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402 rows where party = "Republican", state = "MI" and year = 2014 sorted by date descending

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http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398120 Forbes: Huizenga's Subcommittee Appointment Shows Hope For Fed Reform 2014-12-26 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Earlier this week, Forbes published a piece detailing why it is important for the Federal Reserve to adopt a rule to determine how it will make decisions regarding monetary policy.  Congressman Huizenga has been an advocate for the Federal Reserve to adopt such a rule and has introduced legislation to increase transparency and accountability at "The Fed." In January, Congressman Huizenga will chair the subcommittee on Monetary Policy and Trade that has direct jurisdiction over how the Federal Reserve operates and conducts business. Below are highlights from the Forbes piece - the full piece if available by clicking on the link below.A Case For A Monetary RuleThe Federal Reserve has long been the world’s most powerful central bank and has become even more so since the 2008 financial crisis. The Fed chairman not only has wide discretion over the course of monetary policy but also over financial regulation. ... In an uncertain world, rules are necessary to limit power and bring about order. The institutional and property rights structure comprise the rules of the game. To be effective, rules must be enforced and widely accepted. This is as true for rules of the road and sports as it is for monetary rules. ...The Fed has a dual mandate to promote price stability and full employment, but there is no monetary rule. Monetary policy depends on forecasting the real economy—and the Fed’s forecasting record is dismal. Not one of the Fed’s large staff of top university PhD economists forecast the Great Recession. The Fed chairman did not predict the subprime crisis or the Great Recession, and the Fed’s army of sophisticated models didn’t predict it either. Actual data is always backward looking, no one knows the future. Yet, Fed Chairwoman Janet Yellen and her Federal Open Market Committee base their decisions about the course of monetary policy—that is, their stance on the benchmark federal funds rate—on guesses about the path of the economy. ...   Given the Fed’s poor history, now is the appropriate time to have a national… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/jackson-post-office-honor-fallen-police-officer-james-bonneau Jackson Post Office to Honor Fallen Police Officer James Bonneau 2014-12-18 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. President Obama signed into law a bill to rename the U.S. Post Office in downtown Jackson as the "Officer James Bonneau Memorial Post Office." Officer James Bonneau was killed in 2010 while on duty as he and a fellow public safety officer followed up on a domestic disturbance complaint. The legislation introduced by Rep. Tim Walberg, H.R. 3534, passed the House on July 14, 2014 and received final Congressional approval in the Senate on December 8. "Over four years have passed since Officer Bonneau gave his life in service to the Jackson community. With the naming of the Jackson Post Office, we erect a permanent memorial and establish a tangible reminder of his heroic actions and all of those who put their lives on the line to protect the public. Officer Bonneau was described by those closest to him as loyal, genuine, and good-hearted. The naming of the Officer Bonneau Memorial Post Office is a small step to remember his ultimate sacrifice and to affirm that we will never forget what he lived for - duty over self,"said Rep. Walberg. "Our family would like to thank Representative Tim Walberg for his hard work and the dedicatedspirit he has shown us and the City of Jackson throughout the introduction and passage of this bill. We are so grateful that Jim's sacrifice will continue to be remembered by the citizens of Jackson in the years ahead. As great an honor as this is, our wish is that the eventleading up to this could be altered,"added Amy and Marc Bonneau, the parents of James Bonneau. Background: Officer Bonneau graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a degree in Criminal Justice. He graduated from Lansing Community College's Mid-Michigan Police Academy at the top of his class academically before joining the Jackson Police Department. In 2011, Rep. Walberg and Senator Debbie Stabenow posthumously awarded Officer Bonneau the Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of Bravery. Officer Bonneau's parents, Amy and Marc, accepted the award on behalf of their son. The legislation will rename the U… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398118 WZZM: Huizenga talks cutting IRS Budget, Immigration at West Coast Chamber 2014-12-16 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Following the "Breakfast with Bill" Legislative Update to the West Coast Chamber, Congressman Huizenga spoke to WZZM about the latest bipartisan agreement, cutting the IRS budget and President Obama's executive overreach.  Watch WZZM's coverage of the event and interview with Congressman Huizenga by clicking on the picture below . Rep. Huizenga talks budget deal, issues HOLLAND, Mich. (WZZM) - U.S. Congressman Bill Huizenga (R) had a full plate of issues to address in Holland this morning, including the recently passed budget. It was part of a "Breakfast with Bill" event, sponsored by the West Coast Chamber of Commerce. Huizenga says both Democrats and Republicans wanted to avoid another government shut down. He voted in favor of the $1.1 trillion spending package, but says there's still more that needs to be done. Those issues include the Keystone Pipeline and President Obama's executive order on immigration reform. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398117 Op-ed: Why I Voted To Prevent A Government Shutdown 2014-12-15 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Why I Voted To Prevent A Government Shutdown By Rep. Bill Huizenga   There has been a lot of misinformation being spread about the latest bipartisan government funding bill that passed the House on Thursday night, and I wanted to take a few minutes to explain why I ultimately supported the bill. The funding bill known officially as, the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act for FY 2015, passed the House of Representatives 219-206. This bill fully funds the federal government, except the Department of Homeland Security, through the end of September.  The Department of Homeland Security is funded until the end of February.   The reason there are two different timetables for funding the federal government is we know the Senate, as it currently stands, will not consider holding the President accountable for his announced executive actions.  This bill keeps the government running while setting up a direct challenge to President Obama’s executive actions on immigration, after Republicans take control of the Senate and expand our majority in the House. Some opponents of the bill claim that it funds the President's proposed unconstitutional executive actions; however, this bill does not fund illegal activity - it funds the law as written. If the President's executive action is implemented on February 18, 2015, as is currently planned, he will be misusing funds that were intended for a legal purpose.  It is also important to note that I supported the Preventing Executive Overreach on Immigration Act. This bill prohibits the President from exempting or deferring from removal individuals who under the immigration laws are not legally present in the United States. This legislation passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 232-191.  The debate over the President’s executive action is far from over.  A Republican-led Congress has a better chance of holding the President accountable for his power grab than the Republican-led House of Representatives acting alone. In terms of funding, this bi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398396 Upton announces Vicksburg appointment to U.S. Naval Academy 2014-12-15 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy Congressman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, announced today that Gabrielle Perrin, of Vicksburg, Mich., has been accepted to attend the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, Md. Upton recommended Gabrielle for selection to the prestigious service academy last week and has personally congratulated her on the appointment.  Gabrielle is a senior at Vicksburg High School and also attends the Kalamazoo Area Math and Science Center.  “It is my great pleasure to announce Gabrielle’s appointment to the Naval Academy. This is the earliest appointment received by one of our local students in recent memory,” Upton said. “I spoke to Gabrielle last week and she was very excited with the appointment and opportunity to serve her country. It takes years of putting in the hard work to come this far. Gabrielle has excelled in the classroom and on the cross-country course, setting a good example for her peers. I have no doubt that great things are in store for this fine young woman.  “I encourage all local students who are interested in military service to contact my office.”  Upton nominates students to military service academies from Michigan’s Sixth District who have excelled in school and are interviewed by members of his Academy Advisory Board, which is made up of community leaders. The individual academies make the final decision on military appointments. Upton nominated Gabrielle and 16 other Southwest Michigan students to the United States service academies last week. Students interested in attending a service academy are encouraged to contact Upton’s St. Joseph/Benton Harbor District Office for further information at (269) 982-1986. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398395 Upton nominates local youth to United States service academies 2014-12-12 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy The 17 service academy nominees for the 2015-2016 academic year have excelled academically as well as athletically at their respective schools and have gone through an extensive selection process, according to members of the advisory board for Congress Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, who met with the students. “One of my greatest pleasures as a Member of Congress is being able to nominate such talented students to our nation’s prestigious military service academies,” said Upton. “These young men and women follow in the tradition of some of America’s finest leaders and brightest minds. Each member of this group has undergone a rigorous selection process to get to where they are today. They represent the best that Southwest Michigan has to offer. We are so proud of their accomplishments and desire to serve their country.” The selection process included an interview with Upton’s Academy Advisory Board, which is comprised of local community leaders.  Upon approval by the board, the students’ names were given to Upton, who then officially nominated the students to the military academies.  