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
-
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. -
Among other things, the expansion of the law would protect people who’ve had abortions from being denied a job, a promotion, or housing.
-
The state House Elections Committee approved legislation Tuesday that would lift a ban on payroll deductions for donations to union political action committees.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, won a second term over Republican Tudor Dixon. Voters also acted to enshrine abortion rights in the state's constitution.
-
The Michigan Supreme Court will decide whether changes made to the state’s auto insurance law in 2019 are constitutional. The court's ordering insurance companies to continue paying certain pre-2019 benefits at least until the case is decided.
-
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.
-
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.
