Possible bad news ahead for Gordie Howe International Bridge

Republicans who control the Michigan House are proposing to prohibit the state from spending money on a new bridge between Windsor and Detroit, even though Canada has been fully reimbursing the state for its expenses.

The change involving the Gordie Howe International Bridge was made by a committee Wednesday and sent to the House.

Critics warn the move could halt work on the bridge, which Canada is paying for entirely. A Republican lawmaker who helped write the transportation budget denies work on the bridge would stop and says he just wants more transparency about spending.

Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority communications director Mark Butler would not comment on a "Michigan political issue."

"WDBA is not concerned of any delays to the project," said Butler. "We are making significant progress on the construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge project."

Budget plans proposed by the Republican-led Senate and Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer would not include new restrictions against bridge work.

The Michigan Department of Transportation said the bridge is broadly supported across the state and it was confident lawmakers were aware of that.

The bridge over the Detroit River is expected to open in 2024.