policy specialist at the Michigan Department of Transportation, who talks about priorities for funding as a new Congress convenes.

US CapitolThe Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) will expire in September 2026, and members of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee are in early discussions about the next reauthorization and what it should include. Three members of the committee are from Michigan: Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids, Rep. Tom Barrett, R-Charlotte, and Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet, D-Bay City.

Some key points from an American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) analysis of the IIJA:

  • The IIJA reauthorizes surface transportation programs, with 34 percent more funding than the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act
  • The IIJA provided close to $500 billion for road and bridge programs in communities across America.
  • The act included 21 new DOT grant programs that will make targeted investments to repair bridges, improve the resiliency of our surface transportation system, and more.
  • These funds go a long way to address the $1.2 trillion, 10-year surface transportation funding gapthat ASCE identified in the 2021 Report Card.

Listen now at https://www.buzzsprout.com/1374205.

Stay connected by subscribing to Talking Michigan Transportation e-mail updates.
Oakland County to Host VTM Michigan 2025

Oakland County to Host VTM Michigan 2025

by | Feb 5, 2025 | Regional News

Oakland County to Host VTM Michigan 2025: A Global Forum for Automotive and Mobility Innovation
Post Date:02/05/2025 9:05 AM
  • This international business to business (B2B) forum, organized by Oakland County, Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and advanced business events (abe), will explore cutting-edge topics such as transport electrification and batteries, hydrogen and sustainable propulsion, connectivity and cybersecurity, autonomous driving, urban infrastructure and more.
  • Attendees will encounter a full program of expert-led technical presentations, pre-arranged B2B meetings to connect buyers, suppliers and innovators, exhibitions of cutting-edge technologies and solutions, and participants from around the globe.
  • To register, go to michiganvehiclemeetings.com.

Pontiac, Mich. – Oakland County, in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and advanced business events (abe), is proud to announce the second edition of the Vehicle & Transportation Technology Innovation Meetings (VTM Michigan), taking place April 23-24 at M1 Concourse in Pontiac, Mich.

This international business to business (B2B) forum will bring together leaders from the automotive and mobility sectors for two days of plenary conferences, B2B meetings, exhibitions and networking opportunities. The event will explore cutting-edge topics such as transport electrification and batteries, hydrogen and sustainable propulsion, connectivity and cybersecurity, autonomous driving, urban infrastructure and more.

“Oakland County and Michigan are leaders in mobility innovation, and VTM Michigan is a unique opportunity to showcase our successes on the world stage,” said Oakland County Executive David Coulter. “With a history of automotive excellence and a thriving ecosystem of advanced technologies, we’re excited to welcome companies and innovators from across the globe to the heart of Southeast Michigan.”

Learn more about VTM Michigan during a free upcoming webinar presented by the MEDC at 9-9:30 a.m. Feb. 12. Advanced registration is required at medc.cventevents.com/event/VTM/summary.

To register for VTM Michigan 2025, click on michiganvehiclemeetings.com.

VTM Michigan 2025 builds on the success of the inaugural event in 2023, which brought together more than 320 attendees, 110 companies and delegations from more than 10 countries. The 2025 edition promises an expanded event, offering attendees opportunities to connect with suppliers, manufacturers and technology leaders driving the future of mobility.

“Whether you’re a startup, a tier supplier or a major OEM, VTM Michigan provides an invaluable opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations, discover new solutions, and drive the future of transportation,” said Dom Holmes, director of Oakland County’s Department of Economic Development.

Attendees will encounter:

  • Technical Presentations: A full program of expert-led sessions on key challenges and advancements in mobility.
  • B2B Matchmaking: Pre-arranged meetings to connect buyers, suppliers and innovators.
  • Exhibitions: A showcase of cutting-edge technologies and solutions.
  • Global Representation: Participants from countries including Austria, Germany, South Korea, Sweden, the UK, the USA and many more.

Michigan remains at the forefront of the mobility industry, with 26 OEMs headquartered or operating technology centers in the state and a $304 billion annual contribution to its economy. The state is also home to the largest concentration of mechanical, industrial and tool-and-die engineers in the nation, making it an epicenter for innovation and collaboration.

MDARD Director Applauds FY26 Budget Recommendation

MDARD Director Applauds FY26 Budget Recommendation

by | Feb 5, 2025 | Agriculture

bob new header
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