Holland Reporter

On June 18, Reps. Mary Whiteford (R-Casco Township) and Beth Griffin (R-Mattawn) shared stories from constituents who have been caused distress by the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency’s failure to communicate about wait times.

“One person said, ‘I just answered the question wrong. I’ve been unsuccessful in reaching anyone to fix this. It is a shame that citizens like myself do not have the option to go back and edit past certifications.' This person has been waiting for three months. ‘I beg you,’ she says, ‘please help me and other Michiganders,’” Whiteford said on a YouTube video of her speech at a rally about the UIA. 

Whiteford said that her office is working on 500 cases but only 88 cases have been resolved in the last three months. 

Rep. Mary Whiteford | Michigan House Republicans

“Over 200 haven’t even been assigned yet,” Whiteford said at the rally. “These are families that are struggling. That’s why I’m here and my colleagues are here. We’re moms and dads and family members of families, and that's who is suffering from decisions made at the top at the executive level.”

Griffin said that when her constituents call her office, they are crying from frustration and exhaustion that they have been subjected to from the inefficiency of the UIA. 

“When they yell in anger from the lack of communication from UIA — unacceptable!” Griffin said passionately in a YouTube video of her address. “One woman will soon lose her cell phone because she's buying food for her children instead. Why should she have to make that decision? Where is the compassion from the governor? Where is the leadership from the governor? This can be avoided.”

Rep. Griffin said that the governor’s lack of organization and lack of capacity to handle the UIA and care for her state’s residents is beyond excuses.

“We are the voice of the people, and today we are yelling loud and clear! We need leadership from the governor's office. These people are hurting, and they have voices, too,” Griffin said.