Watch Focal Point: FBI foils plot to kidnap Governor Whitmer, new businesses open in East Lansing in midst of pandemic, and students are out or work as MSU goes virtual

On this edition of Focal Point, a look at a busy week in politics. The FBI foils a plan to kidnap Governor Gretchen Whitmer, the candidates for Vice President debate, the the Libertarian presidential candidate visits Detroit. On campus, over 700 student employees are out of work as COVID-19 continues to spread in Ingham County. But even as the pandemic continues, new businesses come to East Lansing. All that and more on Focal Point.

Hemp farmers face roadblocks on path to replace wood, plastics

Michigan farmers experimenting with hemp this year are eyeing new markets beyond rope and clothing that could include products that replace building materials like wood and plastic. But there are technological and regulatory hurdles to overcome before they can fully exploit production of a plant that is related to marijuana, but has far less of the substance used to treat illness or make you high. We talk to experts at Northern Michigan University, Michigan Farm Bureau and a trade association. By Evan Jones.

Growing green: marijuana presents water, air and energy challenges

By QUINN ZIMMERMAN
Capital News Service

LANSING — Michigan regulators are preparing for the environmental impact of the state’s recent legalization of recreational marijuana. High demand and the new legal status will drive the growth of the state’s crop, Marijuana Business Daily reported last November. Environmental concerns related to water and air quality are associated with the expanding production, said Jill Greenberg, a public information officer with the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. “The way the ballot (question) was written, there was no consideration for environmental impact. it all had to be picked up afterward,” said Robert Elmouchi, an environmental quality analyst with the agency’s Air Quality Division.

Watch Focal Point: President Trump comes to Grand Rapids, and MSU engineers device for the hearing impaired

On this edition of Focal Point, get a preview of what MSU engineers are creating for people with hearing loss. Also, President Donald Trump rallies in Grand Rapids. Learn more about possible health benefits of medical marijuana. In sports, find out how MSU forward Nick Ward was able to make it to March Madness. These stories and more on this edition of Focal Point.