UAW strike aims to start to remedy this : Time was, Michigan was the envy of its Midwestern neighbors, boasting enviable incomes and giving birth to the middle class. Those days are over, Ron French writes, explaining that new data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that personal income in Michigan last year hit the lowest mark in history compared to the U.S. average.

Happy Friday reader, Time was, Michigan was the envy of its Midwestern neighbors, boasting enviable incomes and giving birth to the middle class. Those days are over, Ron French writes, explaining that new data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that personal income in Michigan last year hit the lowest mark in history compared to the U.S. average. The average income of Michigan’s 10 million residents was $57,038, below the national average of $65,470, and lowest among states in the Midwest. Ranking 8th among states in 1953 for personal income, Michigan now ranks 39th. “I just think it’s shocking,” said Lou Glazer, president of Michigan Future, Inc. “It’s the culmination of 40 years of decline, irrespective of what party is in charge in Lansing or Washington.” No doubt, the numbers are depressing, but experts say they hope the data is a clarion wake-up call to diversify the economy and lure new residents to a state whose population has stagnated for decades. Here’s what else is happening: A federal trial will determine whether state legislative maps discriminate against Black voters by extending Detroit state House and Senate districts into predominantly white suburbs. It’s an important case. Here’s what to know. Even amid worries about the impact of the United Auto Workers strike, electric vehicle manufacturer LG Energy Solution is planning to grow again in Holland and is seeking state tax breaks for a $3 billion expansion. Speaking of the strike, General Motors Corp. has offered its sixth counterproposal to the UAW, whose President Shawn Fain expects to offer an update on the walkout at 2 p.m. today. New state and philanthropic funds mean low-income families who use Michigan’s Double Up Food Bucks program — which matches produce purchases — can now earn as much as $20 a day for fruits and vegetables at participating stores and markets. Make sure to return to Bridge this afternoon for the latest on the strike. And be sure to have a wonderful weekend and enjoy those great fall colors. Don’t forget to follow us on Google News for our latest stories and specially curated content, and if you’d care to donate to our hard-working, nonpartisan newsroom, we’d be delighted. — Joel Kurth See other newsletter options Michigan personal income plummets to lowest in history compared to nation Michigan now ranks 39th in per capita income, a reflection of the state’s slow transition away from its blue-collar roots. Support nonprofit Michigan news Serving our state with high-quality journalism is expensive, but it's important — that's why we need your help. Please do your part and join our members, now more than 9,255 strong, who are the heart of Bridge Michigan. Support independent journalism Double Up Food Bucks program resumes $20 daily match for produce The Double Up Food Bucks program matches money spent on fruit and vegetables for families who receive food assistance. UAW strike 2023 update: GM makes sixth offer; Shawn Fain to give update Friday This continuously updated tracker has information about United Auto Workers strike against Ford, General Motors and Stellantis. EV battery maker LG Energy Solution eyes Michigan tax break for $3B expansion LG Energy Solution is planning to grow again, even before construction concludes on a $1.7B project announced in 2022. Holland officials await building plans. In warming Great Lakes, climate triage means some cold waters won’t be saved Government officials begin the grim task of prioritizing which cold lakes and rivers to sacrifice — or save — as the climate changes. Not all cold-water loving fish may survive in the northern Great Lakes region. Climate change threatens fish in Michigan’s Great Lakes. Watch video Global warming is the latest in a string of challenges to face the lakes in their young (geologically speaking) lives. More than 150 native fish species are at risk. Too many Bridge emails? Update your preferences Never want another Bridge email? Unsubscribe here This email was sent to: Cb31450@gmail.com Copyright © 2023 The Center for Michigan • 220 W Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti, MI 48197