DHHS Director Leaving

Jun 26, 2026

by Liz Gullett

As MLC’s Communications and Social Media Manager, Liz Gullett keeps clients informed and up-to-date on the goings on in Lansing and the Capitol.

Elizabeth Hertel, Director of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), announced her resignation, effective June 30. She was first appointed to the role by Governor Whitmer in 2021.

Acting director:

    • Beginning July 1, Amy Epkey will serve as the acting director of DHHS.
    • She previously held the senior deputy director position for the Financial Operations Administration at the department.
    • Prior to DHHS, Ms. Epkey has held a number of roles throughout state government, including senior deputy director for the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, and roles within the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
    • Epkey has a Bachelor of Business Administration from Grand Valley State University.

DHHS administers dozens of programs to improve the health, safety, and prosperity of state residents. It works hand-in-hand with hundreds of partners at the local and regional levels to provide needed services. DHHS has the largest budget, totaling $30 billion, and has over 15,000 employees.

Michigan Legislative Consultants is a bipartisan lobbying firm based in Lansing, Michigan. Our team of lobbyists and procurement specialists provide a wide range of services for some of the most respected companies in America. For more on MLC, visit www.mlcmi.com or connect with us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

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