The individual academies will make the final decisions on military appointments. All applicants to military academies must be nominated by a Member of Congress, the President, or the Vice President. “I encourage all area students aspiring to follow in the path of these students to contact my constituent service office in St. Joseph/Benton Harbor to learn more about the academies and nomination process,” said Upton. Students interested in attending a service academy are encouraged to contact Upton’s St. Joseph/Benton Harbor District Office for further information: (269) 982-1986. They may also learn more about the academies by visiting Upton’s website at /constituentservices/serviceacademynominations.htm.  Upton has nominated the following students for the class of 2019: United States Military Academy Matthew Robinson, Dorr, Hopkins High School Tyler Zortman, Augusta, Sutton Park School United States Naval Academy Zoe Vlachos, Kalamazoo,… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398116 Huizenga Votes To Keep The Government Open, Slash IRS Budget 2014-12-11 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Huizenga Votes To Keep The Government Open, Slash IRS Budget f t # e Washington, December 11, 2014 Tonight, Congressman Huizenga (MI-02) released the following statement after voting to keep the government open, slash the IRS Budget, and enact conservative reforms. “This bipartisan agreement remains consistent with the budget negotiated by Rep. Paul Ryan and Sen. Patty Murray. Additionally, this legislation spends less than the most conservative budget put forward by Republicans when we regained the House majority in 2011. “I am also pleased to see the House win the debate to hold the IRS accountable for targeting Americans for their political beliefs. While the IRS Budget reduction is not as much as the $788 million cut I authored and the House adopted during the appropriations process, this $346 million cut sends a message to bureaucrats in Washington that they are on notice.” f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398392 Upton supports bipartisan breast cancer education, prevention bill 2014-12-09 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy While most breast cancers are found in women who are 50 years of age or older, approximately 11 percent of all new cases of breast cancer in the United States are found in women 45 and younger. House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives today urging immediate passage of H.R. 5185, legislation to reauthorize the Young Women’s Breast Health Education and Awareness Requires Learning Young (EARLY) of 2009. Introduced by breast cancer survivor Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla., and Energy and Commerce Committee member Rep. Renee Ellmers, R-N.C., the bipartisan legislation renews programs related to young women’s breast health and breast cancer, including public education, research activities, and outreach and support for young women diagnosed with breast cancer. “While diagnosis and treatment are difficult for women of any age, young survivors often find it even more challenging,” said Upton in his floor remarks. “The prevention, treatment, and ultimately curing of diseases requires an all-hands-on-deck effort to not only educate, but also innovate on new cures and treatments. Early this year, the Energy and Commerce Committee embarked on the 21st Century Cures initiative with the goal of finding cures and treatments for the thousands without one – including this terrible disease. Sadly, we have all been touched in some manner by cancer or some other disease – whether it’s a personal diagnosis or a courageous fight by a loved one. We have been encouraged and humbled by the support we have seen for this initiative, but also understand that there is a great deal of work ahead. We look forward to meeting that challenge and this bill helps us.” H.R. 5185 passed the House by voice vote and now awaits action in the U.S. Senate. This spring, Upton partnered with Rep. Diana DeGette, D-Colo., in launching the bipartisan 21st Century Cures initiative, which seeks to accelerate the discovery, development, and delivery of treatments and cures … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398394 Upton pays tribute to retiring friend, colleague Rep. John Dingell on House floor 2014-12-09 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy Press Releases Upton pays tribute to retiring friend, colleague Rep. John Dingell on House floor f t # e WASHINGTON, DC, December 9, 2014 | Lynn Turner / Nick Culp (269-385-0039 / 202-225-3761) House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives this evening in recognition of his Michigan colleague Rep. John D. Dingell, D-Dearborn, who will be retiring at the close of the 113th Congress after nearly 60 years of congressional service. Dingell, who was first elected in 1955, is the longest-serving member of the House and has the longest uninterrupted congressional tenure in U.S. history. Last year, Upton named the main Energy and Commerce Committee hearing room in 2123 Rayburn House Office Building in honor of Dingell, who served as its chairman from 1981 to 1994 and again from 2007 to 2008. f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398498 Walberg Legislation to Help New Veterans Passes House 2014-12-04 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Press Releases Stay up-to-date on Rep. Walberg’s work on behalf of Michigan's 7th District.   Press Kit Members of the media can view Rep. Walberg’s biography and download an official picture.   Tim in the News Find the latest articles about Rep. Walberg from local and national papers.   Opinion Editorial Read the latest opinion editorials authored by Rep. Walberg.   Latest Videos Videos of Rep. Walberg from the House floor and committees.   Social Media Follow Rep. Walberg on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.   e-Newsletter Archive Stay up-to-date on Rep. Walberg’s work in D.C. and in Michigan through the e-newsletter. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-legislation-help-new-veterans-passes-house Walberg Legislation to Help New Veterans Passes House 2014-12-04 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Today, the House passed the National Defense Authorization Act to provide funding, pay, and authorities for the Armed Forces in 2015. The legislation passed on a bipartisan vote of 300-119 and includes a number of important provisions to provide for our nation's defense and military personnel, including language offered by Rep. Walberg and Sen. Pat Toomey (R-PA) to assist new veterans as they transition back into civilian life. "All our brave men and women in uniform deserve a steady job when they leave military service, but unfortunately many young veterans are now returning home only to face a jobless rate considerably higher than the national average. I'm particularly pleased today's legislation included a commonsense proposal championed by Sen. Toomey and me which will increase veterans resources as they transition to civilian life," said Rep Walberg after the vote. Background: In November 2013, Rep. Walberg introduced H.R. 3493, the Servicemembers Transition Improvement Act, which would help facilitate the transition of members of the Armed Forces to civilian life by requiring the Department of Defense to share specified information on separating servicemembers with State veterans agencies in electronic format. H.R. 3493 is a companion bill to legislation introduced by Sen. Pat Toomey (R-PA) and received eleven bipartisan cosponsors. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398387 Upton grills Takata over defective airbags linked to five deaths, millions of recalls 2014-12-03 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, today grilled Japanese automotive parts manufacturer Takata Corp. concerning its defective airbags, which have been linked to five deaths and resulted in more than 16 million vehicle recalls worldwide. Testifying before the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, Takata was joined by witnesses from Toyota, Honda, BMW, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA). Upton expressed his outrage over the Takata’s inept response and the across-the-board failures of industry and federal regulators to keep American drivers safe. “What should I say to the mom in Michigan who asks me if she and her family are safe behind the wheel?” challenged Upton. “Families across the country expect the safety devices in their vehicles to work; they expect them to provide lifesaving protection they can count on in the event of an accident. They expect problems from earlier models to be reported and fixed, and they expect to be able to get a defect repaired when they find out about it. But sadly, I can’t give those assurances right now.” Immediately before this morning’s hearing, Reuters reported that in 2003 Takata conducted an investigation into an airbag failure in a BMW vehicle, but “concluded the problem was an anomaly.” This revelation follows other recent reports that Takata was testing its product for potential defects in 2004 – more than a year before the company initially claimed it learned of the airbag defects – reportedly at a Takata laboratory in Armada, Mich., and at a test facility in Auburn Hills, Mich. Upton also called into question the failure of Honda to comply with the Transportation Recall Enhancement Accountability and Documentation (TREAD) Act, which requires manufacturers to report the information needed to help NHTSA quickly identify vehicle defects and remove those affected vehicles from the road. Upton authored the bipartisan TREAD Act in 2000 after spearheading an extensive investiga… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398388 Upton supports creation of tax-free savings accounts for Michiganders with disabilities 2014-12-03 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy More than 2 million Michigan adults have some form of a disability and that number is projected to increase by the year 2030, reports the Michigan Department of Community Health. We want to help give those families the opportunity to save for their future and long-term expenses, said U.S. Representative Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, a supporter of the original Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Upton joined his House colleagues this evening in passing bipartisan legislation – H.R. 647, the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act of 2014 – to create tax-free savings accounts (ABLE accounts) for individuals with disabilities to cover qualified expenses such as education, housing, and transportation. Upton is a cosponsor of the ABLE Act, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 404 to 17 and now awaits action in the U.S. Senate. “The ABLE Act empowers millions of Americans with disabilities, enabling them to save for their own future needs without jeopardizing the benefits and services they vitally depend upon,” said Upton. “Through access to tax-free savings accounts, we can help our most vulnerable maintain their health, independence, and quality of life.” The creation of tax-free savings accounts for individuals with disabilities has been a top priority for disability rights advocates in Southwest Michigan. "The ability to save money for housing or home modifications, assistive devices, accessible transportation, education & health care is critical for people with disabilities,” says Joel Cooper, President & CEO at Disability Network Southwest Michigan. “We hear from people with disabilities and family members who would like to put aside some money to pay for these necessities but cannot because they fear that this will jeopardize the health, housing, or community living supports they need to survive. We believe the ABLE Act will provide the security people need to negotiate the expenses that living with a significant disability brings.” Under the ABLE Act, states would have the … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398497 Walberg Votes for ABLE Act to Assist Individuals with Disabilities 2014-12-03 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Press Releases Stay up-to-date on Rep. Walberg’s work on behalf of Michigan's 7th District.   