06/09/2026
The Oversight Subcommittee on State and Local Assistance Programs recently held a hearing where we heard additional testimony into the ongoing investigation as a part of the UIA’s collection efforts of COVID-19 payments.
Over the past several months, many Michiganders enrolled with the Unemployment Insurance Agency have received collection notices for claims filed during the COVID 19 period. These overpayment and collection actions stem from significant issues within the UIA during that time, when the agency distributed funds at a pace that allowed fraud, waste, and abuse to infiltrate the system.
This action is being taken in response to federal requirements to recover benefits that were issued to individuals who were later determined to be ineligible. Unfortunately, this has placed a burden on many who relied on these benefits in good faith. Many have struggled to pay rent, buy groceries, or afford gas, while individuals who engaged in fraudulent activity benefited from the agency’s inability to properly review claims.
To help alleviate this hardship, I introduced HB 5375, legislation that would require the UIA to waive all interest assessed on unpaid restitution balances, providing relief to those who were unfairly impacted. Because Michiganders deserve accountability, and they deserve a system that works for them, not against them.
