Search for “transparency”
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Unions, Government Entities Team Up to Keep Information From Citizens
… spoken about the need for transparency, and media outlets and … public entities to avoid transparency because material is “untimely” … if not the letter of the transparency act.
And if the constitutional … review before release, transparency is cast aside.
Various … security grant money.
Transparency laws are important. In … more
Sunshine Week 2010: Several Kent County Schools Now Posting Checkbooks Online
Algonac, Meridian and North Branch schools also make spending records available to public
… this action and commend them for embracing transparency.”
Districts in the Grand Rapids region had … stewards, we should not shy away from providing transparency regarding public resources,” said Dan Behm, … for answering the call and providing spending transparency within the first two years of the project,” … more
Public School District 'Strikes Out' on Criticism of Charter Public Schools
Berkley School Board approves resolution with 'inaccurate' claims
… pertaining to such schools has “no expectation of transparency and accountability.”
The board struck out … charter and cyber-schools “has no expectation of transparency and accountability” also appears to be false … are 61 provisions in SB Bill 618 that address transparency, accountability and oversight of charter schools, … more
Wayland Schools Show Taxpayers the Money
… 3,000 pupils, Wayland Union Schools are providing a level of spending transparency that many of the state's larger districts do not.
Wayland has joined … was very important to him and the school board.
"Communication and transparency is important for our school leaders," said Melching. "Everyone supported … more
Comstock Public Schools Shows Taxpayers the Money
… work hard at being fiscally prudent."
The district also has a large "Transparency Reporting" link on its homepage, which shows budget and salary information. "Anything [the district] can do to build credibility through transparency helps people and the community make informed decisions about [school … more
Traverse City Schools' Post Union Negotiation Details Online
… dollars schools spend, this is a necessary step towards achieving real transparency and fiscal accountability."
The Traverse City Education Association said it was fine with the increased transparency.
“The Traverse City Education Association has nothing to hide. As … more
Michigan State University Employs Only Three People To Respond to 1,200 Open Records Requests
… State University needs to be more transparent.
“That, to me, is what transparency means: Being accountable, being responsible and communicating as effectively … The Detroit News in 2019.
But some may question MSU’s commitment to transparency, based on how many people the college have devoted to responding to … more
Berkley School District: Response
… have no expectation of transparency or accountability. To your … compensation is listed on any transparency reports. Your article [quotes … Center has long espoused transparency and accountability. Frankly, … rhetoric of accountability and transparency departs so dramatically … counts: accountability, transparency, equity, and quality. You … more
State's Corporate Welfare Agency Hasn't Faced Real Media Scrutiny
… that MEDC provide basic transparency. It wasn't necessarily … appreciate MEDC’s anti-transparency nature one has to go back … very roots.
Regarding transparency, the MEDC has never been … supposed to care about transparency) ignoring the situation … vigorously pursuing the MEDC transparency issue. more
The 'M' in MEDC Should No Longer Stand For 'Mystery'
… should be taken to bring transparency to the agency. And if the … required to provide more transparency there really isn’t anyone …
“The need for greater MEDC transparency is best summarized by what … also said that bringing transparency to the MEDC should start … Tone Deaf to Requests for Transparency
MEDC Boss Says Agency … more
Public Sector Unions Vague About How They Spend Dues Money
Many members have trouble finding out financial details
… When you get a lack of transparency, you can only assume that … he said.
The level of transparency varies by state because … of the lack of financial transparency. They formed an independent … nevertheless wants more financial transparency because the union still … spending and there would be transparency,” she said.
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See … more
Intimidation, Threats Take Place of Civil Discourse
Protesters taking to the extreme against their opponents
… state and local government transparency, didn’t release the names … the Sunshine Review, said transparency has become a “bastardized” term.
“Transparency is not about private responsibility … issues or donor lists aren’t transparency issues. Those are First … issues.”
Barnhart said transparency now is being used “to intimidate … more
Legislators Vote To Continue Special Subsidy Program Without Knowing Whether It Works
State Senate wants to extend $844 million program; bill heads to the House
… program was performing because of a lack of transparency.