Press Kit Members of the media can view Rep. Walberg’s biography and download an official picture.   Tim in the News Find the latest articles about Rep. Walberg from local and national papers.   Opinion Editorial Read the latest opinion editorials authored by Rep. Walberg.   Latest Videos Videos of Rep. Walberg from the House floor and committees.   Social Media Follow Rep. Walberg on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.   e-Newsletter Archive Stay up-to-date on Rep. Walberg’s work in D.C. and in Michigan through the e-newsletter. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-votes-able-act-assist-individuals-disabilities Walberg Votes for ABLE Act to Assist Individuals with Disabilities 2014-12-03 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Today, Rep. Walberg voted in support of H.R. 647, the ABLE Act of 2014, legislation he cosponsored to create tax-free savings accounts for people born with disabilities to save for future, qualified expenses such as education, housing and medical expenses. H.R. 647 passed with a strong bipartisan vote of 404-17. "Passage of the ABLE Act will help ease some of the challenges faced by people living with disabilities and their families by extending important financial planning tools that will help them achieve their potential. It's a commonsense step which will make a difference for those who need it most," said Rep. Walberg after the vote. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398390 ROLL CALL: Upton Eyes the Architecture of Abundance for Energy 2014-12-02 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy After peeking inside Sen. Lisa Murkowski’s, R-Alaska, energy manifesto Monday for clues on how she’ll run the Energy and Natural Resources Committee next year, we turn today to the corresponding plan by House Energy and Commerce Chairman Fred Upton, R-Mich. Upton’s “Architecture of Abundance,” unveiled in a July speech, takes critical aim at “policies rooted in the old ideas of energy scarcity” to reflect the rapidly changing energy dynamics of the past several years.  That’s a sentiment expressed on both sides of the Capitol, where lawmakers from both parties have called for addressing issues associated with the fracking boom, including environmental concerns, infrastructure, and exports, to name a few. Upton’s plan showcases the committee’s legislative work in the 113th Congress, in contrast to Murkowski’s proposal revealing a detailed look at her own thinking. The contrast reflects Murkowski’s time spent in the minority doing her homework and Upton’s having the luxury of legislating for the four years he’s been atop the powerful Energy and Commerce panel. Upton’s committee has carefully laid the groundwork for a multitude of energy bills that have passed the House through regular order. As a result, the committee will be set to hit the ground running at the outset of the new Congress.  Remember that Upton, with the help of Energy and Power Subcommittee Chairman Edward Whitfield, R-Ky., and Environment and the Economy Chairman John Shimkus, R-Ill., has conducted a great deal of oversight during his tenure. Those efforts, which will be amplified through coordination with Senate GOP counterparts over the next two years, will also help shape policy. House Republicans’ energy bills will find a much friendlier reception in a GOP-led Senate in the next two years than they found in the Democratic Senate for the last four years. The result may be less emphasis on sending message bills across the Capitol and more focus on finding areas of agreement with some Democrats, and even the White House, that could actually… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398386 Upton commemorates World AIDS Day 2014 2014-12-01 2014 2014-12 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy "Today we remember the lives tragically ended because of HIV/AIDS and renew our commitment to the millions more who continue to live with the virus today. Working together, we have made tremendous advances over the past decades in research, treatment, and prevention to offer greater hope for its victims and halt the spread to countless more. We will not rest until this epidemic is stopped once and for all." - Rep. Fred Upton share: f t ​House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, issued the following statement in recognition of World AIDS Day. Observed worldwide on December 1, the day seeks to raise greater public awareness of HIV/AIDS, renew global efforts to stop the epidemic, and remember those lives lost. More than 1.2 million people are currently living in the United States with HIV and almost one in seven are unaware they have the disease, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).“Today we remember the lives tragically ended because of HIV/AIDS and renew our commitment to the millions more who continue to live with the virus today,” said Upton who met this summer with Jeanne White-Ginder, mother of Ryan White, the Indiana teenager who died in 1990 from complications from AIDS after becoming infected with HIV from a contaminated blood treatment. Upton has been a longtime supporter of the Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency (CARE) Act, the largest federally funded program in the United States for people living with HIV/AIDS. “Working together, we have made tremendous advances over the past decades in research, treatment, and prevention to offer greater hope for its victims and halt the spread to countless more. We will not rest until this epidemic is stopped once and for all,” continued Upton. This Congress, Upton’s committee successfully advanced S. 330, the HIV Organ Policy Equity (HOPE) Act, which allows research to fully evaluate the safety and efficacy of organ transplantation between … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398115 GR Press: Huizenga tasked to head US House monetary policy subcommittee 2014-11-25 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Rep. Bill Huizenga tasked to head US House monetary policy subcommittee​ Mlive - Andrew Krietz - November 24, 2014 Come January 2015, one West Michigan legislator will move up the ranks in a new Congress. U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga, R-Zeeland, has been assigned to chair the Financial Services Subcommittee on Monetary Policy and Trade. The position tasks the third-term congressman with the authority to review the Federal Reserve's board and keep oversight on its policies. ... "It's very broad that in one sense, it's dealing with a massive issue and that is the Federal Reserve and our monetary policies," Huizenga said. "For one, all you have to do is look at what's happening at interest rates: cars, mortgages, the value of money. It does seem very academic on one hand, but there's a lot of practical and real-world ramifications." Read the rest of the story in Tuesday's Grand Rapids Press HERE. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398111 LDN: Huizenga says Congress considering response to Obama's immigration executive order 2014-11-24 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy On Friday, Congressman Huizenga spoke with the Ludington Daily News about President Obama's latest executive action, how Congress will respond, and what bipartisan steps can be taken to begin to fix our nation's broken immigration system. Below are excerpts from the interview, which is available in it's entirety here. Huizenga says Congress is considering response to Obama's immigration executive order By Steve Begnoche - Sun Nov 23, 2014. Congressman Bill Huizenga, R-Zeeland, says members of Congress are trying to understand what exactly President Barack Obama’s immigration executive order means and just how far it goes before deciding how to respond. ...   He [Huizenga], like most Republicans, questions if the president has the authority to do what he did, saying that gets very iffy when it comes to issuing work permits. Speaker of the House John Boehner, R-Ohio, Friday filed a lawsuit challenging the president’s authority on health care that could be expanded to include the immigration decision, Huizenga said. The Republican-controlled House had authorized the lawsuit earlier, but Boehner waited until the immigration order to file it. Huizenga said that even Obama previously questioned the authority of the president to order changes. “I agree with him earlier when he said he doesn’t have the authority to do this. He or someone helped change his mind,” Huizenga said. “That really is the heart of the problem. The president is trying to go forward without any kind of legislative process.” ... Huizenga said immigration reform is needed and the current immigration law presents problems to agriculture in west Michigan and high tech industries. “My preference is to go after it in a step-by-step process,” he said. One issue that needs to be tackled is border security. Huizenga said he agreed with Obama’s call Thursday night for higher pay for border patrols. “There are some things we aren’t that far apart on,” he said. “We have to go in fix the ag part of this in west Michigan. There are not enough visas to a… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141205214920/http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398496 Cit Pat | Sticker shock in Year Two of buying health insurance the Obamacare way 2014-11-24 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 web.archive.org     legacy JACKSON, MI – It is tempting to denounce the President of the United States right now, but he's not responsible for every disappointment that comes my way. As one of 19 million Americans covered by private health insurance we buy ourselves, I noted a recent Kaiser Family Foundation survey that found prices rose just 3 percent in 2014 for family insurance coverage supplied in the workplace a job benefit. This was called positive news that "continues a recent trend of modest increases." "Boy oh boy!" I said. "I could sure enjoy a little taste of that trend!" Hope was shattered Nov. 15, when Year Two began for buying health insurance through the government "marketplace." "Thanks a lot, Obama!" I howled at the new prices. To buy the same Blue Care Network coverage for the same three people in 2015, my family's cost will jump 17 percent in January. Our price rose 8 percent this year, even though we cut the number of family members covered from four to three. That's a 26-percent increase over two years for covering 25 percent fewer people. Where's our positive modest increase, Kaiser Family? Closer reading of the foundation's report reveals the 3-percent increase is something of a sham. Survey-takers also found deductibles, the money patients must pay before insurance benefits kick in, keep rising. The average deductible is up 47 percent since 2009. Employers are switching to worse insurance and still paying 3 percent more. Unlike a large corporation, I cannot switch to cheaper insurance because I already purchase the worst coverage allowed by law. Our family deductible is so high people gasp in disbelief. Local experts say some insurers selling health coverage in the Jackson area actually cut prices for 2015. I assume that's true for some companies in the middle of the pack on pricing, but the bottom-end cost paid by our family went up sharply. Blaming Obamacare is tempting, but health insurance prices rose every year, and often obscenely, before Obamacare was invented. That's why it was invented. Maybe health insuran… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398110 Huizenga Questions Phony IAIS Transparency, Calls For Real Openness 2014-11-21 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Huizenga Questions Phony IAIS Transparency, Calls For Real Openness f t # e Washington, November 21, 2014 House Lawmakers See Problems With IAIS Despite Assurances of Federal Regulators  By K. Claire Compton | November 18, 2014 09:59PM ET Nov. 18 (BNA) -- Lawmakers who want greater involvement in negotiations over global insurance standards told regulators Nov. 18 they're keeping an eye on the process and aren't satisfied with its transparency so far. The self-described “Team U.S.A.,” made up of regulators representing the Federal Reserve Board, the Treasury Department and state authorities, appeared before a House panel to update members on international standards currently being developed by the International Association for Insurance Supervisors (IAIS). ... The Fed and Treasury representatives took the opportunity of the hearing to characterize the change as increasing transparency by eliminating the ability to “pay to play,” and preserving the IAIS's independence from the industry. ... Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-Mich.), however, disagreed. “You might think it's an improvement, but there are a whole lot of people who don't think it's an improvement,” Huizenga said to McRaith. “You've cut off the highway before you put on the on-ramp. There's no on-ramp or off-ramp. Mr. [Roy] Woodall was not allowed to come to meetings—this flies in the face of transparency.” Woodall, the Financial Stability Oversight Council's independent insurance expert, became an IAIS observer in February of this year, a status that will no longer confer special access. Woodall had been seeking greater involvement in the IAIS for several months prior to becoming an observer. “Relegating systemic risk policymakers to only those opportunities afforded to the general public would reduce the likelihood of effective … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398109 Huizenga Named Chairman of Monetary Policy & Trade Subcommittee 2014-11-20 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Today, Financial Services Committee Chairman Jeb Hensarling announced that Congressman Huizenga has been selected to Chair the Financial Services Subcommittee on Monetary Policy & Trade for the 114th Congress.   “I am honored and excited at the opportunity to serve as Chairman of the Monetary Policy and Trade Subcommittee,” said Huizenga. “As Chairman, my goal is to conduct vigorous oversight of the Federal Reserve and ensure monetary policy is formulated in an open and transparent manner.”  “In a short period of time, Bill has proven himself to be an effective leader and bridge builder on the Financial Services Committee,” said Chairman Hensarling. “I am looking forward to Bill continuing to be a pragmatic, solutions-oriented legislator as Chairman of the Monetary Policy and Trade Subcommittee.”   As Chair, Congressman Huizenga will continue the subcommittee’s oversight of how the Federal Reserve’s Board of Governors conducts monetary policy as well as general oversight of the Federal Reserve System.  The subcommittee will also review our nation’s international monetary and trade policies to ensure they promote domestic economic growth and create an open and competitive global marketplace. The Subcommittee on Monetary Policy and Trade has jurisdiction over legislation in the House pertaining to: The impact of monetary policy on the economy, financial actions on interest rates, the allocation of credit, and the structure and functioning of domestic financial institutions;  International investment policies, both as they relate to United States investments for trade purposes by citizens of the United States and investments made by all foreign entities in the United States;  The Export-Import Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank;  Coins, coinage, currency, and medals, including commemorative coins and medals, proof and mint sets and other special coins, and counterfeiting.  Congressman Huize… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398381 Upton votes to bolster Michigans manufacturing growth, improve federal permitting processes 2014-11-20 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy Michigan today leads the nation in manufacturing job creation, accounting for more than a half million jobs and more than 90 percent of the state’s exports, according to the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM). That is a record of economic growth and opportunity that we want to see continue, says House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph. Upton and his colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives today passed important legislation that will boost manufacturing in states like Michigan and help create more jobs. H.R. 4795, the Promoting New Manufacturing Act, supports U.S. employers by providing them with greater transparency and timeliness in obtaining the federal permits necessary for new manufacturing. H.R. 4795 passed the House by a bipartisan vote of 238 to 172 and now awaits action in the U.S. Senate. “The United States has all the ingredients to strengthen our domestic manufacturing dominance,” said Upton, who was recently recognized by NAM for his leadership on issues of importance to domestic manufacturers. “We have the affordable energy supply to run our factories, especially our growing abundance of natural gas. We have private investors willing to invest billions of dollars on new projects in America. We have a workforce that is second to none, but many of whom need jobs. And we have the technical knowledge to build manufacturing facilities that are the cleanest and most efficient in the world. All we need is a regulatory process that will allow it to happen.” H.R. 4795 increases public transparency by requiring the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to publish on its website the total number of preconstruction permits issued; the percentage of permits issued within one year of the filing of a completed application; and the EPA Appeals Board’s average timeline for deciding appeals of preconstruction permit application decisions. “We want to be a world leader in manufacturing, not in red tape,” continued Upton. “I am glad the President identified the potential of… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398382 FOX NEWS: Partnering for Cures: Medical innovators team up to treat deadly diseases 2014-11-20 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy “[With] disease, it doesn’t matter if you’re a Republican or a Democrat or Independent … We want to solve these issues,” said Upton. “[There are] 7,000 diseases; we have cures for only about 500, and why can't we work together to try and help every family across the country in speeding up the approval of drugs and devices?” share: f t Team work. That was the theme when medical thought leaders converged on New York City recently for the Faster Cures Center of the Milken Institute’s “Partnering for Cures” conference where Fox News’ own Dr. Manny Alvarez was a panel moderator. The event brings together medical experts, policy makers, industry leaders, and philanthropists to share ideas on how they can work together to speed the research and development of cures for the world’s most devastating diseases. … Dr. Sangeeta Bhatia, a professor and director of the laboratory for multiscale regenerative technologies at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), who spoke at the meeting, said combining medicine and technology has paved the way for important discoveries in her own work. “One of the key breakthroughs was using engineering technologies, the microfabrication tools that were developed for making computer chips, to instead make little liver tissues,” Bhatia told FoxNews.com. “And that combination of fields has really accelerated progress, so now we can make little human microlivers. They're as big as the head of a pin, and we can use them to predict how patients would respond to drugs, to make them safer, and also to make medicines to kill infections of the liver like hepatitis and malaria.” Medical breakthroughs like Bhatia’s microlivers have caught the attention of policy makers who recognize the need to revamp the notoriously slow process of bringing medical innovations to the market. “Most of our institutions, the [National Institutes of Health], the [Food and Drug Administration] — they were founded back before we did the kind of research that we d… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398384 Upton responds to Presidents immigration order 2014-11-20 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy U.S. Representative Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, issued the following statement in response to the President’s executive action on immigration. During the past two years, Upton has helped lead an effort in the U.S. House of Representatives to get bipartisan immigration reform legislation enacted. “As I’ve long said, our current immigration system is broken and needs bipartisan reform. That means all sides working together – Democrats and Republicans, the White House and Congress – to get the job done,” Upton said. “The President’s ‘go it alone’ approach drives a political wedge into ongoing reform efforts and recklessly disregards our nation’s lawmaking process. And meanwhile, Michigan farmers, employers, law enforcement, and families will continue to live and work under a cloud of uncertainty as our laws are decided at the whim of a lame-duck White House. It’s time for real, thoughtful solutions, not more partisan maneuvering.” In October, Upton welcomed his Florida colleague and chair of the Congressional Hispanic Conference Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart to Kalamazoo, Mich., to share their ongoing immigration reform efforts in Congress, learn of the community’s concerns, and encourage a constructive local dialogue on the issue. Upton and Diaz-Balart hosted an immigration roundtable discussion with local agriculture and business leaders at Southwest Michigan First and met with community members at the Dia de los Muertos celebration at St. Joseph Catholic Church hosted by the Hispanic American Council of Kalamazoo. