Honoring a Niles Veteran
On Monday, I had the privilege of recognizing Jim Gillis of Niles as Veteran of the Month for January. After dedicating over two decades of his life to defending our freedoms, Jim continued his service to our nation as a U.S. Army civilian. Throughout his life, he has led by example with integrity, humility, and a deep sense of responsibility to others. Thank you, Jim, for answering the call to serve. If you would like to nominate a deserving veteran for this honor, please visit my website.
Protecting Life
As Chair of the Education and Workforce Committee, I helped usher through the House the Pregnant Students’ Rights Act. Navigating college can be difficult for pregnant students. In many cases, women feel pressured to end their pregnancies or risk academic failure, despite protections. Women should never have to choose between continuing their education or carrying their babies to full term. This critical legislation will ensure that women have the guidance and resources they need to navigate pregnancy while successfully completing their degrees. I also had the honor of meeting some constituents from across Michigan who journeyed to Washington to participate in the March for Life.
Reflecting on 1 Year of the Trump Administration
Tuesday marked the one-year anniversary of President Trump assuming office for his second term. After inheriting an economic crisis, President Trump has quickly begun to reverse burdensome regulations, unleash domestic energy production, and offer vital economic relief. As a result of these efforts, gas prices in Michigan have fallen to below $3 per gallon, inflation is cooling at 2.7%, and Michiganders will receive an increase of up to $11,700 in take-home pay. The Trump administration, with the help of House Republicans, is making much progress, but there is still more work to do. I remain committed to working with the President to deliver lower costs, create economic growth, and restore fiscal responsibility to Washington.
Promoting School Choice
Every student deserves a high-quality education that sets him or her up for success. Charter schools can provide tailored options for students, but outdated rules and facility hurdles make it harder for high-quality schools to open and expand. On Wednesday, I led the House Education and Workforce Committee in marking up two bills to reduce red tape in the federal Charter School Program and expand eligibility to more states. Charter schools serve nearly four million students across 45 states, and many families are still stuck on waiting lists.
At a time when student test scores are stagnant or declining, we should expand access to high-quality options that fit students’ needs.
Securing Funding for St. Joseph County
I recently had the opportunity to stop by St. Joseph County Central Dispatch. Every year, I work with local leaders across my district to identify community needs and request federal funding to support key projects. I’m proud to announce that I recently voted in favor of legislation that will fund several projects throughout Michigan’s 5th District. Among these investments is funding for St. Joseph County to bolster the emergency communications system. This funding will improve this essential system, ensuring that residents in the community have reliable coverage when accessing St. Joseph County’s emergency contact services.