Here’s a weekly behind-the-scenes glimpse at some of the stories we’re following. Have a reading recommendation? Let us know at nina@planetdetroit.org.
EVs and union voters
Democrats are struggling to win over Michigan autoworkers in the lead-up to the 2024 election, with many workers disapproving of the Biden-Harris administration’s messaging on electric vehicles. Despite evidence that EVs create as many or more jobs than gas vehicles, Donald Trump’s criticism of the EV mandate has resonated with union voters, threatening Democratic support in this key swing state. (Guardian)
Losing a lifeline
Detroiters enrolled in the Lifeline Plan, which reduces water bills to as low as $18 per month and forgives past debt, must verify their income starting Oct. 1 to remain eligible. Households can recertify by contacting Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency, with no immediate deadline for reenrollment, but risk losing benefits if they delay. (Freep)
Heating help
Michigan renters and homeowners have until Sept. 30 to apply for the Home Heating Credit, which offers financial relief on heating bills. Eligible residents, including those earning under $60,000 or with disabilities, can apply through free tax preparation services, with the average credit amounting to $209 annually. (Freep)
Detroit energy burden
A study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) found that one in four Detroit households faces a high energy burden, with low-income, Black, and Hispanic residents most affected. Low-income households spend a median of 8.4% of their income on energy, compared to 2.9% for the average U.S. household, largely due to older, less efficient housing. (Michigan Advance)
No September rain
Southeast Michigan is on pace to experience its driest September since record-keeping began, with only 0.06 inches of rain so far and warm, dry conditions forecasted for the remainder of the month’s weather. If this continues, it could surpass the previous record of 0.39 inches set in 1877. (Freep)
Blocking radioactive waste
A Wayne County judge issued a temporary restraining order Wednesday blocking the import of low-level radioactive waste from New York to the Wayne Disposal landfill in Van Buren Township. Local communities filed a lawsuit, arguing the waste poses safety hazards and that they were not adequately informed about the shipments. Meanwhile, Michigan lawmakers, led by Rep. Reggie Miller, have introduced legislation to block the disposal of radioactive waste from New York’s Manhattan Project at a Wayne County landfill. (Detroit News)
Michigan lawmakers, led by Rep. Reggie Miller, have introduced legislation to block the disposal of radioactive waste from New York’s Manhattan Project at a Wayne County landfill. The proposed bills aim to prevent Michigan from becoming a dumping ground for out-of-state waste, highlighting concerns about environmental justice as the site is located near working-class communities. Supporters argue the legislation is critical to protect public health and the environment, while opponents worry about conflicts with federal regulations. (Michigan Advance)
PFAS 2025
The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 proposes deregulating PFAS chemicals, which are linked to cancer and widespread contamination, as part of a broader plan to roll back environmental protections. This could jeopardize public health by easing restrictions on toxic “forever chemicals” found in everyday products and firefighting gear, impacting vulnerable populations like firefighters. Meanwhile, U.S. lawmakers, in a Senate defense bill, are pushing to exclude fluorinated gases (F-gases), a subclass of PFAS, from regulation despite their environmental and health risks. These chemicals are widely used in industries like refrigeration and clean energy but are linked to greenhouse gas effects and contamination concerns. (Heated, Guardian)