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398493 Walberg Votes to Promote Manufacturing and Create More American Jobs 2014-11-20 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Press Releases Stay up-to-date on Rep. Walberg’s work on behalf of Michigan's 7th District.   Press Kit Members of the media can view Rep. Walberg’s biography and download an official picture.   Tim in the News Find the latest articles about Rep. Walberg from local and national papers.   Opinion Editorial Read the latest opinion editorials authored by Rep. Walberg.   Latest Videos Videos of Rep. Walberg from the House floor and committees.   Social Media Follow Rep. Walberg on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.   e-Newsletter Archive Stay up-to-date on Rep. Walberg’s work in D.C. and in Michigan through the e-newsletter. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-votes-promote-manufacturing-and-create-more-american-jobs Walberg Votes to Promote Manufacturing and Create More American Jobs 2014-11-20 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C.Today, Rep. Walberg voted in favor of H.R. 4795, the Promoting New Manufacturing Act, to encourage investment in American manufacturing. The legislation passed with bipartisan support by a vote of 238 to 172. "If our country is to remain globally competitive in the manufacturing sector with nations like China, Washington must provide clear guidelines to industry instead of the current onslaught of unpredictable, arbitrary regulations. This legislation cuts federal red tape, holds the EPA accountable and lays out a transparent construction permitting process so hardworking Americans can get back to work and help grow a healthy economy." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398108 Huizenga Celebrates National Adoption Day, Praises West Michigan Families 2014-11-19 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Huizenga Celebrates National Adoption Day, Praises West Michigan Families f t # e Washington, November 19, 2014 To mark National Adoption Day, Congressman Huizenga discussed how West Michigan families have led by example and opened their hearts as well as their homes to children from across the country so they can have a new start and a new family. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398380 House approves Uptons bipartisan satellite TV bill 2014-11-19 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy The U.S. House of Representatives today approved bipartisan legislation introduced by House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, to ensure 1.5 million American satellite television viewers continue to receive broadcast programming. H.R. 5782, the STELA Reauthorization Act of 2014, extends for five years the Satellite Television Extension and Localism Act (STELA), which expires at the end of the year. The bill also includes a number of targeted reforms to better meet the needs of today’s video marketplace. “The STELA Reauthorization Act is an important piece of legislation that ensures that millions of satellite TV subscribers continue to receive broadcast TV programming from their chosen satellite provider,” said Upton in his remarks on the House floor. “In addition to reauthorizing the distant signals offered by satellite providers, we were able to include targeted reforms that will in fact enhance the video marketplace and allow consumers to access the programming that they want, when they want it. These reforms are prime examples of the kinds of deregulatory changes we are looking at as we work to replace the 80-year-old Communications Act.” The House approved Upton’s H.R. 5782 by voice vote. The extension must now be approved by the U.S. Senate and signed by the President before December 31, 2014. Upton’s full remarks as delivered on the House floor follow: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m pleased to offer yet another outstanding example of bipartisanship and thoughtful policymaking from the Energy and Commerce Committee. The STELA Reauthorization Act is an important piece of legislation that ensures that millions of satellite TV subscribers continue to receive broadcast TV programming from their chosen satellite provider. We have reached across party lines and across the two houses of Congress to craft a compromise bill for this must-pass legislation that will improve the video marketplace for TV viewers across the country.  In addition to reauthorizing the distant signals offered by… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398106 Advisory: Veterans Workshop At The VFW In Muskegon This Saturday 2014-11-18 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Advisory: Veterans Workshop At The VFW In Muskegon This Saturday f t # e Washington, November 18, 2014 This Saturday, the VFW in Muskegon will be hosting a Medals and Records Workshop for West Michigan veterans.  Staff from Congressman Huizenga’s Office will be on hand to assist veterans, as well as family members, navigate and fill out the forms necessary to obtain service medals, receive copies of the veteran’s military service records, and answer any questions that may arise.  The workshop will start at 10 AM and run until 2 PM at VFW Post 446, which is located at 165 S. Getty Street in Muskegon.    What: Veterans Medals & Records Workshop  Where: VFW Post 446 - 165 S. Getty Street in Muskegon.  When: Saturday, November 22nd from 10 AM – 2 PM  Who: West Michigan Veterans / Congressional Staff 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398378 Upton honored with Crime Fighter Award by anti-crime group 2014-11-18 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy One of the most effective ways to reduce crime rates and save taxpayer dollars is through evidence-based investments in crime prevention, says Fight Crime: Invest in Kids, a national anti-crime organization made up of law enforcement leaders and violence survivors. By investing early in at-risk youth, the costly, generational cycle of violence, abuse, and neglect can be stopped. Fight Crime: Invest in Kids today honored U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, with its “Crime Fighter Award” for his efforts on behalf of at-risk children and families. The award recognizes Upton’s support of the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) program, which provides funding for states to support voluntary home visiting programs that are proven to improve child health, prevent abuse and neglect, encourage positive parenting, and promote school readiness. As Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, Upton helped ensure a continuation of federal funding for MIECHV, which was set to expire at the end of Fiscal Year 2014. “We know that the early investments made in a child’s life can pay off tremendous dividends down the road, whether that means graduating from high school, landing a permanent job, or staying out of jail,” said Upton. “Like in so many things, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. By investing in our most vulnerable, we can help give these kids a real shot at becoming productive members of society. It is not only a better use of taxpayer dollars, it is a moral investment in our nation’s future.” The “Crime Fighter Award” was presented to Upton by Fight Crime: Invest in Kids member and Berrien County Sheriff L. Paul Bailey. “My number one job as sheriff is to protect public safety by enforcing the law. But after four decades in law enforcement, I know we all are better off if we can prevent crime in the first place,” said Sheriff Bailey. “That is why I came to Washington, DC, today on behalf of the nearly 5,000 law enforcement executives that make up Fight Crime: Invest in Kid… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398105 Michigan Health Care Costs Set To Skyrocket In 2015, Detroit & Lansing Regions To Be Hit With Double Digit Increases 2014-11-17 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy On Friday, the Obama Administration released its health care cost projections for 2015 and the news isn't good for Michigan families.  Despite numerous promises of lower costs from the Administration and its supporters on Capitol Hill, the majority of Michiganders will be hit with significant cost increases in the year ahead.  Making matters worse, residents in the most populous areas of the state, including Detroit and Lansing, are facing double digit increases.   “Throughout the debate on reforming our nation’s health care system, I have continually expressed my reservations about ObamaCare and its ability to provide better access to care at lower costs,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga.  “This latest report again demonstrates that ObamaCare is not and will not be the answer to controlling costs.  Moving forward, we need the President to be a constructive voice in the discussion surrounding patient-centered solutions that empower consumers, drive down costs, and improve care.”  It’s also worth noting that about this time last year, 225,000 Michigan residents found out their insurance was going to be cancelled because of ObamaCare. This year, Michiganders are now finding out they have the opportunity to keep their insurance, it’s just going to cost them.   