Visiting Monroe with Secretary of Labor Sonderling
Visiting Monroe with Secretary of Labor Sonderling
It was an honor to host Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling in Monroe to showcase the strength, innovation, and resilience of Michigan industry. We had the opportunity to tour both Fluid Equipment Development Company (FEDCO) and Tailor Welded Blanks (TWB) Company and discuss how local education programs at schools like Bedford High School have sparked lifelong interest in manufacturing, how industries in Monroe have provided good-paying jobs for multiple generations, and how opportunities to upskill have propelled our local workforce.
We also had productive discussions about how we can continue working together to strengthen our workforce, grow our economy, expand opportunities for Michigan families, and build stronger communities across our state. Thank you to FEDCO and TWB for letting the Secretary and me stop by!
Signed into Law: Legislation to Combat Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is a severe and growing crisis in Michigan, with children and other vulnerable individuals routinely subjected to forced labor and exploitation. That's why, I introduced the Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act, which was signed into law on Tuesday. My bipartisan legislation equips Department of Labor employees with the training and tools needed to identify trafficking, recognize emerging patterns, and swiftly refer suspected cases to law enforcement. By turning frontline personnel into an early warning system, the law strengthens our ability to protect victims and hold traffickers accountable. I'm proud to see this commonsense legislation become law to help keep our communities safe.
Empowering Businesses in Adrian
On Monday, I had the opportunity to visit a local Chipotle in Adrian and discuss how policies are helping workers keep more of what they earn. Last year, the Working Families Tax Cuts (WFTC) became law, providing real relief to hardworking Michiganders. In addition to delivering the largest tax refund season in history and boosting take-home pay by up to $11,700, this vital legislation included policies like no tax on tips to ensure workers can pocket more of their hard-earned money. This past tax season, over 7.5 million filers claimed no tax on tips, with an average deduction of over $7,000.
Last Chance! Military Academy Nominations Deadline
As a member of Congress, one of my highest honors is nominating a limited number of exceptional students from Michigan’s 5th District to the U.S. Service Academies. The honor of attending a service academy comes with an obligation and commitment to serve in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation. Each year, we have an incredible pool of applicants who put their names forth to attend these great institutions and serve our nation. It is these young people who will become a part of our next generation of military leaders, and I commend them.
Those interested in applying for my nomination can download the application form here and send all requested information to my Jackson District Office no later than October 30, 2026. To learn more, please call my Jackson District Office at (517) 780-9075 or visit my website here.
Prescription Drug Take Back Day
This Saturday, October 24, is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. Proper disposal of unused prescription drugs helps to prevent misuse and 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.