EAST GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Jan. 7, 2026 — Michigan State Attorney General Dana Nessel issued an opinion today concluding that House Republicans’ maneuver to claw back $645 million in previously-approved funding was unconstitutional. The opinion follows weeks of immediate and relentless actions from legislative Democrats fighting to restore the dollars promised to kids, moms, families, small businesses and more.
In response to Nessel’s opinion, state Rep. Phil Skaggs (D-East Grand Rapids) issued the following statement:
“The Attorney General’s opinion confirms GOP lawmakers overstepped their authority by rescinding funds after the budget was lawfully passed and signed — violating the Michigan Constitution. In December, House Republicans used a rare maneuver to cut $645 million without public input or warning, breaking promises to communities and harming kids with cancer, sexual assault survivors, veterans, firefighters, local governments and thousands of nonprofits.
“Democrats fought back. The State Budget Office is directing departments to resume projects and release funds. This is a major step forward for Michigan communities, the constitution and the rule of law and another loss for self-styled ‘constitutional expert’ Matt Hall.”
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