Senate Bill 269 would extend funding for … Jones, R-Grand Ledge, said he supports more transparency on how 21st Century Jobs Fund money is spent. … is reviewing the reporting requirements and transparency for the 21st Jobs Fund and looking at some … more
Awarded Millions, Wind Turbine Company Defaults on State Loan
State gives very little information on companies it subsidizes
… bit in the future if a recently enacted MEDC transparency law works as intended. House Bill 4480 received … House Democrats
MEDC Questioned About its Transparency
Pressure Mounting for MEDC Transparency
MEGA Failure: Job Projections From Michigan … more
Legislators Shouldn’t Let a Political Celebrity Keep Them From Their Unfinished Business
… took a modest step in 2015 by introducing some transparency into the process. Law enforcement agencies … Michigan House passed an impressive package of transparency reforms earlier this year. The bills would … bills separately and advance the executive transparency bills. As a candidate, Snyder said he supported … more
Learn to be a Citizen Watchdog
Investigative journalism group hosts event in Lansing
… included.
More information can be found at the event website: http://citizenwatchdoglansing.eventbrite.com/
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See also:
How CapCon Uses Transparency Laws to Hold Government Accountable more
Challenging the Rhetoric in the War on Charter Public Schools
Q&A with the Democrats pursuing a moratorium on school choice
… with the exact same financial transparency requirements as regular public … addition to this board-related transparency and reporting, charter schools must and do provide financial transparency for parents and the public,” Van … hold charter schools to a new transparency standard is a ‘solution’ in search … more
Detroit Charter School Students Gaining Months of Extra Education Per Year
But coalition is critical of charters
… Schoolchildren, charter schools are also part of the problem. The report states, “Charter authorizers and charter school boards should improve transparency, focus more on quality, and better coordinate all charter schools.”
The report also complains about the removal of the state cap on charter schools … more
Bills Attempt to Shine Light on Government-Seized Property
… bill package is about uniformity, transparency, and accountability,” said Rep. … legislation is raise the bar on creating transparency. There are a few things we may … believe that we’re all interested in transparency.”
If enacted the legislation would …
Legislature Considering More Transparency For Asset Forfeiture
Civil Asset … more
National Group Gives Michigan a ‘D’ for Forfeiture Laws
Bills that would raise that grade languish in legislature
… bipartisan support.”
The bills raising the standard of proof (although not as high as what is needed for a criminal conviction) and establishing strong transparency laws passed overwhelmingly in the state House. They are now sitting in the state Senate where they have not been taken up. more
State Gives Billions in Dollars to Corporations – But Keeps Secret How Much They Get
Nothing prohibits Legislature from opening the books
… precisely how basic government transparency principles were avoided.
The roots … fellow lawmakers.
This is not real transparency, and it also appears to contradict … job to make sure the MEDC meets transparency standards.
“As currently constituted … Agency Tone Deaf to Requests for Transparency
There is No Good Reason the MEDC … more
Michigan Wants to Fine Schools for Indian Mascots But Not for Violating State Laws
School contracts violate laws related to racial preferences, right-to-work, and more
… have contracts which force teachers to give money to unions, establish racial and religious preferences, automatically deduct union dues, avoid transparency laws, and ignore merit pay requirements. All of those provisions are contrary to state laws.
Unlike mascot-gate, the Michigan Department of Education … more
Forfeiture From People Not Convicted of a Crime in Michigan Isn’t ‘Rare’
… charged with a crime and only 48 percent were convicted of a crime before they lost the right to their property.
This information is according to a transparency report filed this year and gathered by the Michigan State Police. People can decide for themselves whether that is an overreach, but it's certainly … more
State of Michigan plays peek-a-boo, redacting publicly available document
Now you see them, now you don't
… whether these redactions were legally permissible, but it is clear is that public bodies are not applying FOIA in a way that encourages openness and transparency.”
Whitmer’s office did not respond to an email seeking comment.
Under the prevailing wage requirement, which the Legislature repealed in 2018, … more
School District Saves $60K by Being More Transparent
A few minutes dedicated to government transparency was all it took to save one public school district tens of thousands of taxpayer dollars.
East China … this data on their websites.
“As this district has shown, government transparency has positive ‘real world’ effects,” said Braun. “Greater openness in … more
School District Allows Union, Employees To Exclude Material From FOIA Requests
Legal expert says they are breaking the law
… disciplinary issues that do not necessarily have to be provided under the transparency law, but that decision is made by the administration — employees are … union contracts from the public's view.
