Rick Pluta
Rick Pluta is Senior Capitol Correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.
Rick was one of the first Michigan political reporters to write about “pay-to-play” fundraising, and the controversies surrounding recognition of same-sex relationships. He broke the news that Gov. John Engler was planning a huge juvenile justice overhaul that included adult-time-for-adult-crime sentencing, and has continued to report since then on the effects of that policy decision.
He co-hosted the weekly segment “It’s Just Politics” on Michigan Radio with Zoe Clark.
Rick is fascinated by the game of politics, and the grand plans and human foibles that go into policy-making. You will never find him ice-fishing.
Follow him on Twitter at @rickpluta
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Abortion access has declined dramatically nationwide, but many states have further protected abortion by enacting "shield laws," allocating funding, stockpiling medication and repealing old laws. -
In 2023, a record number of states have passed rules or legislation to eliminate youth gender-affirming care, but a record number of states have also moved to protect care for trans youth and adults.
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Michigan lawmakers have voted to repeal the state's right-to-work law, which allows workers to opt out of paying union dues. Republicans call the move a setback for the state's economy.
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First the first time in 40 years, Democrats control every part of Michigan's state government. After Monday's shooting at Michigan State University, the party is pushing hard for gun restrictions.
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After a court ruling Friday, abortion in Michigan continues to be legal for now - though there are more legal challenges ahead.
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Abortion is still legal in Michigan after a circuit court judge ruled that county prosecutors can't charge providers with a felony. The decision blocks the enforcement of a 1931 pre-Roe abortion ban.
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Under a ruling by the Michigan Court of Appeals, local prosecutors in Michigan may soon be allowed to file felony charges against abortion providers. Multiple challenges are already underway.
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People in Flint, Mich., are awaiting justice after water there was poisoned years ago. The former governor is facing charges, but the state Supreme Court has issued an opinion weakening the case.
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Michigan has seen a surge in COVID-19 cases, and skepticism is growing over health orders and vaccines. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is in persuasion mode to try to get vaccine skeptics on board.
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Michigan ex-Gov. Rick Snyder and a former Flint public works director have each been charged with two misdemeanor counts of willful neglect of duty in connection with the Flint water crisis.
