AGP Executive Report

Health Policy & Consumer Rights: Michigan DHHS is ending its long-used Michigan-specific Vaccine Information Statements after it couldn’t document federal approval, and now requires providers to give parents the MCIR opt-out form before any vaccine statewide. Public Safety Funding: Crime Stoppers of Michigan faces a July 1 deadline to raise about $250,000 or cut 90% of services, leaving only its anonymous tip line. Corrections Oversight: Women’s Huron Valley Correctional Facility is under renewed scrutiny after the third inmate death in under a month, prompting calls for Whitmer action and leadership changes. Regional Business Climate: GVSU’s West Michigan Current Business Trends survey shows growth still positive but with softer output, business improvement, and a dip in employment signals. Cross-Border Infrastructure: The Gordie Howe International Bridge opening is delayed again over “outstanding issues” tied to the Trump-era dispute, affecting Michigan-Windsor traffic plans. Energy & Infrastructure: Macomb County is moving ahead with an odor control facility to curb recurring sewer smells near Sterling Heights. Auto Supply Chain: GM may shift away from lithium-iron phosphate batteries for EVs, keeping LFP for energy storage while prioritizing lithium manganese-rich chemistry. Local Economy & Jobs: Michigan’s ITC begins aerial transmission line inspections across multiple counties through June 17.

Health Policy: Michigan DHHS is ending its long-used Michigan-specific Vaccine Information Statements and will instead require providers to give parents the official MCIR opt-out form before any vaccine, after the state said it couldn’t document federal approval for the old forms. Public Safety & Courts: Federal authorities arrested eight people tied to the University of Michigan after indictments alleging a campaign of intimidation aimed at UM leaders and the Jewish Federation over Israel-related demands. Cross-Border Trade/Infrastructure: The U.S. and Canada delayed the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge between Detroit and Windsor to resolve “outstanding issues,” pushing back a ribbon-cutting that had been planned. Auto/Construction: Dearborn celebrated the reopening of rebuilt Miller-Rotunda bridges after more than $70 million in updates, with traffic set to resume June 26. Business & Workforce: Michigan launched a statewide support hub for child care businesses, using MEDC’s Small Business Support Hub model to help operators with licensing, staffing, municipal hurdles and pricing. Sports Business: The Tigers fast-tracked ace Tarik Skubal back into the rotation Saturday, and claimed outfielder James Outman off waivers from the Twins.

Federal Crackdown on U-M Protests: The U.S. Justice Department indicted eight pro-Palestinian activists tied to the University of Michigan, alleging coordinated threats, witness intimidation and vandalism targeting U-M leaders, law enforcement and the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit. AI, Surveillance, and Politics: President Trump’s pick of Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence could complicate Capitol Hill talks over renewing FISA 702, a major U.S. spy tool. Michigan Weather & Power Readiness: Mid-Michigan storm damage and outages prompted Consumers Energy guidance for customers to prepare for outages and protect electronics. GM Battery Strategy: GM says it may scale back lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) for future EVs, leaning instead toward lithium manganese-rich (LMR) for higher energy density. Local Business & Legal Risk: Laketown Township set aside up to $25,000 for legal fees in a composting odor dispute, tied to a landlord lawsuit over eviction. Auto Supply Chain: Ford’s aluminum supplier Novelis restarted a hot mill after last fall’s fires, easing pressure on F-Series production. Health Care Snapshot: A new analysis places Michigan 22nd nationally for health outcomes, with stronger cost/access scores than results. Detroit River Safety: Twelve people were rescued after boats capsized near Belle Isle during severe weather. Home Improvement Watch: AG Dana Nessel warned Michiganders to avoid high-pressure contractor offers and verify licensing and warranties. Education Signals for the Economy: U.S. math scores for 9- and 13-year-olds remain below 10-years-ago levels, raising concerns for future earnings.

Inflation Watch: U.S. consumer prices rose 4.2% in May, the fastest pace since 2023, with energy costs tied to the Iran war pushing gas and transportation higher—raising pressure on the Fed and household budgets. Public Safety & Infrastructure: Chassell Township will smoke-test its sewer system June 16-18 to find weak spots and illegal connections, while Pentwater Harbor dredging is set to start June 9 to maintain safe navigation depths that support local tourism. Higher Ed & Security: Federal prosecutors unsealed indictments against eight people tied to the University of Michigan over an alleged anti-Israel intimidation and vandalism campaign targeting U-M officials, law enforcement, businesses and the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit. Local Business & Courts: A motion to dismiss a lawsuit over the Hayes Hotel sale in Jackson County was denied, keeping the dispute alive. Sports Business: Women’s hockey star Hilary Knight is reportedly headed to PWHL Detroit in a sign-and-trade with Las Vegas, with the trade freeze lifting June 16.