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See also:
How CapCon Uses Transparency Laws to Hold Government Accountable
Wayne State Removes Questionable … more
School District May Violate State Law By Removing Teachers Based Strictly On Seniority
Concord Community Schools superintendent and board ignoring teacher effectiveness in layoffs
… Contracts In Michigan Schools
Multiple School Districts Breaking Law on Transparency
How CapCon Uses Transparency Laws To Hold Government Accountable
School Districts, Union Working … more
Michigan Paid 'Stupidity of American Voter' Obamacare Architect $481,050
Representative-elect asks for investigation
… considered an architect to the federal health care law who said a “lack of transparency” and “stupidity of the American voter” were critical to getting it passed … people pay in and sick people get money, it wouldn't have passed. Lack of transparency is a huge political advantage and, basically, call it the stupidity … more
Asset Forfeiture Package of Bills a 'Solid First Step'
Citizens can have property seized by government under the lightest burden of proof
… R-Commerce Township, a former prosecutor, is the sponsor of one of the transparency bills. He asked McGrath what would happen if police found money and … Judiciary hearing:
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See also:
Legislature Considering More Transparency for Asset Forfeiture
Michigan Should Follow Minnesota’s Example On … more
Michigan’s Freedom of Information Act
True freedom, information, and action?
… Act — long overdue — to provide some additional standardization and transparency.” – State Sen. Mike Shirkey
Michigan’s Freedom of Information Act, … great start to modernizing the Freedom of Information Act to ensure transparency within the government and lower costs for the governed. more
Public Radio Misses Point of U-M’s Open Records Deceptions
University mischaracterized nature of documents to prevent disclosure
… positive result was this: The U of M agreed to hire more staff to fulfill transparency requests without charging for most of them,” Lessenberry wrote.
ForTheRecord says: Citizens who care about transparency in government should be even more concerned that officials at U-M misrepresented … more
Recent Corruption Scandals Involving Some of Michigan’s Largest Unions
Embezzlement, financial malpractice plague unions
… the auto industry, the 10 largest unions in Michigan that file federal transparency reports have had a net loss of 137,000 members, or 33 percent of their … Center for Public Policy has published a study on bringing financial transparency to public sector unions, where questions often arise about spending … more
The problem with pork
Michigan lawmakers grant $1B in earmarks annually
… behalf of one of his or her constituents. This results in a lack of transparency and accountability, and it can create an unfair advantage for some businesses … about its pork problem. Current leaders in Lansing vowed more government transparency, and they have yet to fulfill that promise. There should be a vetting … more
Effort to Short Circuit School Choice Laid Out
Charter moratorium bills becoming a full legislative package
… the new charter school "transparency and accountability" standards. … hand was charter school transparency and accountability.
“For-profit … press conference about transparency, but didn’t make the bills … be subject to the same transparency and accountability standards … schools are held to the same transparency standards as conventional … more
MEDC Feeling the Heat for Corporate Welfare Deals Coming Home to Roost
$9 billion in special deals projected
… others about its lack of transparency. An objective means of … on this should be basic transparency.”
Rep. Jeff Irwin, D-Ann Arbor, said the lack of transparency is a bipartisan concern. … agree that we need to have transparency. This is information the … challenges has been the transparency and the ability to see … more
MEDC: The Same Old Run Around On Jobs Numbers
… the people of Michigan a greater degree of transparency.
“True success is based on achieving real … quasi-governmental agency. However, the lack of transparency for which the MEDC acquired a reputation under … R-Saugatuck, has expressed his concerns about transparency issues at the MEDC more than once based on … more
Forfeiture Laws Take Aim at Major Drug Dealers But Hit Poor Most Often
New reforms would help
… to claim it.
Stevenson did go on to say the transparency requirements for forfeiture are good and provide oversight. That’s true, and transparency shows how forfeiture is actually used and abused … negative effect on those efforts.
Thanks to transparency requirements that went into effect in 2017, … more
Senator Says House Is Stalling Reform of Special Tax Perks for Filmmakers
Two bills already approved by the state Senate that would bring transparency to the Michigan Film Office are being held up by the chair of the state House … Moore and Subsidies: A Love-Hate Story
Lawmakers Tackle Film Credit Transparency
Michael Moore Inadvertently Makes Case Against Film Subsidies (Again) … more
Filmmaker Tax Subsidy Also Pays for Out-of-State Spending
… Movie Subsidy?
Hollywood Battles Michigan's New Budget Chief
Film Transparency – Just say No?
