The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is giving out free naloxone kits at its local offices across the state to help prevent opioid overdose deaths. The medication can quickly reverse an overdose and has already helped lower overdose deaths statewide by 35% since ’23. Health officials say Michigan’s expanding access to naloxone is saving lives. Funded through national opioid settlement dollars, Michigan expects to receive more than $1.8 billion by 2040 to support recovery and prevention efforts. Residents can pick up free naloxone during business hours at the local MDHHS office while supplies last.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron’s St. Patrick’s Day gets an early start with the United Way of St. Clair County breakfast and raffle on March 17th at Freighters on Harker Street. The event runs from 6 to 10 a.m., serving up Irish fun for a good cause. Raffle prizes include Michigan Lottery tickets, a DoubleTree hotel stay, gift cards, a lawn basket, a massage, and monthly flowers. Breakfast tickets are $18, and raffle tickets are $3. All proceeds go to local health and human service programs across St. Clair County.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Several K-9 officers across Michigan’s Thumb region are hanging up their leashes. In Tuscola County, longtime explosives dog Blek retired after seven years and more than 275 calls, including one pipe bomb find. He’s now staying with Sheriff Ryan Robinson as a family pet. Nearby in Sanilac County, K-9s Phoenix and Zuzana are also wrapping up their service. Phoenix joined the force in 2021, and Zuzana in 2019. Both will spend their retirement with their handlers and families here at home.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Americans for Citizen Voting delivered over 750,000 petition signatures — far more than needed — to get a ballot proposal before Michigan voters this fall. The measure would require that only U.S. citizens can vote in state elections, mandate photo ID at the polls, and ensure regular reviews of Michigan’s voter rolls. Supporters say signatures came from all 83 counties, reflecting broad, bipartisan backing for election security. Lawmakers from both chambers called the drive a strong message that Michigan voters want accountability and confidence in their elections.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The St. Clair County Health Department is warning area cities with public water systems about possible changes to federal fluoride rules. Medical Director Dr. Remington Nevin says the EPA is under court order to review fluoride safety after new research linked higher exposure to potential brain-development issues. The agency could lower the national limit, now set at 0.7 parts per million. County health officials already backed a plan last fall to ban added fluoride locally, with draft rules coming soon for public comment.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet