State Rep. Mark Huizenga today supported a measure granting investigative authority to the House Committee on Oversight to look into recent departures of executive officials.

“Gov. Whitmer’s response to the pandemic has been a crucial reminder of the need for legislative oversight of the administration,” said Huizenga, of Walker. “The nature of some former officials’ departures raises even more questions about the governor’s decision-making process, and subpoena power will equip the Oversight Committee to get answers despite obstruction and secrecy from these individuals.”

In accordance with state law and House rules, the House today approved House Resolution 60, which grants the Oversight Committee the power to administer oaths; issue subpoenas; and examine books, records, and files related to employee separations and severance agreements entered into by the executive branch of state government.

Robert Gordon, the former director of the Department of Health and Human Services, resigned in January, shortly after issuing a new epidemic order extending gathering and face mask restrictions. It was soon learned that he received a separation agreement worth $155,000.

Two other former officials also received sizable severances: Steve Gray, former director of the Unemployment Insurance Agency, and Sarah Esty, former senior deputy director of DHHS. The agreements with Gordon and Gray both included confidentiality provisions. Gordon has mutually waived confidentiality with the administration, but has continued to decline requests to testify before the committee.