State Subsidies for Hollywood Dying in Iowa and Drawing … Moore and Subsidies: A Love-Hate Story
Lawmakers Tackle Film Credit Transparency
Michael Moore Inadvertently Makes Case Against Film Subsidies (Again) … more
School Choice Advocates Cheer Lift of Charter Public School Cap
Bill contains 'extra level of accountability' for school performance
… families
Critics of the bill claimed that it lacked quality controls and transparency requirements for charter schools. Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Detroit, said … leave at any time.
Rep. McMillin also argues that the bill adds new transparency requirements for charter schools that meet or exceed those of conventional … more
Bill Would Add Paid Members to State's Corporate Welfare Agency
Bill's sponsor says legislation likely to be changed
… including those discussed at the hearing that would bring about greater transparency," he said. "That's the advantage of having a legislative process with … Proposes Expansion of Corporate Welfare Program
Pressure Mounting For MEDC Transparency more
'Super Seniority' For Union Officials, Other Clauses In School Contracts Prohibited By Law
New report shows up to 60 percent of school union contracts have not eliminated forbidden provisions
… Contracts In Michigan Schools
Multiple School Districts Breaking Law on Transparency
How CapCon Uses Transparency Laws To Hold Government Accountable
School Districts, Union Working … more
In a Year Dominated by Stories of Strife, Republicans and Democrats Did Come Together in 2014
Here are a few of their success stories
… controversial. Controversial but important.”
House Bill 4480 (2013): Greater transparency gets two thumbs up – one from each party.
In 1999, then state Sen. … showed that Democrats and Republicans can both be supportive of greater transparency.
The bill was introduced March 20, 2013 by Republican State Rep. Tom … more
Charter Schools Cost Unions Millions in Dues
Every charter teacher costs unions about $1,000 a year
… Michigan’s charter schools, accompanied by allegations that they lack transparency and accountability. Then, in the run-up to the fall's general election, … despite claims to the contrary, charter schools are subject to the same transparency standards as conventional public schools.)
Outweighing right-to-work, … more
Civil Asset Forfeiture Reforms Head to the Governor
Bills take first step toward reining in potential law enforcement abuse
… unanimously passed a seven-bill package on Wednesday to require more transparency, and a higher standard of evidence before law enforcement agencies can … bills amending various law enforcement-related statutes to establish the transparency and reporting requirements; and two others that increase the burden … more
Public Records and the Office of the Governor
FOIA lessons from the rest of the states
… Information Act provides a compelling declaration in favor of government transparency: “It is the public policy of this state that all persons … are entitled … amending the Constitution to achieve the goals of full gubernatorial transparency. It is a worthwhile policy discussion, but one that can be informed … more
Striking a Balance on Environmental Regulations
'No more stringent' will benefit Michigan
… businesses compete, protecting Michigan’s environment and promoting transparency in state government. For nearly 14 years, the Mackinac Center has encouraged … regulation, while still protecting Michigan’s businesses, and promoting transparency in the regulatory decisions made by state agencies.
Once again, it … more
In last agenda item of year, Oakland County Commissioners gave themselves a raise
“If you want quality, you’ve got to pay for it,” commissioner said before voting yes
… this item is not on there,” Spisz said at the meeting, challenging the transparency of the resolution. “It’s on our packet and on our tablets here, yes, … no. “This seems to me a not-great way to do business, with very little transparency and very little notice.”
On the yes side, Chair Dave Woodward, a Democrat, … more
Film Subsidy Secrecy May Be Ending
… always been in support of increased transparency as long as a company's proprietary … waters down the effect” of the transparency bill. The concern is that “shall” … accomplish their intent to create more transparency.
“The legal thinking is this information …
Lawmakers Tackle Film Credit Transparency
Michael Moore Inadvertently Makes … more
Time to Hang(ar) It Up
… when government is allowed to be selective — and secretive — about their handouts.
Late last year, two bills (SB 796 and SB 889) calling for more transparency in the film subsidy program were signed into law.
And according to a recent article in MIRS (subscription required), Gov. Rick Snyder proposes … more
Analyst: Firefighter Overtime Reform ‘Watered Down’
… Cops While City-Owned Pools Swim in Red Ink
Thirty Percent of Shelby Twp. Police Salaries Exceed $90k
The Art of the Ann Arbor City Budget
A Transparency Fight in the Village of Armada more
State Supreme Court Failure to Rectify Disastrous FOIA Ruling ‘Must Be Fixed,’ Says Center Attorney
Legislature should act swiftly to restore the intent behind Michigan’s public disclosure law
…
Director, Mackinac Center Legal Foundation
or
Michael D. Jahr
Vice President for Communications
989-631-0900
MIDLAND — In a setback for government transparency, the Michigan Supreme Court yesterday refused again to hear an appeal of a lower court decision that misinterpreted the Freedom of Information … more
Transit Agency Demands $300 to Reveal CEO's Salary
…
Freely Available Information Hidden in MSU's Reply to Freedom of Information Request
Politician Staffs: Your Money, Their Secret
Government Transparency and a New Government in 2011
House of Reps Adopts ‘Open Kimono’ Policy for Salaries and Other Financial Info more
Command Cops in Sterling Heights: $119k Average Pay — Demand Labor Arbitration in Dispute with City
… Firefighter Overtime Reform ‘Watered Down’
Commentary: Legislative Republicans Get Rolled by Unions on Binding Arbitration
Lawmaker Seeks More Transparency for SWAT Team Raids
Ten Total Fires and $30K in Average Overtime more
MICHIGAN CAPITOL CONFIDENTIAL
Summer 2011 Edition
… Arbor Schools Find and Oust 200 Ineligible Dependents from District Health Plan
Super Speedway Notches Second State Subsidy
Lawmaker Seeks More Transparency for SWAT Team Raids
Ineligible Dependents on Ann Arbor Schools’ Health Plan Cost District $766K in 2010
Who are Your Lawmakers?
I’m Just a Bill more
Choice For Me But Not For Thee?
School district supports 'schools of choice,' but opposes charters
… states legislative actions have favored “private-sector vendor’s access to public dollars” and criticized legislation for having “no expectation of transparency and accountability as it establishes unlimited for-profit charters and cyber–schools whose governing bodies will or may be located in other states … more
The Importance of 'Sunshine Week'
… benefits than their private-sector counterparts.
Stories exposing these and other questionable policies demonstrate the importance of government transparency. March 11 – 17 is Sunshine Week, which shines a light on the need for openness in government and against the “closed books” mentality that plagues … more
April 27, 2012, MichiganVotes.org Weekly Roll Call
… adopting specified fiscal and transparency reforms.
Who Voted "Yes" and … must adopt certain fiscal and transparency reforms as a condition of receiving … must adopt certain fiscal and transparency reforms as a condition of receiving … adopting specified fiscal and transparency reforms.
Who Voted "Yes" and … more
Michigan's Competitiveness Depends on Defined Benefit Reform For Teachers
State could save $10 billion by the end of the decade
… Michigan and its local units of government will improve once this reform is enacted. This is because, as years roll by, it adds predictability, transparency and financial viability to public employee "legacy costs."
Financially and economically, this reform legislation is an essential measure for restoring … more
MLive to Start MichiganVotes-Style System
Media group to begin tracking legislative action
… starting a statewide bill and vote tracking service of its own. To that we say "congratulations." The Mackinac Center has long been a proponent of transparency and open government, and the more organizations working to keep Michiganders informed of what the state Legislature does and how it spends your … more
OtherCare not Obamacare
Health care event that looks to market for solutions to be held Saturday in Ann Arbor
… decentralized, empowered and collaborative."
The event is part of a movement looking to bring better care to patients through things like price transparency and direct contract care.
One of the featured speakers at the event is Dr. Kevin Smith, founder of the Surgery Center of Oklahoma. Dr. Smith has … more
Time for Detroit To Move Beyond Its Past
Mayor-elect Duggan must capitalize on changes already being made
… opening up the books, demanding that city employees (whose salaries and benefits are paid for by taxpayers) be receptive to requests, and bringing transparency to Detroit city government.
That would be a good start. more
Michigan Needs Better Forfeiture Laws
Bipartisan bills address issue
… unless a person was convicted of a crime.
House Bill 5081, introduced by Rep. Tom McMillin, R-Rochester Hills, would require substantially more transparency for asset forfeiture proceedings, including details showing if a person was convicted of a crime, the value of the assets and other information. … more
Westland Dropping 'Gatekeeper' FOIA Fee, Lowering Costs for Public Documents
Mackinac Center lawsuit filed against the city settled; public no longer overcharged for information
… also agreed to pay the Mackinac Center's attorney fees.
