Lawmakers are scrutinizing conditions at the Huron Valley Correctional Facility following the death of an inmate from a treatable infection and testimony alleging mold, poor ventilation and unsafe living conditions.
Janelle D. James
Janelle D. James covers breaking news at Bridge Michigan. She joined the staff in January 2023. Previously, she worked as a Capital News Correspondent at Michigan State University where she covered state and local policy issues. She also worked as a breaking news intern at the Detroit Free Press. She has a bachelors degree in journalism and political science from Michigan State University. She is from Detroit. You can reach her at jjames@bridgemi.com and on Twitter at Janelle___j.
Posted inQuality of Life
Golden goals: How Michigan athletes fared at the Winter Olympics
Eleven Michigan athletes have won gold medals at the Winter Olympics. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer was there to celebrate.
Posted inMichigan Government, Michigan Health Watch
Got raw milk? Michigan proposal would legalize wider sales
Republican-backed bills would allow Michigan farmers to sell unpasteurized milk directly to consumers. Critics contend there would be health risks, but supporters say consumers should be able to decide.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan gives parolees IDs in bid to keep them from returning to prison
The Michigan Department of Corrections has provided 30,000 inmates with state IDs and other vital documents before release to ease reentry and reduce recidivism. But exonerees, who are often released on short notice, may not have the same opportunity to secure those documents.
Posted inMichigan Government, Outdoors Life
Are campgrounds a solution to Michigan housing crunch? Some lawmakers think so
New proposal would allow extended stays of more than half a year at campgrounds in some parts of Michigan. Some are skeptical but one sponsor says it could ‘help solve the housing problem.’
Posted inQuality of Life
Michigan experts warn: Your child’s new friend may be an AI companion
Teens are increasingly using AI companions — not just for schoolwork, but for companionship and social interaction. Experts warn that heavy use may be linked to increased loneliness and emotional dependence.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Ice grips Great Lakes, with Erie nearly fully covered
About 95% percent of Lake Erie is covered in ice, and even half of Lake Superior is too. Bitter cold temperatures have spurred major ice coverage across the Great Lakes, but warmer weather is coming.
Posted inQuality of Life
Michigan athletes go for gold in Winter Olympics. Who and when to watch
More than a dozen athletes with Michigan ties qualified for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. The state is particularly well represented in ice dancing and hockey.
Posted inQuality of Life
Michigan cutting the cord at record rates, as cable subscribers fall below 1M
Cable television subscribers fell below 1 million in Michigan in 2025, as concerns about the cost of streaming services are increasing.
Posted inMichigan Government
Prison officer assaults up in Michigan. Union asks state for change
Assaults against Michigan prison staff have increased in recent years, particularly at facilities that house high-security inmates, which correctional officers attribute to a shortage of maximum-security space.