News Brief: Forlini Calls for Increased Oversight of Michigan Works

State Rep. Anthony Forlini, R-Harrison Township, called for increased oversight of the Michigan Works Agencies after an audit found the state spent thousands of dollars on perks.

Forlini sent a letter outlining some of the abuses to the Bureau of Workforce Transformation and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, citing a recent audit from the Office of the Auditor General. The Auditor General is charged with reviewing state departments and programs for efficiency and compliance.

The audit found the employment agency spent money on:

• $15,416 for college expenses incurred by staff.
• $9,873 for meals at a weekend retreat ($8,013 above authorized rates).
• $8,265 for lodging at a weekend retreat ($3,760 above authorized rates).
• Membership dues at the Country Club of Lansing.
• Monthly massages for administrative staff.
• Payments to employees for unused sick days, contrary to state employee policy.

"Even though Michigan's economy is rebounding, taxpayers do not expect to pay for benefits like monthly massages for state employees," Forlini said in a release. "Our goal must always be efficient and transparent government. There is no room for wasteful spending."