Westland Mayor William Wild told The Detroit News that the changes were made to promote transparency.
"We're glad to see that the city has agreed to change its policies to conform to state law," Wright said. "They were charging fees that were … more
Michigan Paying $860 Million In Select Tax Incentives, Subsidies
Favored businesses get preferences
… Fund
Despite Lack of Jobs and Repeated Program Promises, Legislature Proposes Expansion of Corporate Welfare Program
Pressure Mounting For MEDC Transparency more
MICHIGAN CAPITOL CONFIDENTIAL
Winter 2013 Edition
In this issue:
Teachers Sue MEA To Escape Union
Pressure Mounting For MEDC Transparency
Anti-GOP Professor Going Back to the Classroom
Celebrating the Past, Looking Forward
Court Ruling Supports State Law That Prohibits Discrimination of Non-Union Contractors
New Bill Would Shed Light On Asset Forfeiture … more
Select Business Subsidies, Endorsements Are Differences In 37th District Senate GOP Primary
State Representatives Wayne Schmidt and Greg MacMaster face off
… having the reputation of lacking transparency. Even legislators have complained … information from the MEDC to test its transparency? If you thought the results were … out publicly about the lack of transparency at MEDC. In fact, I was quoted … talking about the need for more transparency from MEDC and against the high … more
Democrats Call for Moratorium on New Charter Public Schools
Bill would cap school choice
… the following:
Require complete transparency, including financial disclosure … penalties for failing to comply with transparency and financial disclosure requirements. … including a lack of financial transparency and accountability, authorizers … performance, accountability, openness and transparency that public schools must follow. … more
NMU Wants $4,600 to Look Up and Send Salary Data
It's online at U of M; in new state budget, Northern Michigan University gets $47,998,400
… collect public data.
"Reviewing government spending is only available for wealthy citizens?" Andrzejewski said in an email. "Charging these fees - transparency taxes - is a direct assault on the First Amendment. Without government spending data and information, the citizen’s ability to review basic government … more
Northern Michigan Explains Why It Wanted $4,600 For Names And Salaries Of All Its Employees
… fulfill.
NMU Spokesman Derek Hall provided this response:
The first document request on July 24 was granted, in part, through the Public Act 108 transparency website with salaries and titles. NMU complies with all state reporting requirements through this site. The second document request for names attached … more
Unnecessary Regulations Prevent People From Working
New report shows licensing reduces the supply of workers by 20 percent
… occupational licenses could soon get an overhaul from a package of bills recently introduced in the Legislature. The bills would impose greater transparency requirements on licensing authorities and prevent them from denying a license for a past criminal offense not directly related to the field of … more
Billions In Michigan Taxpayer Dollars Flowing To Big 3
Shhhhh! State officials refuse to reveal how much
… company gets. It says the information is confidential under the same law that bans the state from releasing individual tax returns.
“This is a transparency problem,” said James Hohman, the director of fiscal policy for the Mackinac Center who did the analysis. “Your money is going to these companies … more
How Did Detroit Schools Spend $286,596 On LA Conference?
Answer awaits district’s overdue response to open records law request
… Schools Community District sent the staff of its Office of Strategy to a six-day conference in Los Angeles at a cost of $286,596.
Under a spending transparency requirement lawmakers added to the school aid act in 2009, school districts must publish such expenses on their websites.
Other travel expense … more
A Teacher Union Fact Check on School Choice
Nearly everything you read is wrong
… of quality, accountability or transparency in the communities where they operate. … of quality, accountability and transparency.”
According to a 2019 report, … be held accountable to the same transparency and quality standards that apply … demonstrate the accountability and transparency they owe Michigan students and … more
State Health Department Budget Up 25%, Still Failed To Track COVID Nursing Home Deaths
Blaming taxpayers' ‘chronic underinvestment’ won’t wash this one
… “History will repeat itself unless we learn from this lesson and modernize health data systems, invest in public health departments, and increase data transparency.”
Spending by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, or what the department calls “investment,” has risen steadily over the past … more
U-M Says ‘No’ To Open Records Law Payroll Request, Michigan Court Of Claims Says ‘Yes’
Records would indicate if university’s state of emergency pay freeze was real
… Michigan Court of Claims turned back the university’s claim.
