This Past Week

House Passes Resolution Calling for Paul Whelan's Release

As H.Res.552 was brought to the floor for a vote, I spoke in favor of the measure to call on Russia to either provide evidence of wrongdoing, or to release Paul Whelan from their custody. Paul Whelan is a veteran who has been unjustly detained by the Russian government without due process and with little regard for his health and well-being. This week, the House unanimously passed a resolution calling for his release. It is past time to bring Paul home to Michigan.

Protecting Pregnant Workers

Recently, I introduced H.R. 4738, the Pregnancy Discrimination Amendment Act, to strengthen protections for pregnant women in the workplace. There's absolutely no room for pregnancy discrimination in the workplace and the legislation clarifies that a pregnant worker shall receive a workplace accommodation similar to a non-pregnant worker, who is similar in their temporary ability or inability to perform a workplace duty.

Opioid Panel with First Lady Melania Trump

First Lady Melania Trump hosted a roundtable discussion this week to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act becoming law. I was grateful for the opportunity to discuss Jessie's Law, Andy's Place Apartments in Jackson, and share local stories of our ongoing fight to combat the deadly opioid crisis. We have seen glimmers of hope, but there is still more work to do.

Preserving the Great Lakes

I was pleased to see the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announce the GLRI Action Plan III this week, which will expand efforts to help ensure the Great Lakes are in good health for future generations. The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative has supported many successful projects and is critical to cleaning up pollutants, stopping the spread of invasive species like Asian Carp, and reducing algal blooms. The River Raisin Watershed Council hosted their semi-annual meeting, so I was able to give an update on the GLRI Action Plan III, and talk about other initiatives to protect our Great Lakes.

Drug Takeback Day Reminder

Today, Saturday, October 26 is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. This is an important opportunity to raise awareness and encourage the proper disposal of old prescription drugs so they don't end up in the wrong hands. If you have any unused prescription medications, you can dispose of them in a safe, convenient, and responsible way -- no questions asked. Collection sites are available across the 7th District. Find a list here.