Photos or video, however, are prohibited unless approved by a judge.
The public can now bring electronic devices into courtrooms to take notes, use the internet or exchange email and text messages.
Read more at WZZM13
The federal minimum age for purchasing any tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, jumped to 21 on Dec. 20.
Michigan 18-year-olds can vote, buy rifles or register for the military draft, yet they are now too young to legally buy cigarettes or vaping devices.
Read more at the Detroit Free Press
On Dec. 16th, a new state law took effect to combat "porch pirates."
On Monday, a new state law takes effect to close the gap. If caught stealing, mail thieves could face fines and up to a year in jail. Repeat offenders could face up to five years in prison.
Read more at Fox17
Grand Rapids City Commission adopts a new weapons ordinance.
The current firearms ordinance has received only a few updates since it went into effect in 1967. The new ordinance goes into effect April 1, 2020.
The City Commission this evening voted to repeal the City’s firearms ordinance and replace it with a new weapons ordinance.
Read more at the official City of Grand Rapids Website