New House oversight subcommittee names members, adopts regular meeting time; chair vows probe of public-assistance spending

The House Oversight Committee on State and Local Public Assistance Programs convened on Jan. 30 and adopted a regular meeting time while formalizing its membership and priorities.

A letter dated Jan. 30, 2025, from state representative Jay DeBoer appointed Jason Wolford as chair of the oversight subcommittee and named William Brock vice chair, with Steve Cara, Penelope Serniglu (minority vice chair) and Denise Menser among the members. The committee took a roll call and established that five members were present, constituting a quorum.

The committee voted to adopt Thursday at 9 a.m. in Room 326 of the House Office Building as its normal meeting day, time and location. Representative Brooke moved the scheduling motion; the clerk recorded five yea votes and no nays, and the motion prevailed.

State Representative Denise Menser introduced herself during the meeting, saying she represents the 60th House District and describing elements of her background and reasons for serving. "I grew up poor in a trailer park, so I know what it's like to have to depend on some social assistance," Menser said.

Chair Jason Wolford used his opening remarks to outline the subcommittee's intended focus on oversight of state public-assistance programs. Reading from constitutional language, Wolford cited Michigan’s founding principle and said the panel would seek public input and tips. "We will need any and all help to limit government's overreach and stop the misuse of the state funds," Wolford said, and he characterized Michigan's public-assistance spending as "nearly $30,000,000,000." He invited members of the public to use a committee tip line to submit information.

Members offered brief introductions describing the districts they represent. Penelope Serniglu said she represents the 70th District, which includes parts of East Lansing and surrounding townships. Other members described districts spanning Monroe County, Lenawee County, Saint Joseph County and parts of Ingham, Clinton and Shiawassee counties.

No bills, ordinances or formal policy proposals were taken up at this first organizational meeting; the session consisted of the appointment reading, adoption of meeting logistics and member introductions. The committee chair closed the meeting after the organizational items and announcements.

The subcommittee is scheduled to meet Thursdays at 9 a.m. in Room 326 of the House Office Building under the adopted rule.