Immigrant Heritage Month: Michigan’s Human Rights Council-backed proclamation spotlights immigrants’ role in the state’s economy and civic life, as national debate over immigration stays heated. Transportation & Infrastructure: Detroit City Council urged MDOT to complete a “road diet” on Fort Street in Southwest Detroit, aiming to improve safety and neighborhood access. Manufacturing & Tech: Formlabs launched the Fuse X1, a large-format SLS system priced from $84,999 and shipping in Q4 2026, targeting faster, lower-cost industrial-grade 3D printing. AI & Mobility: AT&T and Derq are teaming up to push Derq’s roadway-safety AI into AT&T’s Intelligent Transportation Platform, with a Detroit conference presentation set for June 11. Auto & Energy: GM rolled out vehicle-to-grid capability across its EV lineup and is expanding sodium-ion and second-life battery plans, including Michigan-linked storage and battery reuse efforts. Cross-border trade: Canada’s PM Mark Carney says the Gordie Howe Bridge will open this week despite Trump-era threats, keeping a key Michigan-Ontario corridor on track. Local Business & Community: Alpena Township approved a site plan for Alpena Alcona Area Credit Union’s new headquarters, a multi-story investment tied to traffic and site-impact review. Legal/Policy: A Michigan Supreme Court ruling clarifies where some state lawsuits must be filed, affecting how DHHS can pursue Medicaid overpayment claims. Health & Food Safety: A Salmonella outbreak tied to moringa supplements expanded to 119 cases across 36 states, prompting additional FDA recalls.

Energy & Industry: GM says it’s developing sodium-ion battery tech at its Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center in Warren, partnering with Peak Energy to build a lower-cost, longer-life storage option aimed at commercialization by 2028—targeting the growing electricity needs of AI data centers. Auto Supply Chain: Magna’s CEO says the company is open to assembling Chinese vehicles in Canada, but only with truly long-term plans. Cross-Border Trade & Infrastructure: Canada’s and Michigan’s Gordie Howe Bridge is set for a ribbon-cutting this week, with traffic expected to start later this month—an economic boost for Detroit-Windsor commerce. Local Business Growth: Outdoor Adventures in Bellaire rebranded and launched new guided tours and custom bus trips across northern Michigan. Sports Business: The PGA Tour’s Rocket Classic will end after the 2026 event in Detroit, after Rocket declined its 2027 option. Women’s Hockey: Hilary Knight signed with PWHL expansion Las Vegas in a deal that will send her to Detroit via sign-and-trade. Public Health & Consumer Protection: Michigan AG Letitia James secured $36.5 million from CVS over Medicaid insulin overbilling, with money going to state Medicaid programs. Cybersecurity & Defense Tech: Brighton’s BrightlineIT achieved CMMC Level 2 certification, positioning it for regulated government and defense work. Workforce & Education: Aquinas College added AI literacy, cybersecurity, and esports/gaming administration majors for fall 2026 as Michigan schools race to match tech job demand.

PWHL Detroit Deal: Women’s hockey star Hilary Knight is headed to PWHL Detroit in a sign-and-trade with Las Vegas, with the trade set to become official after the league’s June 16 freeze ahead of the Detroit draft. NHL Trade Watch: Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin has requested a trade, submitting a three-team list limited by his no-trade clause to Vegas, Minnesota and Florida—raising pressure on GM Steve Yzerman as Detroit chases a turnaround. Michigan Unemployment Changes: Starting July, Michigan will require at least three work-search activities weekly to keep benefits, with added rules for appeals and more frequent repayment waivers. AI IPO: OpenAI has confidentially filed for a U.S. IPO, joining the rush to cash in on AI growth as investors look for the next trillion-dollar debut. Energy & Costs: AAA reports Michigan gas prices continue to fall, with the state average down 21 cents from a week ago to $4.17. Local Nonprofit Expansion: Read Muskegon is opening a new Muskegon Heights location and is using a matched crowdfunding push to close a remaining funding gap.

Data Center Backlash: A new report says over half of planned U.S. data centers sit in disaster-prone, high-risk states, raising fresh pressure as Michigan communities keep pushing back on new builds. Local Governance: In Lowell Township, a Microsoft rezoning request would add data centers as a permitted use in a light industrial district, after earlier moratorium talks stalled. Cross-Border Trade Infrastructure: The Gordie Howe International Bridge is nearing a potential Friday ribbon-cutting, with officials still working through final approvals and customs readiness. Public Health Funding: MDHHS is seeking proposals for elder and vulnerable adult abuse prevention services, with applications due July 1. Business & IP: Harvest Nano and Dr. Aharon say they issued notice confirming termination of goodwill and license rights tied to a West Michigan textile-recycling effort. Sports Business: Hilary Knight is set to anchor PWHL Detroit via a sign-and-trade involving Las Vegas. Energy & Costs: Michigan fuel prices fell to about $4.15 a gallon statewide as oil prices react to renewed Middle East tensions.

