America’s foreign adversaries are increasingly targeting our nation’s students through tactics like stealing research, pushing propaganda, censoring free speech, and exerting influence on colleges and universities. On Thursday, the House passed the DETERRENT Act, which I co-led with Congressman Baumgartner (R-WA) to combat this problem and bring much-needed transparency to the financial ties that our universities have with foreign entities. As Chairman of the Education and Workforce Committee, I moderated debate over the DETERRENT Act on the House floor. I am pleased to see the House pass this critical legislation to bring light to malignant foreign entities lurking in our schools and protect students from foreign adversaries like China.
Protecting our Fisheries
The long-term health of Michigan’s fisheries is vital to our state’s fishing industry, economy, and way of life. The Great Lakes boast diverse wildlife and sustain a thriving $7 billion fishing industry. As a member of the Natural Resources Committee, I participated in a legislative hearing on the Great Lakes Mass Marking Program Act. I partnered with Reps. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Bill Huizenga (R-MI) to introduce this bipartisan bill which will allow for large-scale marking of hatchery stocked fish so we can better track migratory patterns and population changes and improve conservation practices. By implementing the Great Lakes Mass Marking Program, we are ensuring that we have the tools to better understand and protect the long-term health of our fisheries.
On Thursday, I partnered with Representatives Doris Matsui (D-CA) and Rick Allen (R-GA) to introduce legislation to better prepare us for the future deployment of next-generation 6G networks. The Future Uses of Technology Upholding Reliable and Enhanced (FUTURE) Networks Act would direct the FCC to comprise a 6G Task Force to strengthen our networks and protect them from cyberattacks. America must remain at the forefront of innovation as foreign adversaries like China seek to assert their influence.
Developing our Workforce
I had the opportunity to participate in a roundtable with members of the Michigan Works! Association in Cass County to discuss how we can better promote work-based learning and apprenticeships. I also was able to see the progress on the development of the Align Center for Workforce Development. Career centers like these help us to connect workers with job opportunities so we can continue to grow our economy and better compete.
My office is still accepting applications from high school students in Michigan’s 5th District to participate in the Congressional Art Competition. The winning piece of artwork will be displayed in the Cannon Tunnel to the U.S. Capitol, along with the winners from the other congressional districts across the country. If you are interested in submitting your artwork, please do so no later than April 18, 2025, at midnight.
For all the details regarding the Congressional Art Competition guidelines, click here. For answers to additional questions, please call my Jackson District Office at 517-780-9075. I look forward to receiving your submissions and wish all participants good luck!
