Lansing, Michigan — Michigan’s weak public records laws are colliding with declining civic education and rising online misinformation, creating what educators describe as a growing risk to democratic engagement. The state’s Freedom of Information Act, which exempts both the governor’s office and the Legislature, consistently ranks last nationally for access to public records, even as civics instruction continues to fade from K–12 classrooms.
Educators and journalists say the lack of transparency directly affects media literacy. FOIA is a core tool that allows reporters and citizens to scrutinize government decisions, yet Michigan residents remain unable to request records from some of the state’s most powerful offices. Joel Kurth, executive editor of impact at Bridge Michigan, said access to public records is essential for informing voters and sustaining trust in government.
At the same time, social studies instruction has been marginalized by standardized testing pressures. A 2023 survey by the Michigan Council for the Social Studies found that elementary civics receives limited classroom time, resources, and teacher training. Eastern Michigan University professor Brigid Beaubien said media literacy has become inseparable from civic education in an era dominated by social media and algorithm-driven content.
Efforts to expand FOIA have stalled in Lansing for nearly a decade, despite bipartisan campaign promises. Lisa McGraw of the Michigan Press Association said the delays undermine public confidence in both journalism and government. As digital misinformation accelerates, educators warn that without transparency and civic education, rebuilding trust will become increasingly difficult.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
