Politics and Government
Mary Sheffield Makes History as Detroit’s First Elected Woman Mayor
Mary Sheffield made history on January 1, 2026, when she became Detroit’s 76th mayor and the first woman elected to lead the city.
The 38-year-old former City Council president spent her first day visiting first responders and serving meals at the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, emphasizing her focus on public safety and community service.
Laws and Policy Changes (Effective January 1, 2026)
Michigan Minimum Wage Jumps to $13.73, Tipped Wage Rises to $5.49
Michigan’s minimum wage rose from $12.48 to $13.73 per hour, with the tipped employee wage increasing to $5.49 per hour.
Workers between 16 and 18 years old will earn $11.67 per hour (85% rate).
Maximum Unemployment Benefits Increase to $530 Per Week, First Time Since 2002
The maximum weekly unemployment benefit increased to $530, up from $446, with the amount per dependent rising to $19.33. This marks the first major increase since 2002.
Michigan Imposes New 24% Wholesale Tax on Recreational Marijuana
A 24% wholesale excise tax on recreational marijuana took effect, adding to the existing 10% retail tax and 6% sales tax for a total tax rate of 40%.
The measure is expected to generate over $400 million annually for infrastructure projects.
New “Taylor Swift Law” Cracks Down on Ticket-Buying Bots
New laws targeting ticket bots went into effect, authorizing the Michigan attorney general to pursue action against anyone using automated systems to purchase large quantities of event tickets.
Gas Tax Rises to 52.4 Cents Per Gallon, Prepaid Sales Tax Eliminated
The Motor Fuel Tax Act rate increased to $0.524 per gallon (adjusted for inflation from the $0.51 base rate), while prepaid sales tax on motor fuel ceased.
Sports
University of Michigan Hires Utah’s Kyle Whittingham as 22nd Head Football Coach
Michigan fans react positively to the announcement of Kyle Whittingham as the program’s new head football coach. Credit: @umich_daily via Instagram
Kyle Whittingham signed a five-year contract to become Michigan’s 22nd head football coach, bringing a 177-88 record from 21 seasons at Utah.
The 66-year-old coach is assembling his staff, including hiring Utah offensive coordinator Jason Beck.
Texas Defeats Michigan 41-27 in Citrus Bowl, Wolverines Finish 9-4
Michigan lost to Texas 41-27 in the Citrus Bowl on December 31, ending their season at 9-4.
Freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood played despite 12-15 players being unavailable due to injuries or NFL draft opt-outs.
Weather
Michigan Faces Snowy, Very Cold Start to 2026 According to Farmer’s Almanac
The Old Farmer’s Almanac forecasts snowy and very cold conditions for Michigan from January 1-9, with the overall month expected to be slightly cooler and wetter than average.
Crime and Public Safety
68-Year-Old Man Killed in Oakland County Hit-and-Run on New Year’s Day
A 68-year-old man was found dead on the shoulder of a road in Oakland County after a hit-and-run crash on January 1.
Featured image credit: @marysheffield via Instagram