Below are examples of the looming increases in counties across Michigan under the “Affordable” Care Act. 2nd District  Allegan +2.5% Kent +9.3% Lake +7.4% Mason +7.4% Muskegon +9.3% Newaygo +7.4% Oceana +9.3% Ottawa +8.7% Statewide  Alpena +10.7% Branch +12.3% Clinton +10.5% Eaton +10.5% Genesee +8.5% Ingham +10.5% Jackson + 12.9% Livingston +9.5% Kalamazoo +9.7% Macomb +15.3% Oakland +15.3% St Cl… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398377 Thank our veterans and troops this season with Holiday Mail for Heroes 2014-11-17 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy Help share the spirit of the season with our veterans, members of the military, and their families! share: f t Southwest Michigan is invited to share the spirit of the season with our veterans, members of the military, and their families by participating in the Red Cross Holiday Mail for Heroes program. Now in its eighth consecutive year, the program allows Americans to express their warm greetings of thanks and holiday cheer with members of our Armed Forces. Representative Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, is encouraging area residents, schools, and community organizations to get involved in the nationwide program by sending personalized greeting cards of appreciation. “A holiday greeting card is a simple but meaningful way to let our brave service members, veterans, and their families know how much we care,” said Upton. “The holidays are an especially important time to let these men and women know that we are grateful for their service and appreciate the daily sacrifices that they and their loved ones make for all of us.” Beginning this year, the Holiday Mail for Heroes program takes on a different look as individual Red Cross chapters take complete control of the program, meaning there will no longer be a national P.O. Box to which cards are sent. Local Red Cross offices are collecting, sorting, and distributing the holiday greeting cards. Upton invites constituents to drop off their Holiday Mail for Heroes greeting cards at either of his constituent service offices, in Kalamazoo or St. Joseph/Benton Harbor. Upton’s offices will be accepting cards until Wednesday, December 3. Kalamazoo District Office 157 South Kalamazoo Mall, Suite 180 Kalamazoo, MI 49007 269-385-0039 St Joseph/Benton Harbor District Office 720 Main Street St. Joseph, MI 49085 269-982-1986 The American Red Cross has kindly asked senders to keep in mind a few guidelines: DO: * Include a heartfelt message and signature * Use generic salutations such as “Dear Service Membe… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398375 House passes bipartisan legislation to approve job-creating Keystone XL energy project 2014-11-14 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy Today marks the ninth time the House has voted to advance construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, which has been tied up in red tape now for over six years. share: f t The U.S. House of Representatives today approved bipartisan legislation – H.R. 5682 – to approve the application for the Keystone XL pipeline. The landmark energy project is estimated to support tens of thousands of U.S. jobs and provide for the delivery of affordable North American energy supplies. But despite the untold economic benefits and the environmental “green light” from the U.S. Department of State, the project has remained tied up in red tape for more than six years. House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, praised today’s bipartisan vote of 252 to 161. A vote on the legislation is expected in the U.S. Senate next week. “President Obama famously proclaimed in January 2013 that he would do ‘whatever it takes’ to create jobs and 2014 was renamed the President's so-called ‘Year of Action.’ But when the chips are down, President Obama is incapable of saying ‘yes’ to a project that would create thousands of American jobs and advance our energy security. But despite the President’s excuses, we haven’t given up on finding a bipartisan solution,” said Upton. “Hopefully, this ninth vote is the charm, and the Senate and President will finally agree that after six years, it’s time to say yes to energy and yes to jobs.” The Keystone XL project has been exhaustively studied with more than 22,000 pages of federal environmental review. It is also expected to be one of the safest pipelines ever built, adhering to the new pipeline safety standards that were advanced by Upton and Rep. John Dingell, D-Mich., and signed into law by the President in January 2012. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141114185518/http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398492 Walberg Votes to Move Forward with Keystone XL Pipeline 2014-11-14 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 web.archive.org     legacy Walberg Votes to Move Forward with Keystone XL Pipeline f t # e Washington, Nov 14 Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Walberg voted for H.R. 5682 to provide immediate authority for the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, an energy infrastructure project that has been delayed for over six years. H.R. 5682 passed on a strong bipartisan vote of 252-161. “Bipartisan support for the pipeline continues to grow while the Obama Administration and the Senate have blocked every effort over the last six years to pass this important energy infrastructure and boost our economy.  The Senate and President are out of excuses – let’s approve the Keystone pipeline and begin construction on this project that will create jobs and lower energy costs,” said Rep. Walberg following the vote. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398373 Upton honors U-M med school dean as leader in public health 2014-11-13 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy "The discoveries being made in the life sciences astound and amaze, opening up opportunities for therapies, treatments, and care never before possible. Thanks to the leadership of individuals like Dr. Woolliscroft, the United States will continue to lead the world in providing the highest level of patient care and medical training." - Rep. Upton share: f t House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, today recognized Dr. James O. Woolliscroft as a national leader in the field of public health. Since 2007, Dr. Woolliscroft has served as dean of the University of Michigan Medical School and was recognized this weekend by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) with its highest honor: the Abraham Flexner Award for Distinguished Service to Medical Education.Dr. Woolliscroft has taken an active interest in Upton’s bipartisan 21st Century Cures initiative, which is focused on accelerating the discovery, development, and delivery of lifesaving treatments for patients in the United States. Dr. Woolliscroft participated in Upton’s first Cures roundtable on May 6, 2014, along with leaders from the National Institutes of Health and the Food and Drug Administration. In October, Dr. Woolliscroft welcomed Upton to campus for a tour of the University of Michigan Health System laboratories to see firsthand the incredible scientific discoveries being made by Michigan researchers today. Learn more about 21st Century Cures here Read Dr. Woolliscroft’s October 31 viewpoint in the Kalamazoo Gazette here The full text of Upton’s remarks in the Congressional Record follow: Mr. Speaker, earlier this year, I joined my Energy and Commerce Committee colleague Diana DeGette of Colorado in launching a bipartisan initiative called 21st Century Cures, which is taking the first-ever comprehensive look at the cures process here in the United States – from discovery to development to delivery. Our goal is to help bring lifesaving treatments, devices,… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-votes-move-forward-keystone-xl-pipeline Walberg Votes to Move Forward with Keystone XL Pipeline 2014-11-13 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, Rep. Walberg voted for H.R. 5682 to provide immediate authority for the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, an energy infrastructure project that has been delayed for over six years. H.R. 5682 passed on a strong bipartisan vote of 252-161. "Bipartisan support for the pipeline continues to grow while the Obama Administration and the Senate have blocked every effort over the last six years to pass this important energy infrastructure and boost our economy. The Senate and President are out of excuses let's approve the Keystone pipeline and begin construction on this project that will create jobs and lower energy costs," said Rep. Walberg following the vote. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398372 Upton: Presidents unfair emissions deal with China endangers Michigans recovery, jobs 2014-11-12 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, issued the following statement in response to President Obama’s announcement that he has struck a deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping to reduce carbon emissions. “America’s pain is truly China’s gain. If the President has his way, communities in Michigan and across the country will continue to be at a disadvantage for many years to come. The Chinese are promising to double their emissions while the administration is skirting Congress to impose drastic new regulations inhibiting our own growth and competitiveness. Michigan is at long last on the right track with a resurgence in manufacturing job creation, rising home values, and affordable energy prices. Our families and employers have come too far to turn back the clock on our recovery. Our top priority must be jobs and the economy – plain and simple.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141112185727/http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398491 The Washington Post: VA restructuring plan draws virtually no outside enthusiasm 2014-11-12 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 web.archive.org     legacy The Department of Veterans Affairs on Monday unveiled a restructuring plan to regain the public’s trust and ensure smoother operations after the agency’s recent scheduling scandal, but veterans groups and key members of Congress have expressed little enthusiasm for the proposals. The American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars have said nothing about the plans, which is unusual for a major initiative. Meanwhile, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America expressed cautious optimism, mixed with a dash of criticism. “After years of failure, missed deadlines and disappointment at VA, our veterans will only celebrate when we see results,” IAVA chief executive Paul Rieckhoff said Monday. “We’re all rooting for Secretary McDonald and the VA, but IAVA members won’t be satisfied until the mission is accomplished and we see a measurable difference in local communities nationwide.” Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert McDonald speaks about his efforts to improve services during a news conference at the National Press Club on Nov. 7. (Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP) Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) didn’t address any specifics of the VA plan in a statement about the initiative Monday. Instead, he applauded the department’s recent efforts to hire more health professionals who can help deal with increasing demand. “That’s the senator’s major focus and the subject of his meetings with [VA Secretary Robert McDonald] on VA reform,” said Jeff Frank, a Sanders spokesman. House Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Jeff Miller (R-Fla.), one of the department’s staunchest critics, suggested in a statement Monday that nothing will appease him like seeing quick firings of employees who were responsible for the scheduling scandal, which involved widespread falsification of appointment data to cover up treatment delays. “New plans, initiatives and organizational structures are all well and good, but they will not produce their intended results until VA rids itself of the employees who have shaken veterans’ trust … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-statement-president-s-support-regulating-internet Walberg Statement on Presidents Support for Regulating the Internet 2014-11-11 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Rep. Tim Walberg issued the following statement in response to President Obama's announcement of his support for regulating the Internet as a utility under Title II of the Communications Act: "The President's recently announced support for regulating the Internet as a utility is bad for consumers, entrepreneurs, and the future of our economy. The Internet has served as an engine for economic growth precisely because of its freedom from undue government regulation and interference. The FCC is an independent body and should resist this political pressure from the White House to regulate the internet in a way which will increase online censorship, kill jobs and limit future innovations." