Elections & Politics

Gender imbalance in Michigan Legislature persists

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By ISAAC CONSTANS
Capital News Service
LANSING — There are 148 members of the Legislature. Just 34 are women. One is in a leadership position. “You’re not getting kind of that balance between who your representatives are and who your constituents are,” said Rep. Christine Greig, D-Farmington Hills, the House minority floor leader. “That is a problem, and I think that’s what skews the issues that get talked about.”
The House includes 15 Democratic and 15 Republican women, while four women — three Republicans and one Democrat — are in the Senate.

Business & Economy

Removing barriers for gays could boost state economy

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By CELESTE BOTT
Capital News Service
LANSING – Discrimination against gays and lesbians hurts Michigan’s economy, according to a new report by the Department of Civil Rights. Emily Dievendorf, director of policy for Equality Michigan, said that reducing widespread discrimination will improve the economy because more people are likely to live and work in a state that promotes tolerance. “Bright, skilled workers no longer flock to a location just because a business puts down roots,” Dievendorf said. “The best and the brightest are most attracted to communities that are also safe and open to all families. “The solution isn’t to kick out our eager young workers who want Michigan to thrive.