State News

A new telehealth law goes into effect today in Michigan. It involves using telecommunications technology to offer virtual health services and to share health related information. Telehealth is a booming industry and there are many apps that link you with on-demand doctors that will treat you virtually 24-7. Under the …

Returning school schedule decisions to local districts–the House Education Reform Committee passed such legislation Thursday. State Representative Daniela Garcia is a Republican from Holland. She says the bill grants districts greater flexibility to implement school calendars and schedules in addition to removing both from contract negotiations.

Tourism and hospitality are the topics of choice at the 2017 Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference. The event is taking place through Tuesday. It’ll feature educational and networking opportunities. Deanna Richeson is CEO of the Michigan Tourism and Lodging Association who says this year’s theme is “Reinvention Through Innovation.”

The battle over assigning a letter grade to schools around the state has taken another turn. The update from Lansing Bureau Chief Tim Skubick.

Legislation adopted by the Michigan House would make it a felony to shine a light or laser at or in the path of a passing aircraft. Here’s State Representative Tom Barrett. The Eaton County Republican says recent incidents out of Metro Detroit called for introduction of the bill. Meantime, Michigan State Police …

J.C. Penney says it will close seven of its 42 Michigan stores by the end of the year. The department store chain announced 138 store closings Friday. They include stores in Midland, Battle Creek, Holland, plus four locations across the Upper Peninsula. Business editor Murray Feldman: Some analysts feel more …

Confirmation hearings begin today over the President’s pick for the Supreme Court. The Senate Judiciary Committee will be meeting with Judge Neil Gorsuch. So what will the Democrats be asking Gorsuch? Oakland University Law Professor Dave Dulio weighs. Dulio says there’s no question that Gorsuch will be joining the Supreme …

Has your child been vaccinated? Not enough children in the state are getting the recommended vaccines, putting themselves and others at risk. Now health care leaders are hoping to change that. Health reporter Dr. Deanna Lites has more.

Gas prices are up slightly in Michigan. AAA Michigan says prices went up about one cent to a statewide average of $2.36 a gallon. That’s about 33 cents more than at this time last year. The lowest prices are in Metro Detroit at about $2.35 a gallon. The highest are in …

SAULT STE MARIE, Mich. — The U.S. Coast Guard will continue with spring breakout operations on the St. Marys River near Pipe and Drummond Islands, beginning at 7 a.m., Wednesday. A U.S. Coast Guard cutter will conduct ice breaking operations to open the Pipe Island Passage, north and east of Pipe …