Todd Spangler

2 weeks ago | freep.com | Todd Spangler

President Trump signed a resolution blocking California's ban on gasoline-powered vehicle sales. California plans to sue, arguing the resolution's passing violated existing law. Supporters say the resolution protects consumer choice and the auto industry, while critics argue it harms the environment and public health.

3 weeks ago | freep.com | Todd Spangler

The gym owners sought compensation for financial losses incurred during the six-month closure, arguing it constituted an "unconstitutional taking" of their property. Lower Michigan courts issued conflicting rulings, with the Court of Appeals ultimately siding with the state. The gym owners appealed to the Supreme Court, claiming the state courts hadn't adequately considered the economic burden placed on their business.

1 month ago | freep.com | Todd Spangler |Arpan Lobo

The government alleged in 2020 that men upset with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's handling of the coronavirus pandemic had conspired to kidnap her. Prosecutors had mixed success in court but did land convictions in both federal and state courts. A Department of Justice official previously compared them to the people Trump pardoned in connection with the Jan. 6, 2021 attack by his supporters on the U.S. Capitol.

1 month ago | freep.com | Todd Spangler

The proposed tax break allows tipped workers to deduct reported tips from their earned income, potentially lowering their taxable income. The deduction applies only to cash tips and excludes non-cash items or added service charges. There are restrictions on who qualifies, including income limits and occupation requirements. Whatever comes out of Congress this year in terms of tax changes, it's looking increasingly likely that tipped workers are going to get a break.

1 month ago | freep.com | Todd Spangler

Congress voted to overturn the EPA waiver allowing California to ban new gas-powered vehicle sales by 2035. The Senate vote was largely partisan, with Democratic Sen. Slotkin of Michigan siding with Republicans due to concerns about the auto industry. The legality of Congress's decision, given prior GAO findings, is likely to be challenged in court by California.