Mackinac Center attorney Steve Delie commended the ruling. “Michiganders deserve transparency and responsiveness from our government and the public institutions subsidized with our hard-earned tax dollars,” he said. “We are pleased that … more
Schools, Agencies Use Prohibitive Charges To Shut Down Access To Public Records
People's right to know dies in swarms of government lawyers
… But the district’s response revealed the extent to which school districts and other units of government have made the law’s promise of government transparency increasingly a dead letter — at least for regular people who lack deep pockets.
Local governments have become creative about prohibitively inflating … more
CapCon’s top 10 most read stories of 2022
Michigan Capitol Confidential’s Top 10 stories of the year as measured by views
… the ground running at CapCon. His focus is for CapCon to become the watchdog of Michigan’s government and ensuring that it serves the people with transparency and accountability.
CapCon has covered important topics exposing corruption, government ineptness and frivolous spending of taxpayer dollars. … more
CapCon’s agenda: facts and solutions
The multimedia era begins at Michigan Capitol Confidential
… funds, information the university supplied Gov. Whitmer’s officials about COVID policy and political statements made by the university president. Transparency is an ideal worth fighting for.
We are residents of this state. We want our elected officials to serve with integrity or at least with respect … more
An invitation to help CapCon find the news
Michigan Capitol Confidential is going local in 2024
… than one occasion when spoke out when state officials allocated millions of dollars to a Chinese-based company for a factory. Sensing a lack of transparency, the people of the township recalled the officials who approved the project.
We will have a greater focus on education in 2024. As some state … more
Bills Would Demand More Info From Filmmakers Getting Special Tax Breaks
… deal has prompted two politicians to create legislation to bring more transparency in the state agency overseeing it.
State Reps. Dave Agema, R-Grandville, … Moore and Subsidies: A Love-Hate Story
Lawmakers Tackle Film Credit Transparency
Michael Moore Inadvertently Makes Case Against Film Subsidies (Again) … more
Predictions of Success Are Public - Failures Are Secret?
Michigan Economic Development Corp. very open with predictions of success, growing more secretive with news of failure
… actual job creation data over the past half year shows a pattern of less transparency regarding actual jobs produced by companies. There are varying reasons … PROGRAMS
Michigan #1 for Economic Development?
MEDC needs accountability, transparency - Livingston Daily Editorial
MEDC outdoes fiasco - Traverse City Record-Eagle … more
Firefighters or Mitch Albom's Movie Subsidy?
…
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See also:
Hollywood Battles Michigan's New Budget Chief
Film Transparency – Just say No?
State Subsidies for Hollywood Dying in Iowa and Drawing … Moore and Subsidies: A Love-Hate Story
Lawmakers Tackle Film Credit Transparency
Michael Moore Inadvertently Makes Case Against Film Subsidies (Again) … more
New Film Office Report Misleads and Shows Undercounting
… involved in the deal.
To their credit, the office is getting better with transparency. The original report contained two pages of little detail. The 2009 … Movie Subsidy?
Hollywood Battles Michigan's New Budget Chief
Film Transparency – Just say No?
State Subsidies for Hollywood Dying in Iowa and Drawing … more
The Good, Bad and Ugly of Gov. Snyder’s First Budget
… the state in a positive direction with greater tax simplicity, more transparency, less corporate welfare and fewer discriminatory tax policies.
Among … straightforward legislative appropriations, bringing a huge leap in transparency.
And there are real cuts in this budget, including revenue sharing … more
Cap the Film Incentives and Kill the Film Industry in Michigan? Not Yet
Film Industry Supporters Crying Wolf Over Governor's Plans for Film Subsidies
… Movie Subsidy?
Hollywood Battles Michigan's New Budget Chief
Film Transparency – Just say No?
