State Reps. John Roth and Luke Meerman today called for Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Director Elizabeth Hertel to immediately close the Michigan Youth Treatment Center (MYTC), citing repeated incidents that have jeopardized the safety of children.  

Since opening its doors for treatment in 2025, the MYTC has received numerous documented compliance failures that have put children at risk. These incidents include violence between youth and staff, deteriorating infrastructure, lack of shift coordination, and extensive security concerns. 

“Somebody has to step in,” said Roth (R-Interlochen). “There is absolutely nothing therapeutic about the environment that the state has created for these children. How can we expect the staff to effectively take care of these kids when the state isn’t putting in the basic effort to ensure that the facility is safe for treatment? For the safety of these kids, I’m calling on MDHHS Director Hertel to immediately close this facility. The people of Michigan deserve better.” 

“It’s appalling that these conditions have continued for as long as they have,” said Meerman (R-Coopersville). “Serious concerns were raised time and time again, and yet nothing has changed. MDHHS leadership has ignored these concerns at the expense of children who need our help. With blatant failures that are putting lives at risk, we cannot allow this to continue.” 

Roth continued by emphasizing the need for accountability and a clear path forward. 

“We have to remain committed to making sure that these kids are getting the proper care that they deserve,” said Roth, who chairs the House’s Human Services budget subcommittee. “The MDHHS has to do better for our children. I’m requesting a meeting as soon as possible to discuss the steps that we need to take to guarantee quality treatment. We can’t afford to wait any longer.”