MSU Layoffs Tied to Major Funding Cuts; CATA Service and Local Events Highlight Lansing Updates

Lansing, MI — August 7, 2025
Michigan State University (MSU) is facing significant job losses following major funding cuts. At least 19 employees in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources are set to lose their positions after the termination of U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) grants. According to MSU spokeswoman Amber McCann, the department has worked to minimize the impact, but the layoffs were unavoidable once the grants were withdrawn.

The larger picture is even more dire: the university is planning to lay off over 100 employees across departments, largely due to reductions in SNAP-Ed program funding.

In brighter news for campus commuters, the Capital Area Transportation Authority (CATA) will resume service on all MSU campus routes, including Route 26, starting August 18. This change is part of a broader series of service adjustments across the Lansing area. Commuters can find more details at cata.org.

Weekend Traffic Alerts for Lansing

Two traffic advisories are in place for the upcoming weekend:

• Several downtown Lansing streets will close Saturday between 10 a.m. and 12 noon for the City Rescue Mission Crosswalk event.

• Washington Avenue between Elm and Baker streets will be briefly shut down from 8:40 to 9:10 a.m. Saturday for the BWL Hometown 5K run.

Local Crash Near Frandor Shopping Center

At least one person was injured in a two-vehicle crash near the intersection of Clippert and Grand River Avenue on Wednesday. Authorities have not yet released the extent of the injuries.

Back-to-School Health Fair Draws Crowds

Families gathered Wednesday at the Ingham County Health Department for the annual back-to-school health fair. Children received vaccinations, health screenings, and child car seat safety checks as part of the department’s ongoing public health efforts.

Meanwhile, the Barry-Eaton District Health Department is adjusting its walk-in hours due to staff shortages:

• Eaton County office will be open to the public on Mondays and Wednesdays.

• Barry County office will now allow walk-ins on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Court Upholds Dismissal in Military Voter Lawsuit

In a notable legal ruling, the Michigan Court of Appeals upheld the dismissal of a Republican-led lawsuit challenging election guidance from the Secretary of State. The suit alleged that voter status was granted to individuals who were not Michigan residents, particularly family members of military personnel and overseas voters. The court found no basis for the claim.

Veterans Honored at Jackson County Fair

Today is Veterans Day at the Jackson County Fair. All veterans receive free admission from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. The fair continues through Saturday.