Updates About Press Releases

For the first time in almost ten years, Fitch Ratings boosted Michigan’s credit rating from AA to AA+ with a “stable outlook”.

In its report Fitch increased the credit rating to reflect Michigan’s higher level of fiscal resilience and diversified economy, as well as fiscally responsible budgeting and efforts to address debt. The state has also managed economic risks through increased fiscal reserves, paying down liabilities, and practicing conservative budgeting and revenue forecasting. With the rainy-day fund having been replenished, Michigan has maintained structural balance.

On June 28, the Michigan Supreme Court ruled 6-0 that the Attorney General’s use of a one-person grand jury system could not issue indictments, and anyone charged under the system has the right to a preliminary examination. This was seen as a win for the Flint Water Crisis defendants; however, the ruling did not throw out the suit entirely.

Solicitor General Fadwa Hammoud and Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy filed two sets of motions with the Genesee County Circuit Court. The first motions ask for the cases to be remanded to the District Court for preliminary exams in compliance with the Michigan Supreme Court. The second motions inform the court that the cases will proceed upon formal complaint.

All criminal charges that were announced last year can be found here.

On June 29, Governor Gretchen Whitmer joined thirteen other governors to call on Congress to make the advanced premium tax credits (APTCs) that were enacted in the American Rescue Plan (ARP) permanent.

According to the release sent out by the Executive Office of the Governor, this would help lower costs and protect healthcare for over 270,000 Michigan residents. Nationwide, the ARP’s expansion of subsidies, alongside other factors, led to a record-breaking enrollment period for Affordable Care Act coverage. 14.5 million more people signed up for coverage, which is a 21% increase from the prior year.

The letter can found here.