LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – House Republicans have launched a new legislator-led initiative they say will examine waste, fraud, and inefficiency across Michigan state government, with an early focus on Medicaid spending and the size of state departments.
State Rep. James DeSana (R–Carleton) announced the creation of the Michigan DOGE Task Force during a press conference Thursday, saying the group has already held its first meeting and will begin reviewing multiple areas of state government.
DeSana said the task force is focusing heavily on Medicaid, citing research discussed during its initial meeting. He said there is $1.8 billion in proven Medicaid fraud based on partial verification of the program, and suggested that number could increase as additional data is reviewed. He also said the group is examining fraud tied to SNAP benefits and error rates that could expose the state to future federal penalties.
Beyond benefit programs, DeSana said the task force will look at the structure of state government itself, including consolidating departments. He said Republicans would like to reduce the number of state departments from 18 to 12, beginning with merging the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy back into the Department of Natural Resources.
Education spending is also part of the review. DeSana claimed that for the first time in Michigan history, administrative salaries and benefits in K–12 education now exceed instructional costs, calling it a sign that resources are not being directed where they are most effective.
Republicans stressed that the initiative is not intended to reduce services for vulnerable populations. Rep. Gina Johnsen said identifying fraud and inefficiencies would allow the state to better support those who rely on public assistance, including veterans, people with disabilities, and low-income residents.
DeSana said the task force will operate transparently and make recommendations similar to other legislative task forces, noting that major changes would require cooperation across branches of government. He acknowledged that divided government could complicate implementation but said Republicans are looking toward long-term reforms.
The Michigan DOGE Task Force is made up entirely of House Republicans and will continue meeting as it develops policy recommendations related to government efficiency and spending.
