business news

Sen. Ruth Johnson Proposes Prescription Importation System To Alleviate Medication Costs In Michigan

Senator Ruth Johnson has reintroduced crucial legislation aimed at establishing a prescription importation system in Michigan, offering significant savings on doctor-prescribed medications. 

Concerned about the financial strain on Michigan families due to skyrocketing prescription costs, Johnson emphasized the stark price difference between medications in the U.S. and Canada, with some drugs being up to 537% cheaper across the border. 

Senate Bill 563 proposes a Canadian drug importation program, requiring collaboration with the federal government to ensure safety measures. The move follows the lead of eight states that have already enacted similar laws, with six awaiting FDA approval. 

Johnson’s initiative seeks to provide relief to Michigan consumers struggling to afford essential medications, fostering accessibility and affordability.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Secretary Of State Jocelyn Benson Advocates For Electronic Vehicle Title Transfers In Testimony Before Senate Committee

In a pivotal testimony, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson passionately urged the Senate Transportation & Infrastructure Committee to endorse SB 533, a groundbreaking bill facilitating electronic transfers of vehicle titles in Michigan. 

Asserting a commitment to enhancing citizen convenience, Secretary Benson highlighted the Michigan Department of State’s progress toward efficient online services. She emphasized that passing the bill would revolutionize the department’s ability to serve Michiganders by providing a swift online avenue for transferring vehicle titles. 

SB 533 proposes the establishment of a secure electronic system, enabling seamless online transactions between private sellers and buyers, thereby eliminating the need for in-person visits.

The bill also seeks to empower the Michigan Department of State to issue electronic titles, further streamlining processes in line with modern digital practices.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Small Businesses Set To Flourish With $5.2 Million Federal Grant Awards

In a major boost for Michigan’s small business landscape, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II has announced the recipients of federal grants from the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Technical Assistance (TA) grant program. 

Nine organizations will share the $5.2 million funding to provide crucial technical assistance offering legal, accounting, and financial advisory services to bolster small businesses. Some of those businesses include ACCESS, Great Lakes Women’s Business Council, and ProsperUs Detroit Micro Lending. 

With over 60 applicants vying for a portion of the $94 million in funding requests, the competitive nature underscores the program’s significance. Lt. Governor Gilchrist emphasized that the initiative aims to empower Michigan’s backbone—the small businesses—to thrive, grow, and “Make It in Michigan,” fostering economic resilience over the next three years.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

MDOT Announces Inspection Of I-94 Business Loop Bridge Over Black River In Port Huron

In a proactive move to ensure public safety, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is set to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the I-94 Business Loop (Military Street) bridge spanning the Black River in Port Huron. 

The inspection is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. on Monday, October  9th, with an anticipated completion by Thursday, Oct. 12th.

During the assessment, traffic will be managed with one lane open in each direction. Some delays are expected due to intermittent full closures required for lift testing. This meticulous inspection is aimed at allowing bridge staff to perform routine checks, ensuring the structural integrity and safety of the vital transportation artery.

For more information, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Emerge Fund Opens Entrepreneurial Grant Applications For St. Clair County Businesses

St. Clair County’s entrepreneurial sector receives a boost as the Emerge Fund, a venture of the Community Foundation of St. Clair County and St. Clair Economic Development Authority (EDA), announces the opening of its grant applications. 

The Emerge Fund seeks to support entrepreneurs, early-stage startups, and existing small businesses within the county looking to launch or expand their operations.

From October 2nd to October 20th, interested parties can apply for grants with a maximum request of $5,000. The actual funding allocated will be determined based on the overall business impact and potential milestones. 

The Underground is a designated SmartZone operated by the Economic Development Alliance of St. Clair County and supported by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) that aims to foster growth and innovation in St. Clair County.

For more information, visit: startunderground.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Reports Thousands Of Vaccine Injuries And Deaths Sparking Controversy Amidst Covid-19 Vaccination Campaign

October marks Vaccine Injury Awareness month, and Michigan for Vaccine Choice (MVC) is amplifying personal stories of those affected.

According to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS), Michigan alone has witnessed 1,000 deaths and four times as many vaccine injuries, challenging the widely held belief in vaccine safety.

A staggering 2 million nationwide have reported Covid-19 vaccine injuries and deaths. Contrary to expectations, a recent study suggests healthcare workers experience increased sickness with each Covid vaccination, raising concerns about the strain on public healthcare.

MVC’s initiatives, including the Vax-UnVax Bus and the 4th Annual Vaccine Injury Walk, aim to shed light on the enduring impact of vaccine-related injuries and deaths. Amidst the controversy, MVC emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and addressing vaccine injuries.

For more information, visit: michiganvaccineinjury.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell