Strengthening Our Workforce
As Chairman of the Education and Workforce Committee, I understand firsthand how the workforce is evolving rapidly, and legislation designed over a decade ago is no longer meeting today’s demands. On Tuesday, the committee advanced my bill, A Stronger Workforce for America Act, which would make critical updates to existing law to streamline federal workforce development programs and ensure accountability through the use of performance metrics. This pivotal legislation would also strengthen opportunities for sector partnerships, apprenticeships, and employer-led training and provide funding to allow workers to gain new, valuable skills to advance their careers. We must bring job training into the 21st century, helping Americans gain real-world skills, find good jobs, and power our economy.
Protecting our Great Lakes is essential for preserving Michigan’s cultural heritage and economy, which is why I introduced the Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act. Recently, the House Natural Resources Committee held a legislative hearing on my bill, which would help protect fisheries throughout the Great Lakes. Cormorant populations have devastated fish stocks in the Great Lakes for years, causing millions of dollars in damage to local fisheries. This legislation would ensure double-crested cormorant populations are effectively managed, using science-based measures to protect wildlife habitats and fisheries. Through sustainable management of cormorant populations, Great Lakes fisheries will have the support they need to thrive, boosting Michigan’s economy for years to come.
Michigan farmers work from dawn to dusk to put food on our tables. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Borton Farms and discuss my work to provide economic relief to farmers across Michigan through the Working Families Tax Cuts. This historic legislation strengthens risk management tools, invests in the farm safety net, and expands agricultural trade and specialty crop programs to help Michigan farmers compete. The legislation also permanently doubles the death tax exemption, protecting family-owned farms and allowing them to be passed from one generation to the next. I am proud to support Michigan farmers and help pass legislation that ensures farmers can continue the important work of producing an abundant food supply for years to come. Thank you to Borton Farms for letting me stop by!
Prescription Drug Take Back Day
This Saturday, April 25 is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. Proper disposal of unused prescription drugs helps to prevent misuse and helps keep our communities safe. I encourage residents of Michigan’s 5th District to participate by taking stock of their medicine cabinets and safely disposing of any expired or unneeded medications by dropping them off at a prescription take back site near them between 10am and 2pm. For a list of locations that are participating, please click here.
Over the past few months, it has been wonderful meeting with constituents who have visited our nation’s capital. In honor of America’s 250th birthday, I encourage residents of Michigan’s 5th district to reflect on our nation’s storied history and founding principles. For those visiting Washington, D.C. this year, there are many opportunities to engage with our shared story, including scheduling a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building and visiting the Smithsonian museums. If you or your family are currently planning a visit to DC, please click here for additional information on America 250 themed experiences. If you would like to book a tour of the U.S. Capitol, please visit my website here.