State Rep. Mike Harris Urges Committee Action On GOP Plan To Revamp Troubled Unemployment Insurance Agency

State Representative Mike Harris (R-Waterford) pressed the House Ethics and Oversight Committee to deliberate on a comprehensive plan, introduced by House Republicans, aimed at overhauling Michigan’s Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA). The call for action follows an audit released Wednesday by Michigan’s nonpartisan Office of the Auditor General, revealing systemic failures within the UIA during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The audit disclosed negligence by the UIA in investigating improper payments, leading Rep. Harris to challenge Governor Whitmer’s assurances that the issues were resolved. “Our tax dollars went to the incarcerated and deceased just a year ago. Democrat policies have burdened employers, leaving countless individuals jobless through no fault of their own,” says Harris. 

The proposed GOP reforms focus on transparency, fraud prevention, and enhanced customer service for both unemployed workers and contributing employers.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Americans Anticipate Increased Take-Home Pay In 2024 As Higher Federal Tax Brackets And Deductions Take Effect

Effective beginning in January, Americans are poised to experience a potential boost in their take-home pay in 2024, as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) ushers in higher federal income tax brackets and standard deductions. 

The IRS, addressing concerns about “bracket creep,” announced these adjustments in November, with the intention of preventing taxpayers from being pushed into higher-income brackets due to inflation. 

In a year where inflation remains higher than the pre-pandemic average and the Federal Reserve’s 2% target, the 5.4% increase in tax brackets is expected to result in substantial savings for taxpayers across all income levels. As the adjustments take effect, millions of Americans may find relief in shielding more of their income from IRS scrutiny.

For more information, visit: irs.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Unusual Earthquake Strikes St. Clair County, Prompting Urgency For Residents To Familiarize Themselves With Safety Measures

On Wednesday, December 27th, an unexpected earthquake hit the St. Clair County area measuring at 2.5 on the Richter scale, prompting earthquake awareness and safety precautions for Michigan residents. 

While earthquakes are uncommon in the state, the recent seismic activity underscores the importance of preparedness, especially given Michigan’s proximity to states with a higher seismic risk. Notably, parts of Arkansas, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee lie on the New Madrid fault line, where earthquakes as high as 7.7 on the Richter scale have occurred. 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides a map highlighting earthquake-prone areas in the U.S. Residents are advised to recognize earthquake signs, including roaring sounds, violent shaking, and jolts, and to prepare for potential aftermaths such as structural damage, fires, land disturbances, and hazardous material releases.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Secretary Of State Confirms Donald Trump’s Inclusion In 2024 Presidential Primary Ballot

In a pivotal decision, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson declared today that, barring intervention from the U.S. Supreme Court, former President Donald Trump will be featured on the Republican presidential primary ballot scheduled for February 27th, 2024. 

Emphasizing her commitment to nonpartisan governance and adherence to the law, Secretary Benson, a former election law professor, highlighted the importance of securing democracy and ensuring fair and accessible elections. 

Michigan’s state Supreme Court, along with lower courts, has upheld the Secretary of State’s limited authority in determining ballot access for presidential primary candidates. Secretary Benson expressed optimism for swift resolution from the U.S. Supreme Court, underscoring the necessity of clarity as the nation gears up for the 2024 election season.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell