State Rep. Douglas Wozniak today joined the House Oversight Committee in demanding answers from the Michigan Department of Treasury after officials erroneously sent more than 27,000 letters falsely informing taxpayers they would receive a reduced refund or owe additional taxes.

“Taxpayers have a right to expect accuracy and accountability from the agencies they fund,” said Wozniak (R-Shelby Township). “When tens of thousands of people receive incorrect notices regarding their tax obligations, it creates confusion, unnecessary stress, and erodes confidence in government. Treasury owes taxpayers clear answers about how this happened and what steps are being taken to ensure it never happens again.”

Today, the House Oversight Committee questioned Treasury officials regarding the error and the department’s handling of taxpayer concerns. Treasury attributed many of the issues to problems associated with a new information technology system, but lawmakers emphasized that administrative failures do not excuse poor communication or a lack of responsiveness to residents seeking assistance.

“Technology is a tool, not an excuse,” Wozniak said. “Regardless of the cause, taxpayers deserve timely information, accurate notices, and responsive customer service. Government has an obligation to correct mistakes quickly and communicate openly when problems arise.”

The hearing also examined broader concerns regarding delays in processing tax returns and Treasury’s unresponsiveness to taxpayers attempting to resolve issues with the department. Many residents have turned to legislative offices for assistance after struggling to obtain answers directly from Treasury.

“One of the most frustrating aspects of this situation is that taxpayers often cannot get the information they need from the department itself,” Wozniak said. “When residents are forced to rely on their state representative simply to get a response from a state agency, it is a sign that improvements are needed.”

Wozniak said the hearing was an important first step and lawmakers would continue examining ways to improve transparency, responsiveness, and accountability within state government.