Detroit City Wire

Representative Josh Schriver has communicated the ongoing efforts of the Oversight Committee and the Government Weaponization Committee regarding transparency and accountability within Michigan's government. Schriver, who serves as Vice Chair of the Government Weaponization Committee, emphasized the state’s need to safeguard integrity in its operations and the responsible use of taxpayer resources.

The Oversight Committee is currently examining several issues affecting Michigan citizens, notably the transparency in elections, the allocation of taxpayer funds for legal fees related to the Flint Water Crisis, and enforcement actions against fentanyl-related crimes. Schriver stated, "In each of these cases, state officials and agencies have failed to provide most of the requested information in a timely manner."

A primary focus is on "obtaining clerk training materials from Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson’s office," which are essential for understanding how election officials are instructed in handling voter registration and ballots. To date, the Secretary of State's office has not furnished these materials, prompting concerns of potential partisan bias in election training. Schriver warned that the committee might consider issuing a subpoena to compel compliance.

In addressing the Flint Water Crisis, Schriver stressed the necessity for transparency regarding the expenditure of taxpayer money on legal fees related to the crisis. "The Attorney General’s office has refused to disclose how much taxpayer money has been used to cover legal costs in ongoing Flint-related lawsuits and settlements," Schriver noted. The committee is evaluating further actions, including subpoena issuance, to access these financial records.

Further, Schriver highlighted concerns regarding delays in criminal justice processes relating to fentanyl enforcement. He stated his office is still awaiting data from the Michigan State Police on "how long it takes for the Michigan State Police to issue arrest warrants for fentanyl and overdose cases." He emphasized the urgency of holding traffickers accountable to protect Michigan communities.

Schriver, as Vice Chair of the Government Weaponization Committee, is dedicated to monitoring government agencies to prevent power abuse. He remarked, "Whether it's the suppression of free speech, the misuse of taxpayer money, or a failure to enforce the law, we must ensure that the government is working for the people—not against them."

To uphold transparency and accountability, Schriver affirmed the committees' readiness to employ all legal tools available, such as subpoenas, should the agencies remain uncooperative.

Representative Josh Schriver concluded with an invitation for public interaction and assured continued efforts to inform and involve Michigan residents in matters of governance.