Data Center Backlash in Michigan: Local officials are pausing data center plans across Michigan, with temporary limits now covering more than 1,500 square miles—about the size of Rhode Island—after residents raised concerns about power, water use, and land impacts. State Water Funding Push: Michigan Sen. Sam Singh introduced the Michigan Water Trust Fund Act, proposing a 25-cent-per-gallon royalty on bottled water companies to raise about $300 million annually for drinking-water and water infrastructure, modeled after the Natural Resources Trust Fund. Border Trade Readiness: Sen. Gary Peters pressed DHS on whether Customs and Border Protection is staffed for the Gordie Howe International Bridge; DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin said CBP is “prepared” and ready. Connected-Car Security Bill: Michigan Democrats Haley Stevens and Elissa Slotkin unveiled federal legislation to block Chinese-connected vehicles from entering the U.S. through Canada and Mexico, citing data-collection and tampering risks. Consumer Pressure: Retailers say shoppers are still spending, but are starting to rethink purchases as fuel and broader costs bite—especially once tax refunds fade. Local Business & Community: Fob’s Restaurant in Crystal Falls reopened June 1 in its original location; and Marquette celebrated new accessible playground equipment at Giant’s Foot Park via Rotary and community partners.

Michigan Labor: A new forecast says teen unemployment in Michigan could hit 18% this summer, with about 45,400 teens expected to be out of work even as participation rebounds since the Great Recession. Courts & Corrections: A Jackson inmate is suing Michigan Department of Corrections staff, saying he was wrongly denied books about investing and that the denials violated his First Amendment rights. Energy & Infrastructure: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer asked President Trump for a major disaster declaration after April storms and tornadoes damaged homes, businesses and roads across 43 counties; separately, MDOT is closing the Jackson US-127 rest area for about a month for $7.3 million parking lot repairs. AI & Politics: OpenAI CEO Sam Altman met with Sen. Bernie Sanders to discuss public ownership in AI, echoing Trump’s interest in letting Americans benefit from AI success. Auto & Manufacturing: TechCrunch Mobility reports GM’s $900 million EV battery push, banking on new battery chemistry and a Michigan-linked cell development effort to cut EV costs. Consumer Pressure: Retailers say shoppers are already adjusting spending as prices stay high, with gas costs acting like a budget “catalyst.”

AI & Industry: OpenAI broke ground on its $16 billion “The Barn” data center in Saline Township, a Related Companies project for Oracle, as Governor Gretchen Whitmer and major business leaders attended—another sign Michigan is positioning itself for the next wave of AI infrastructure. Local Economic Development: Gov. Whitmer highlighted MEDC placemaking support for redevelopment projects in North Branch, Albion and Monroe, including turning a former hardware store into new housing and commercial space. Consumer Pressure: Retail executives say shoppers are still spending, but are quietly changing habits—especially around gas and discretionary purchases—raising the odds of a broader pullback once tax-refund boosts fade. Great Lakes & Jobs: Michigan’s Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week kicks off with a focus on stewardship and the lakes-based “blue economy,” including a free fishing weekend. Sports Business: The Dylan Larkin trade request is driving major NHL speculation, with Detroit’s captain’s next-team odds and potential deal logic dominating hockey talk.

Gordie Howe Bridge Readiness: DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin told a Senate hearing his agency is staffed and ready to facilitate trade and travel, but the contractor missed a May 1 sign-off deadline, leaving an opening date still unclear. Detroit Business Leadership: New SEC filings show some of the highest-paid board members at Michigan’s remaining public companies, with GM directors pulling in roughly $300,000-plus in cash and stock. Michigan Economy & Costs: GasBuddy reports E85 at $3.16 in Shiawassee County (vs. a Michigan average of $3.76), underscoring how fuel volatility is shaping summer plans. Housing Enforcement: A new Arizona law aims to speed up squatter removals to about five days, a reminder that property-rights fights are increasingly moving from courts to fast-track rules. Detroit Civic Spotlight: The Detroit Association of Women’s Clubs’ historic clubhouse is on the National Trust’s “Most Endangered” list, seeking about $500,000 to reopen after major pipe damage. Juneteenth in Detroit: Journalist Bankole Thompson will deliver the opening keynote at the National Civil Rights Conference in Detroit, tying media power to economic justice.

