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.
Michigan’s PFAS protections head to court: Clean water or corporate wins?
The Michigan Supreme Court is hearing a case that could overturn the state’s strict PFAS drinking water limits, hailed as some of the toughest in the nation. Chemical giant 3M argues the state skipped a key procedural step by not considering cleanup costs for businesses, but officials warn that scrapping the standards would leave millions at risk of exposure to cancer-causing “forever chemicals.” The stakes? Billions in cleanup costs for 3M and the health of Michiganders’ water supply. Read more at Bridge Michigan.
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PFAS detected in Metro Detroit’s water supplies
A Planet Detroit analysis revealed detectable levels of PFAS contaminants in 59 areas across southeast Michigan.
Michigan communities sue over state renewable energy rules
Local governments are taking Michigan to court over a new law that shifts permitting power for solar and wind farms to the state, claiming it undermines their zoning authority. The state says the change is necessary to streamline renewable energy projects, but critics argue it sidelines local input. The fight highlights growing tensions over balancing green energy expansion with community control. Read more at Detroit News and Michigan Public Radio.
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State says anti-renewable group violated campaign finance law following Planet Detroit investigation
Detroit Lifeline Plan users: Nov. 30 is the bill-saving cutoff
Detroiters in the Lifeline Plan, which lowers water bills to as little as $18 a month and erases past water debt, must recertify their income eligibility by Nov. 30 to stay enrolled. More than 26,700 households rely on the program, but if you don’t call Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency to confirm eligibility, expect your bill to jump in December. Read more at Detroit Free Press.
Dingell and Tlaib say, ‘Water is a right, not a luxury’
Michigan Reps. Debbie Dingell and Rashida Tlaib are pushing federal water affordability legislation to help struggling families. The plan builds on Detroit’s Lifeline model but takes it national. Read more at Fox 2 Detroit.
DTE drops $100M: Substations get a glow-up
DTE Energy is shelling out $100 million for new substations to fix metro Detroit’s grid issues. No more blackouts and more reliable power for everyone? Let’s just hope this investment actually pays off when storms roll in. Read more at CBS News Detroit.
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Would $10 million in fines push DTE to improve reliability?
Advocates say plan to improve Michigan energy reliability with fines and incentives may not be enough to influence utilities.
Michigan utility aid: Lawmakers want to turn the heat on
State lawmakers are looking to expand Michigan’s utility aid program to help residents behind on energy bills. With winter looming, advocates say this could keep the heat on for thousands, just in time. Read more at MLive.
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Can’t pay your energy or water bills in Detroit? These programs can help
Many assistance programs are up for renewal on Oct. 1, and recipients should act fast to avoid losing benefits.
USDA rushes green energy grants: Dollars on deadline
The USDA is scrambling to distribute $22 million in rural Michigan clean energy grants before deadlines hit. Critics worry the rush could lead to oversight issues, while others say the cash is critical for a green energy boost. Deadlines, dollars, and drama—it’s all happening fast. Read more at Michigan Public Radio.
Trump promises clean water, but will PFAS protections go down the drain?
Donald Trump says he’ll deliver “the cleanest air and water on the planet,” but public health advocates aren’t buying it. Critics fear his administration could roll back Biden-era efforts to tackle PFAS contamination and lead pipe removal, prioritizing industry over public safety. With his track record, many worry this promise is just more smoke and mirrors. Read more at The New York Times.