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State Rep. Jay DeBoyer of Clay Township expressed his disappointment and concern following a report revealing that state Rep. Kristian Grant (D-Grand Rapids) misled Kent County officials regarding a previous tax filing related to COVID-19 small business assistance aid. DeBoyer's remarks come in the wake of Grant returning $5,000 in assistance money after discrepancies were discovered.

DeBoyer criticized the misuse of COVID relief funds, stating, "Abuse of COVID relief money has been a focus of the Legislature over the past several years because elected officials in Lansing have a responsibility to use tax dollars responsibly and ensure assistance programs are working as intended." He also pointed out that returning the money does not absolve Grant of potential wrongdoing, saying, "Just because the money was returned after this was exposed doesn’t mean the representative isn’t guilty of defrauding Kent County."

The Clay Township representative highlighted the negative impact of such actions, noting, "This is yet another embarrassing story of corruption coming from Lansing, and our poor standing nationally for government accountability and integrity takes another hit in the process." DeBoyer expressed hope that House leadership and the state Attorney General would investigate the matter, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in government.

DeBoyer concluded his statement by calling for integrity in public service, stating, "We must deliver a system of government that is open and accountable to people we represent. The right thing to do is resign if Rep. Grant has any integrity left."