GOP obstruction blocks critical funding for Detroit museums
State Rep. Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit) sits on a committee at the Anderson House Office Building in Lansing.
LANSING, Mich., Feb. 4, 2025 — House Republicans are refusing to send nine duly passed bills to the governor’s desk, including critical legislation to support Detroit’s museums. In response, Senate Democrats filed a lawsuit yesterday against House Republican leadership, demanding they uphold their constitutional duty and transmit the legislation. Among the hostage bills are House Bills 4177, 5817 and 5818, which would allow the County Board of Commissioners to establish a history museum authority to support history museums in Detroit and seek a property tax millage from Wayne County voters, giving the community a voice in preserving and funding its cultural institutions. State Rep. Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit), sponsor of HBs 4177 and 5817, issued the following statement:
“This obstruction is an outright assault on democracy and a blatant attempt to erase history, especially Black history. Detroit’s museums tell the stories of resilience, innovation and struggle that define our community. By holding these bills hostage, House Republicans are silencing the voices of Wayne County voters and jeopardizing the future of these vital institutions. I commend Senate Democrats for taking action to hold them accountable. The people of Michigan deserve a government that works — not partisan games that threaten our shared history.”
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