Bridge & Cross-Border Trade: The Gordie Howe International Bridge is “essentially complete,” but an opening date is still unclear as legal fights and final certifications drag on, keeping Detroit-Windsor commerce in limbo. Retail & Real Estate: Clinton Township is moving ahead with a major shopping-center redevelopment that will add a 76,000-square-foot Meijer grocery store in the former Big Lots space, signaling fresh jobs and investment along the Gratiot corridor. Auto & Manufacturing: Ford says prototypes of an affordable 2027 all-electric midsize pickup are being built in Michigan and tested on roads, even as it works through F-Series inventory disruptions tied to a supplier fire. Housing Finance: Wayne County Treasurer Eric Sabree is urging homeowners to enroll in the IRSPA delinquent-tax interest reduction program before the June 30 deadline, warning it could end without state action. Labor & Politics: The UAW endorsed Abdul El-Sayed for Michigan’s open U.S. Senate seat, boosting a progressive bid as the campaign heats up. Local Business Watch: Customers allege Great Lakes Dog Training took thousands for services they say were never delivered, adding another consumer-protection headache for metro Detroit.

Red Wings Shake-Up: Dylan Larkin has reportedly requested a trade after Detroit’s 10-year playoff drought, raising fresh questions about Steve Yzerman’s next rebuild move. Disaster Relief: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer asked President Trump for a major disaster declaration for April storms, flooding and tornadoes, seeking FEMA Individual Assistance for 37 counties (including Oakland and Washtenaw). Labor & Politics: The UAW endorsed Jocelyn Benson for governor and Abdul El-Sayed for the U.S. Senate seat, signaling a major push in Michigan’s high-stakes Democratic primaries. Cannabis Industry Pressure: TerrAscend’s exit from Michigan—plus subsequent cultivation closures—has intensified concerns that the state’s cannabis market is too competitive for many operators to survive. Data Centers & Water: Google pledged to replenish more water than it uses at data centers by 2030, including Michigan-focused watershed work. Housing & Growth: A new push argues Michigan needs fewer barriers to homebuilding, as supply constraints keep prices high. Sports Business: GM’s new Battery Cell Development Center is positioned as a key step toward lower-cost EV batteries and faster commercialization.

Auto & Energy Policy: Ford is testing prototypes of an affordable all-electric midsize pickup for a 2027 launch, with camo-covered vehicles expected to hit Michigan roads soon, while CATL says energy storage could reach half of global battery sales by 2030—an important signal for Michigan’s EV and grid buildout. Manufacturing Tech: Siemens is partnering with HighByte to expand its Industrial Edge ecosystem, aiming to make it easier for manufacturers to connect factory data to AI tools. Environment & Infrastructure: EGLE’s tire recycling efforts earned national recognition, with Michigan partners using recycled rubber in Ann Arbor road paving pilots. Coal Push: The Trump administration announced nearly $700M to support coal plants and exports, including a new export terminal project in Oakland, California. Detroit Business: Atwater Brewery is being reacquired by former owner Mark Rieth, returning the brand and operations to local control. NHL Economics: Dylan Larkin has requested a trade from the Red Wings, raising questions about roster rebuilding and draft-lottery odds. Housing & Inclusion: Oakland County broke ground on Auburn Oaks, a new “neuro-inclusive” community in Rochester Hills with 55 homes for adults with disabilities. Legal/Consumer: Michigan AG Dana Nessel marked Elder Abuse Awareness Month and highlighted resources and a June 15 5K walk.

Michigan Economic Development: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced state-backed redevelopment support for Monroe’s long-blighted 111 E. Front St., aiming to bring commercial space and two residential units back to downtown. Workforce & Industry: Moran Iron Works is expanding hiring across welding, skilled trades, project management and admin roles as the Northern Michigan fabricator ramps up marine, power, industrial and hydro work. Tourism & Community: Grand Haven’s historic Entrance Light won a $60,000 renovation grant, while Manistee’s First Street Beach was named the nation’s best lake beach by USA TODAY readers—both boosts for local business and visitors. Local Land-Use Fight: Fayette Township denied a special land use permit for Ranger Power’s proposed solar expansion, citing concerns about farmland conversion and the scale of the project. Energy & Tech Infrastructure: A Michigan lawmaker, Sen. Jim Runestad, proposed a one-year pause on new data center projects amid worries about rates and environmental impacts; meanwhile, Google and Intersect began building a 1-GW-plus co-located data center and generation complex in Texas. Sports Business: Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin reportedly requested a trade as the team misses the playoffs again, adding uncertainty for the franchise’s near-term direction.