State Subsidies for Hollywood Dying in Iowa and Drawing … Moore and Subsidies: A Love-Hate Story
Lawmakers Tackle Film Credit Transparency
Michael Moore Inadvertently Makes Case Against Film Subsidies (Again) … more
What the ‘Protect Our Jobs’ Amendment Would Mean For Michigan
The damage would be enormous
… nothing would stop local governments and unions from stripping down transparency laws by prohibiting the disclosure of information that would otherwise … Government Collective Bargaining Is Counterproductive
How CapCon Uses Transparency Laws to Hold Government Accountable more
Non-Christians Given 'Special Consideration' In Union Teacher Contract
Ferndale Public Schools provision could violate state and federal laws
… Contracts In Michigan Schools
Multiple School Districts Breaking Law on Transparency
How CapCon Uses Transparency Laws To Hold Government Accountable
School Districts, Union Working … more
Union Teacher Contract Has Illegal Racial Preferences Provision
Mt. Clemens superintendent says removing language would cost district in employee concessions
… Contracts In Michigan Schools
Multiple School Districts Breaking Law on Transparency
How CapCon Uses Transparency Laws To Hold Government Accountable
School Districts, Union Working … more
State Rep: School Districts Willfully Violating Law Should Face 'Criminal Charges'
… Contracts In Michigan Schools
Multiple School Districts Breaking Law on Transparency
How CapCon Uses Transparency Laws To Hold Government Accountable
School Districts, Union Working … more
Educators Facing Off In Michigan's 59th House District
Superintendent Roger Rathburn vs. teacher Aaron Miller in the Republican primary
… opposed.
Rathburn said he would support “practical and cost efficient” transparency reforms to the MEDC and would vote to eliminate the film subsidy program. … winners and losers when they do so.”
Miller agreed. He agrees with more transparency and the eventual elimination of the MEDC funds.
“The problem is the … more
Detroit Charter School Parents: Don’t Take Away Our Freedom to Choose
'Let them flourish' says parent about charter schools
… addressed some of the other concerns about charter schools, such as transparency and the difficulty of navigating choices.
“I don’t think it’s hard … but now lives in Eastpointe where her son attends a charter school. On transparency, she says the results speak for themselves.
She is shopping around … more
Cut Corporate Welfare Before Social Welfare to Fund Roads
Michigan debates spending MEDC or EITC money on transportation
… statewide. We believe that major reforms are needed at the MEDC to ensure transparency and accountability and to rein in corporate welfare.
“Retaining the … Programs
State's Corporate Welfare Agency Tone Deaf to Requests for Transparency
There is No Good Reason the MEDC Should Exist more
How We Use FOIA to Hold Government Accountable
Happy ‘Sunshine Week’ 2017
… your government. To show the importance of this week and government transparency laws, here are some of the key ways we’ve used Michigan’s FOIA law to … it can be done easily and cheaply electronically.
Without government transparency laws, it would be very difficult for reporters to do their jobs. And … more
State Spends $660 Million In Public Debt, But For What?
Nearly 30 years on, we’re still not sure what that money bought
… address.
This site is just a small part of a larger issue: the lack of transparency in Michigan’s Quality of Life bond issue. In the 1988 general election, … Life bond issue has a long way to go before it reaches the level of transparency the public deserves. more
DTE Donated More Than $840,000 to Democrats, Pro-Whitmer Groups in 2018
Consumers Energy was also heavily involved in politicking
… energy regulators reflects poorly on the state’s climate for political transparency.
“The fact that we’re finding out that a highly regulated business … document is indicative of why we’re rated 50th out of all 50 states for transparency and accountability,” Mauger said.
Consumers Energy, Michigan’s other … more
East China school board selects new member in private, out of public view
Candidates were spirited out of emergency exits, parent says
… Treadaway said. “Six of the candidates were local parents, concerned about transparency issues during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Treadaway said that after all … years, we’ve pulled our daughters from the local district. We asked for transparency and communication during the pandemic about how and what schools were … more
Axed State Agency Mysteriously Operational
… members of the House Appropriations Subcommittee scratching their heads.
State Rep. Dudley Spade, D-Tipton, said with the increasing call for transparency in government, they should have answered the simple question: Who is paying for this?
Spade said the committee wasn't asking questions he thought … more
Axed State Agency Mysteriously Operational
… members of the House Appropriations Subcommittee scratching their heads.
State Rep. Dudley Spade, D-Tipton, said with the increasing call for transparency in government, they should have answered the simple question: Who is paying for this?
Spade said the committee wasn't asking questions he thought … more
Attorney General Heeds Requests for Investigation of Embattled Film Studio
… Subsidy
Hangar42 Studios' Incentives Raise Questions
Film Noir
Michael Moore and Subsidies: A Love-Hate Story
Lawmakers Tackle Film Credit Transparency
Michael Moore Inadvertently Makes Case Against Film Subsidies (Again)
Analysis of Michigan Film Subsidies: Two Years, $117m — and No Film Job … more
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