Detroit Schools Legislation Faces Skeptical Michigan Senate
Detroit Public Schools A controversial GOP plan to overhaul Detroit’s schools has landed in the state Senate, and is getting...
Rick Pluta has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.
Rick was one of the first Michigan political reporters to write about “pay-to-play” fundraising, and the controversies surrounding recognition of same-sex relationships. He broke the news that Gov. John Engler was planning a huge juvenile justice overhaul that included adult-time-for-adult-crime sentencing, and has continued to report since then on the effects of that policy decision.
He co-hosts the weekly segment “It’s Just Politics” on Michigan Radio with Zoe Clark.
Rick is fascinated by the game of politics, and the grand plans and human foibles that go into policy-making. You will never find him ice-fishing.
State Agrees Not To Enforce “Gag Order” Law Against Local Officials
WyoFile WyoFile A federal judge has approved a settlement to end litigation over a state law that stopped local officials...
Court of Appeals Says University Boards Can Meet in Private
Joe Gratz, flickr The University of Michigan Board of Regents and other public university boards may meet behind closed doors as long...
Flint Mayor Presses Lawmakers for Assistance
Karen Weaver Flint Mayor Karen Weaver is welcoming President Obama’s decision to visit the city next week. She says it...
Health Chief: Ebola Distracted from Genessee County Legionnaire’s Outbreak
The state’s health director says an outbreak of Legionnaire’s disease in Genesee County did not get the attention it deserved...
Snyder, Schuette: No Right For Local Voters to Choose Their Leaders
Tom Arthur Voters don’t have a constitutional right to choose their local government leaders. That’s a central argument used...
Appeals Court Says Driving Drunk in Driveway Is No Crime
Brian Turner The Michigan Court of Appeals has ruled drinking too much and operating a car in your own driveway...
Criminal Charges Filed Related to Flint Water
The question’s been asked for nearly a year now – when will someone be held accountable for lead contamination of...
State Seeks Bidders for Mackinac Pipeline Study
The state has extended the deadline for companies to bid on work studying Enbridge Line 5. That’s the oil and gas...
Kasich, Sanders Stump for Michigan Primary Votes
Following a strong finish in New Hampshire, Ohio Gov. John Kasich (R) is betting big on the Midwest to help him fulfill...
Clinton: Flint Water Crisis “Immoral”
FLINT -- Hillary Clinton took a break over the weekend from stumping for support in New Hampshire to bring her campaign...
Michigan AG to Investigate Flint Water Crisis
Governor Rick Snyder has asked President Obama to declare a disaster in Flint, and to provide federal aid to help...