LANSING, Mich. (Jan. 9, 2026) — This week, Attorney General Dana Nessel issued an official legal opinion concluding that House Republicans’ $645 million cut to bipartisan, already agreed-upon funding to programs around the state was unconstitutional. Among the programming facing cuts was the redevelopment of the historic Hayes Hotel, which was slated to provide housing and other community revitalization efforts to the city of Jackson. Since the December cuts, the Hayes Hotel’s construction has paused, causing further weather-related damage and delays to the project.
In response to the Attorney General’s opinion, Sen. Sue Shink (D-Northfield Twp.) has issued the following statement:
“The redevelopment of Hayes Hotel is one of many projects in my district focused on improving community spaces and stimulating local economies that were put at risk when House Republicans ripped away funding under the guise of ‘waste’ and ‘abuse.’ Other programs on the chopping block included support for new and expecting mothers, temporary housing for those experiencing homelessness, and wigs for children with cancer. Michigan residents deserve leaders who truly care about their quality of life, not ones who play political theater and cut corners during times of hardship.
“I’m livid with the actions of House Republicans, but relieved that Attorney General Nessel has made it apparent that this political stunt was not only heartless, but unconstitutional. These cuts would have been devastating to my district and to communities around the state, and so I am grateful that this funding will be restored for the people and programs around Michigan it was promised to.”
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