The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision to uphold an EPA rule indicates a shift in its climate stance. What does it mean for Metro Detroit?
Posted inAccountability
State says anti-renewable group violated campaign finance law following Planet Detroit investigation
The Michigan Department of State has found that the nonprofit Our Home Our Voice committed a “potential violation” of Michigan campaign finance law with its fundraising for a ballot question committee looking to repeal Michigan’s renewable energy siting law. The law could allow energy developers to overcome restrictive local ordinances that block large-scale wind and […]
Posted inNews
EPA awards $3.2M to boost air quality in Southwest Detroit
The EPA has allocated over $3.2 million to the Southwest Detroit Environmental Vision Project to cut diesel emissions and promote cleaner tech, focusing on upgrading or replacing old diesel engines and reducing pollution in communities hit hardest by pollution.
Posted inAccountability
DTE Energy ghostwriting comments to push $456 million rate hike
DTE Energy’s $456.4 million rate hike is under scrutiny amid reports that some supporting businesses may have had their comments drafted by the utility.
Posted inNews
New federal rule demands lead pipe replacement in 10 years, $90M for Detroit
The Biden-Harris administration’s new rule mandates replacing all lead service lines in drinking water systems nationwide within a decade. Detroit is already benefiting from $90 million for lead pipe replacement, aiding Michigan communities recovering from the Flint water crisis.
Posted inNews
Detroit residents have until October 25 to comment on action against Edw. C. Levy Co
Detroit residents have until October 25, 2024, to weigh in on a proposed consent order from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, which mandates penalties and a compliance plan for the Edw. C. Levy Company due to air quality violations at two local sites.
Posted inNews
Federal aid to rescue Michigan cherry farmers after devastating crop loss
Michigan sweet cherry farmers can now access low-interest emergency loans from the USDA’s Farm Services Agency. This aid follows the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s disaster declaration in Antrim, Grand Traverse, Leelanau counties, and eight neighboring counties, due to crop losses from erratic weather and pest infestations.
Posted inNews
What we’re reading: DTE scrutinized for executive bonuses amid outages
Michigan utilities DTE and Consumers Energy face backlash for executive bonuses amid ongoing outages, while US Steel’s potential takeover sparks environmental and health concerns, and Flint’s lead crisis and low teacher expectations impact students’ academic performance.
Posted inDemocracy
Could a Kamala Harris presidency spark federal action on drinking water affordability?
Monica Lewis-Patrick, President of We the People of Detroit, calls for federal action on water rights. Despite funding gaps, Sen. Kamala Harris introduced the 2019 Water Justice Act, proposing $10 billion to assist low-income households.
Posted inDemocracy
Arab American and Muslim voters in Detroit weigh Gaza and climate in presidential race
Arab American and Muslim voters in Detroit feel betrayed by the Biden-Harris administration’s support for the Israeli military, struggling to reconcile their pro-climate agenda with concerns about Gaza.