Ferris State University has terminated the employment of an associate professor following his arrest by federal immigration agents last November. The firing of Sumith Gunasekera, alleged by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to be an undocumented immigrant from Sri Lanka, was documented in records obtained through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request by MLive/The Grand Rapids Press.
Gunasekera was placed in ICE custody and the university cited misconduct as the reason for his dismissal. The decision, conveyed in a letter dated December 11, mentioned that Gunasekera failed to attend a hearing concerning potential policy violations, including possible job abandonment. Additionally, an investigation uncovered discrepancies between his criminal background and the details he provided on his job application.
In other news from Michigan, several companies have announced significant layoffs as they navigate economic challenges. Spirit Airlines planned to furlough 1,800 flight attendants across the nation, including 103 in Detroit. In total, seven Michigan employers are expected to cut nearly 1,000 jobs this month, as reported through WARN Act notifications. This includes layoffs from an airline, an automotive supplier facing facility closures, and a battery manufacturer adapting to changes in electric vehicle market demand.
On a different note, Michigan utilities will be required to inform customers about potential energy bill increases due to upcoming rate hikes, beginning March 1, 2026. This new requirement aims to boost transparency and provides essential information to customers regarding how proposed rate changes could affect their bills.
Additionally, the state of Michigan has been awarded over $173 million in federal funding intended to bolster rural health initiatives as part of the Rural Health Transformation Program. This funding aims to enhance healthcare services in rural areas, although some concerns have been raised about whether the allocation adequately addresses the needs of these communities.
Finally, in the restaurant sector, Baby Bear Burger in Jackson will close its doors permanently at the end of the year due to owner Marshawn Goodloe’s health issues. Goodloe is selling the restaurant for $270,000 and hopes to find a buyer who will continue the establishment’s legacy. This closure marks the end of an era for a beloved local eatery.