Since 2015, consumer confidence in the economy has plummeted according to recent consumer survey data by the University of Michigan. But while confidence has declined, spending has remained strong. Why? And, how have rising gas prices factored into the economy?

Professor Joanne Hsu is the director of the monthly Surveys of Consumers at the University of Michigan. She spoke with The Metro’s Sam Corey.

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Many of the systems designed to keep us safe sometimes harm the most vulnerable among us. That’s often true of people who face financial hardship.

Detroit’s 36th District Court is trying to stop that from continuing. Chief Judge William McConico is running a court-wide amnesty program through April 2, waiving all late fees, penalties, and warrant costs for adjudicated cases when the original fine is paid.

McConico spoke with The Metro‘s Robyn Vincent about this, bail reform and controversy surrounding one of his judges.

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on demand.

Subscribe to The Metro on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

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