Lansing, MI → Michigan Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt is calling on the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate multiple nonprofits, state agencies, and adult care facilities in Dearborn over concerns involving millions in taxpayer dollars and potential gaps in oversight.
In a formal letter dated February 11, 2026, Nesbitt requested a federal review into financial activity involving ACCESS Michigan, the National Association of Yemeni Americans (NAYA), the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO).
The request focuses on accountability and whether public funds are being used strictly for their intended purposes.
Millions In Public Funding Under Scrutiny
According to the letter, ACCESS Michigan reportedly received more than $5 million in federal funding in 2025 for healthcare-related services. Nesbitt is asking for a federal review to ensure those funds were used within legal guidelines and not diverted into activities outside the scope of the grants.
The letter also raises concerns involving NAYA, which has received millions in state grant funding over the past five years, while reportedly showing limited tax filings, including a 2021 return that claimed less than $50,000 in revenue.
In addition, NAYA recently sought approximately $800,000 for behavioral health and case management services, prompting questions about how those funds would be allocated and whether any services might extend beyond their intended purpose.
Questions About Oversight And Grant Distribution
The letter also points to broader concerns about state oversight, including reference to a $20 million grant involving the Michigan Economic Development Corporation that has drawn scrutiny and raised questions about how enhancement grants are monitored and approved.
Nesbitt argues that state agencies responsible for distributing and monitoring federal pass-through dollars have a duty to ensure funds are tracked, reported, and separated from any activity that could conflict with federal requirements.
Supporters of the request say the goal is simple: Confirm that safeguards are working and that taxpayer money is protected.
Dearborn Specifically Named In Investigation Request
The letter also urges the Department of Justice to investigate allegations of fraud connected to adult care homes located in Dearborn, citing reporting from independent journalists that raised concerns about potential financial misconduct.
The concern, as outlined in the request, is whether funds intended to care for vulnerable adults were properly used and whether any misuse may have impacted quality of care.
Accountability, Not Accusations
At this stage, the letter does not claim wrongdoing has been proven. Instead, it asks federal authorities to review financial records, grant compliance, and oversight systems to determine whether problems exist.
Advocates for increased oversight say investigations like this serve two purposes: Uncover issues if they exist and reassure taxpayers if programs are operating correctly.
With millions in public dollars flowing into nonprofit programs, healthcare initiatives, and grant-funded services across Michigan, including in Dearborn, calls for transparency and verification are being framed as a step toward ensuring there is no waste, fraud, or abuse in local communities.
The Department of Justice has not yet publicly responded to the request.
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