North Michigan News

State Rep. Cam Cavitt has strongly criticized a recent proposal by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to significantly reduce funding for the Office of the Auditor General (OAG). Cavitt, R-Cheboygan, expressed concern over the implications of the budget cut, stating, “The Auditor General must remain fully funded. Their important work verifies the integrity of state agencies and uncovers mismanagement at all levels."

Cavitt emphasized the importance of the OAG's work, highlighting how their audits have exposed deep-rooted problems within the Whitmer Administration and other areas of state government. Referring to the proposed budget cut, Cavitt remarked, “Just because that mismanagement occurred under the Whitmer administration doesn’t mean she should have the authority to slash their ability to operate."

The OAG's audits have played a crucial role in uncovering issues such as fraud and improper payments within state agencies. Cavitt pointed out that the governor's proposed budget cut contradicts efforts to reduce state spending, stating, “She’s proposing $8 million in cuts to hide over $8 billion in waste by her own unemployment agency."

Auditor General Doug Ringler also raised concerns about the potential impact of the funding reduction, warning that it could hinder the OAG's ability to fulfill audit requirements and jeopardize federal funding. The proposed 28% budget cut to the OAG has raised further scrutiny and sparked debate over the implications for oversight and accountability within state government.