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The State Administrative Board Tuesday approved a request by the governor to use $1.2 million in taxpayer money to cover the cost of his legal fees relating to the Flint water crisis.
Democrats, however, say the governor should pay those fees out of his own pocket.
And they’re threatening to push the legislature to cut the governor’s office budget.
A spokesperson for the governor says state rules allow for Michigan taxpayers to cover the cost of defending any employees to ensure that public servants can do their jobs with limited risk.
Rick Snyder is facing threats of lawsuits over his role in the Flint water crisis.
He says the state doesn’t have enough lawyers to handle the case, so he’s requesting additional money.
Democrats charge the governor’s effort is self-serving and taxpayers should not have to pick up the tab for his legal needs.
The board also approved Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette’s request for $1.5 million to cover the cost of his investigation into Flint’s lead contaminated water.
