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"The right to criticize government is also an obligation to know what you are talking about." -Lent Upson, first director of Citizens Research Council |
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Biweekly Bonus Edition |
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New #FactsMatter Podcast: No More Free Lunch for All Lack of State Budget Already Impacting Some Schools – and Kids |
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#FactsMatter host Guy Gordon chats with Craig Thiel, Research Director for the Citizens Research Council, who first wrote about the impact of state budget uncertainty on Michigan’s $200 million School Meals program back in June –before passage of the federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). Michigan’s two-year-old School Meals program guaranteed universal access to free school breakfast and lunch to all K-12 students across the state, regardless of their income status.
Thiel notes that approximately 150,000 to 200,000 additional students participated in Michigan’s School Meals program in 2024-25, compared to 2022-23, according to Michigan Department of Education data. “About 10 to 15 percent of K-12 students would lose access to these free meals.”
Find all #FactsMatter podcasts on SoundCloud, Apple, Spotify, Amazon or wherever you get your podcasts. |
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10 More Days to Purchase Tickets!
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The Research Council in the News |
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A vote to completely rewrite Michigan’s Constitution? What to know about the “Con-Con.” Michigan Public (August 27) Jansen: State must act on northern Michigan ice storm aid, Detroit News (August 25)
Whitmer concerned Michigan Legislature won’t adopt budget before October, WEMU Public Radio (August 21)
Legislative leaders, behind on budget, say they support docking lawmakers’ pay for missing deadline, Interlochen Public Radio (August 20)
Rep. John James sidesteps question on Medicaid cuts during Coast Guard station visit, Detroit News (August 19)
Labor Voices: Lawmakers must end stalemate, protect health care in budget, Detroit News (August 19)
Schneider: Regroup to update state budget estimate, Detroit News (August 19)
Stadiums in state budget? Michigan court will hear challenge to budget earmarks, Michigan Public (August 18) |
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On Labor Day, we celebrate all workers - especially the contributions of Michigan’s workforce, whose dedication powers our communities and future. We’re also grateful to our donors, funders, and supporters who make our mission possible. Please note: our office will be closed on Monday, September 1st, in observance of the holiday. We will reopen on Tuesday. Wishing you and your families a safe and restful holiday. |
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Help Power Policy That Works for Michigan |
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Our “Fact Tank” fuels better government through trusted, independent research. But it doesn’t run on fumes—it runs on your support.
Make your tax-deductible donation today to keep Michigan informed, accountable, and moving forward.
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Citizens Research Council of Michigan
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