Events from the year 1980 in Michigan. The Associated Press (AP) selected the top Michigan news stories in Michigan as follows: 1. * Record losses by the Big Three automakers and layoffs of 190,000 workers by year's end and production falling below the Japanese auto makers for the first time in history; 2. * Economic downturn in Michigan resulting in layoffs of state employees, increases in welfare rolls, and reductions in state services; 3. * A radical tax-cutting proposal from Shiawassee County Drain Commissioner Robert Tisch, known as the Tisch Amendment, was defeated in the November general election; 4. * Chrysler Corporation's struggle to avoid bankruptcy, including $1.47 billion in losses in the first nine months, the introduction of the K car, and its pursuit of additional f