The $11 billion unfunded liability that Michigan local governments are saddled with needs state government intervention, but is lame duck the time for that conversation? Chris Hackbarth of the Michigan Municipal League tackles that question. He also offers statewide solutions for what can be done to curb costs so that cities -- already financially hobbled by state revenue sharing cuts and lower property values from the Great Recession -- can get on better financial footing.

What are the chance the energy reform package is passed in lame duck? MIRS Editor Kyle Melinn puts the odds at between 85 and 90 percent "yes," but not everyone agrees.

MIRS also offers commentary on the prospects of a statewide presidential recount. Who does a recount help and who does it hurt? Listen to this and more in this week's edition.