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141111190116/http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398489 Walberg Statement on Presidents Support for Regulating the Internet 2014-11-11 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 web.archive.org     legacy Walberg Statement on President’s Support for Regulating the Internet f t # e Washington, Nov 11 WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Tim Walberg issued the following statement in response to President Obama’s announcement of his support for regulating the Internet as a utility under Title II of the Communications Act: "The President's recently announced support for regulating the Internet as a utility is bad for consumers, entrepreneurs, and the future of our economy.  The Internet has served as an engine for economic growth precisely because of its freedom from undue government regulation and interference. The FCC is an independent body and should resist this political pressure from the White House to regulate the internet in a way which will increase online censorship, kill jobs and limit future innovations."    f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141111190150/http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398490 Jackson Cit Pat: Take time to reflect on the many sacrifices our nation's veterans have made for our country 2014-11-11 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 web.archive.org     legacy As we take time this week to pay tribute to our military men and women who have returned home from the battlefield, I hope you will make the day more personal by reflecting on individuals in our community – whether a relative, neighbor or friend – who volunteered to put on a uniform and serve in defense of our great nation. I've been personally inspired by the story of Samuel MacDonald Worthington, a 1934 graduate of Jackson High School who left his position as a draftsman and tool designer to enlist in the Navy.  Although older than most in training, he was determined to excel as a pilot, and served in World War II as a flight instructor and a patrol plane commander. When his overseas tour ended, Lt. (jg) Worthington re-enlisted to ensure that all of his crew members returned home safely.  During his second deployment, Worthington's plane came upon the wreckage of the U.S.S. Indianapolis (CA-35), in the Pacific Ocean – one of the worst at sea naval disasters in history. Just after midnight on July 30, 1945, the U.S.S. Indianapolis with almost 1,200 crew members on board, was hit by two torpedoes from a Japanese submarine. The ship was split into three parts, and it sank within 12 minutes. Three-quarters of the crew died in the attack, making it the largest loss of life at sea in the Navy's history. While on patrol from Saipan to Jinamoc, Worthington and his crew noticed a flash and a large oil slick. They saw the survivors of the tragedy, with sharks around the perimeter, and the crew began dropping all survival gear – including their own life jackets and rafts - but their request for permission to land and pick up survivors was denied. Worthington's daughter Dee-Dee says, "My precious father has passed to his heavenly home, but I still have contact with the radioman. My mother and I were honored to represent my father at the opening of an exhibit at the National Military History Center in Auburn, Indiana. The exhibit included a U.S.S. Indianapolis display with a picture of my dad/crew and an informative write-u… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398370 Upton responds to latest air bag recall reports 2014-11-07 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, today responded to new reports regarding the recalls of vehicles equipped with faulty Takata air bag inflators. The New York Times today reported that Takata may have been aware of the dangerous defect as early as 2004 but failed to alert safety regulators. Upton’s committee began a review of the Takata air bag issue even before these latest revelations, and has already received bipartisan staff briefings from NHTSA and manufacturers on the status of the air bag recalls; the panel’s oversight of the issue is ongoing.“Our first and most urgent priority is ensuring that drivers and their families are safe on the road. As the recalls continue and the faulty airbags are replaced, we also need answers about when the danger was discovered and whether it was concealed from regulators, or not adequately understood once the regulators became aware. A consistent focus for the committee has been information sharing – making sure that as soon as a danger is identified, the regulators are notified and a plan is put into place to address it. Auto safety will continue to be a priority for this committee for the rest of this Congress and well into next year,” said Upton. The Energy and Commerce Committee has been actively engaged on auto safety issues this year. Upton’s committee conducted an extensive investigation into the General Motors ignition switch recall, and recently released a report detailing NHTSA’s failures in identifying the deadly problem. Following this report, Upton and other committee leaders have requested a Government Accountability Office review of NHTSA’s structure and effectiveness, including the agency’s information sharing capabilities. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398371 THE RIPON ADVANCE: Upton outlines priorities for 114th Congress 2014-11-06 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy By Aaron MartinRep. Fred Upton (R-Mich.) recently outlined the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s priorities for the 114th Congress on Wednesday and reflected on the committee’s bipartisan success in the 113th Congress. “At the Energy and Commerce Committee, we have had a proven record of bipartisan success and that will only continue to grow in the coming years,” Upton, the chairman of the committee, said. “Earlier this year, my Democratic colleague Diana DeGette joined me in launching the 21st Century Cures initiative with the goal of accelerating the pace of new cures and treatments. We have heard from patients, researchers, care givers and innovators for the past several months about the tremendous opportunities we have in the United States to find treatments for the thousands of diseases without them and close the gap between the science of cures and how we regulate them.”  Upton said the committee would continue to advance the 21st Century Cures initiative in hopes of bringing hope to patients across the country.  “This is also our chance to govern on energy and environmental policy,” Upton said. “We achieved great bipartisan success in the House this Congress advancing commonsense solutions that seek to harness the benefits of the American energy boom and empower states. We unveiled a broad new energy vision called the Architecture of Abundance, which includes plans to build a modern new energy infrastructure and increase energy efficiency. We want to build off our past successes and work together to see these policies enacted.”  Upton also noted that the committee’s work to update the nation’s communications laws to meet the demands of the 21st century.  “Over the next several months, we will take what we have learned from our hearings and white papers to update the law to boost job creation and economic growth in the innovation era,” Upton said. “Likewise, we have made progress on key issues to consumers, workers and job creators, exploring issues that range from data protection to privacy to manufac… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398368 Upton statement on committee priorities for the 114th Congress 2014-11-05 2014 2014-11 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, issued the following statement regarding the committee’s priorities for the 114th Congress. Upton recently unveiled the #RecordOfSuccess webpage chronicling the committee’s bipartisan achievements in the 113th Congress. “At the Energy and Commerce Committee we have had a proven record of bipartisan success and that will only continue to grow in the coming years. Earlier this year my Democratic colleague Diana DeGette joined me in launching the 21st Century Cures initiative with the goal of accelerating the pace of new cures and treatments. We have heard from patients, researchers, care givers, and innovators for the past several months about the tremendous opportunities we have in the United States to find treatments for the thousands of diseases without them and close the gap between the science of cures and how we regulate them. In the coming weeks we will continue to advance this initiative and work with our colleagues in Congress and the administration to deliver hope to patients and loved ones all across the country.  “This is also our chance to govern on energy and environmental policy. We achieved great bipartisan success in the House this Congress advancing commonsense solutions that seek to harness the benefits of the American energy boom and empower states. We unveiled a broad new energy vision called the Architecture of Abundance, which includes plans to build a modern new energy infrastructure and increase energy efficiency. We want to build off our past successes and work together to see these policies enacted.  “We have also spent the past year gathering input and information to inform our work to bring the nation’s communications laws into the 21st Century. Over the next several months, we will take what we have learned from our hearings and white papers to update the law to boost job creation and economic growth in the innovation era. Likewise, we have made progress on key issues to consumers, workers, and job creators, explori… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398367 Reps. Upton, Diaz-Balart join in Kalamazoo to call for bipartisan immigration reform 2014-10-31 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy The current U.S. immigration system is broken and failing millions, said U.S. Representative Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, who yesterday brought together local leaders for an immigration roundtable discussion at Southwest Michigan First in downtown Kalamazoo. Joining Upton was U.S. Representative Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Fla., who is the cofounder and chair of the Congressional Hispanic Conference in the U.S. House of Representatives. Over the past two years, Upton and Diaz-Balart have been leading a bipartisan effort in the House to get immigration reform legislation enacted. “From the start, Congressman Upton has understood the problems that our immigration system faces, and we have been working together to find an answer that will bolster our economy, respect the rule of law, and protect our nation,” said Rep. Diaz-Balart. “I'm grateful for friends like Congressman Upton who see these problems and have committed themselves to being part of the solution. I look forward to joining him and our House colleagues in the 114th Congress to continue working towards a better tomorrow for our country." The roundtable gave Upton and Diaz-Balart the opportunity to share their ongoing efforts with Southwest Michigan community leaders and to encourage a constructive local dialogue on the issue. Participants included representatives from major area employers, higher education, farmers, and community advocates. “Immigration reform is a critical issue for our country. In Southwest Michigan it really affects three areas: hospitality, university education and agriculture. It's really a matter of national security,” said Ron Kitchens, chief executive officer of local economic development organization Southwest Michigan First. “I'm glad we had the opportunity to speak to Congressman Upton, who is a huge supporter of immigration reform. And I am extremely happy he was able to bring one of the top leaders in the House on this issue, Congressman Diaz-Balart, to talk to Kalamazoo leaders.” Following the roundtable, Upton invited Diaz-Balart t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398107 Huizenga: The Restoration of White Lake Is Great News For Muskegon County 2014-10-30 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02) released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it has officially delisted White Lake from the binational list of toxic hotspots: "Today is a great day for Muskegon County.  Having White Lake removed as an 'area of concern' is a positive development for the communities surrounding White Lake, throughout Michigan, and across the entire Great Lakes region. White Lake's delisting and recovery is very personal to me. I have been involved in the process both as a staff member of former Congressman Peter Hoekstra as well as an elected official since 1997. "The White Lake community has worked diligently to restore their lake to its true potential and provided the rest of the Great Lakes region with a clean up approach to emulate.  Restoration of White Lake will enhance recreational activities, expand economic opportunity, and contribute to building a stronger Whitehall, a stronger Montague, and a stronger Muskegon County." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141029185555/http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398486 Thomson Reuters | IRS clarifies its position on civil forfeitures in uncharged structuring cases 2014-10-29 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 web.archive.org     legacy Following a slew of recent negative press involving IRS’s use of civil forfeiture laws, IRS’s Chief of Criminal Investigation (CI) has issued a statement stating that the agency would no longer pursue the seizure and forfeiture of funds associated solely with legal source “structuring” cases unless there are exceptional circumstances that warrant such seizures or forfeitures. This article provides background on the banking laws implicated in these cases and on the Justice Department’s asset forfeiture program, the facts of a recent high-profile case that brought this issue into the public eye, and proposed legislation to combat perceived civil forfeiture abuses. Background. Under the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA), financial institutions generally must report each deposit, withdrawal, exchange of currency or other payment or transfer which involves a transaction in currency of more than $10,000. Multiple currency transactions must be treated as a single transaction if the financial institution has knowledge that the transactions are by or on behalf of any one person and result in either cash in or cash out totalling more than $10,000 during any one business day. (31 CFR §103.22) A taxpayer may not “structure,” or assist in structuring, his deposits (e.g., by keeping a series of deposits under the $10,000 threshold) in order to avoid BSA requirements. (31 USC 5324(a)(3)) A fine of not more than $250,000, or imprisonment for not more than five years, or both, may be imposed on a person who willfully violates this anti-structuring provision. (31 USC 5322(a)) According to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) website, the DOJ’s Asset Forfeiture Program “encompasses the seizure and forfeiture of assets that represent the proceeds of, or were used to facilitate federal crimes. The primary mission of the Program is to employ asset forfeiture powers in a manner that enhances public safety and security. This is accomplished by removing the proceeds of crime and other assets relied upon by criminals and their associates to perpetua… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398365 Upton wins 2014 Community Health Champion Award 2014-10-28 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy While recently visiting the Family Health Center’s main office in Kalamazoo, Congressman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, was presented an award from the National Association of Community Health Centers Inc.Denise Crawford, president and chief executive officer of the center, along with Dr. Allan Wilke, director of the Family Medicine Residency program of Western Michigan University’s School of Medicine, presented Upton with the 2014 Distinguished Community Health Champion Award “In grateful appreciation for your dedication and commitment during the First Session of the 113th Congress to strengthening and expanding access to vital primary health care services for America’s uninsured and medically underserved.” The award is but a small token for how Fred has supported the Family Health Center’s mission, Crawford said. “We’re glad we have Congressman Fred Upton representing our area,” Crawford said. "Fred has been here many times and is a friend of the health center. He really cares about our mission of providing a range of medical, dental and mental health services for our community members who otherwise couldn’t afford it.” Wilke, whose medical students will get vital, supervised hands-on training in the health center, said he is thankful that Upton supported Western’s medical school as well as the needs of the most vulnerable in Southwest Michigan. "It’s obvious that Fred cares about the people who work here and the people who come here for care,” Wilke said.  "I appreciate his support of the development of the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine and of our Family Medicine residency program at the Family Health Center.” Upton said he was humbled by the award. “People need to get medical treatments, dental screenings and other check-ups to make sure a small problem doesn’t turn into a big one,” Upton said. “Places like the Family Health Centers help the community in myriad ways.  “These care givers are the angels among us and I applaud the work done here by staff, medical school students, d… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141028230712/http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398485 Hillsdale: Walberg introduces legislation to reform civil asset forfeiture laws 2014-10-28 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 web.archive.org     legacy HILLSDALE — Civil asset forfeiture is a practice by which the government can seize and sell a person’s property without the individual ever being charged with a crime. If a person’s property is suspected of being used for criminal activity, then it is subject to seizure; this includes cash, vehicles and even homes. On July 28, Rep. Tim Walberg introduced H.R. 5212 – the Civil Asset Forfeiture Reform Act – which, according to a release, seeks to restore personal property rights under the Fifth Amendment and ensure due process of law by reforming long-standing civil forfeiture policy. In the release, it’s reported current law allows agencies like the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to take property suspected to be connected with a crime without charging, let alone convicting, the property owner of a crime. The Federal Asset Forfeiture Fund collected more than $2 billion in 2013 from civil and criminal forfeitures policy. Cases of civil asset forfeiture have occurred in Michigan. Longtime grocer Terry Dehko, of Fraser, had his bank accounts seized by IRS because they suspected him of being a money launderer. The charges were never filed, but Dehko had to prove his money was not used in a criminal enterprise. In cases throughout the country there have been instances of law enforcement agencies seizing property and using the money for extravagant purchases. Some police agencies have been found to have spent the money on outlandish items like margarita machines or vacation trips for friends of the force. With more and more instances being reported on throughout the country, there has been increased pressure on lawmakers to make a change. This has ultimately led to the pending legislation. In 2012 local police agencies in Hillsdale County reported zero asset forfeiture funds. However, according to the state of Michigan, the Hillsdale County Sheriff and Hillsdale County Prosecutors reported $7,866 in forfeiture funds – that number is up $4,192 from 2011 when $3,674 was reported. For com… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141026184745/http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398484 Washintgon Post: Congress expresses doubt about U.S. Ebola precautions 2014-10-24 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 web.archive.org     legacy Lawmakers voiced skepticism on Friday about Obama administration assurances that government measures are likely to succeed in protecting the United States, and U.S. soldiers overseas, from further spread of the Ebola virus. Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.), who chairs the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, characterized the administration’s response to the disease so far as “bumbling.” “I think we all know that the system is not yet refined to where we could say it is working properly,” he said during a hearing on government management of the disease. Issa and other members of Congress questioned measures the administration had taken to prepare for a possible pandemic before Ebola appeared in U.S. hospitals, and their recommendations to health-care workers and the public since then. The hearing came the morning after a New York doctor who recently returned from West Africa was confirmed to have Ebola. He was the fourth person to be diagnosed with the disease in the United States. Officials from the Department of Health and Human Services and the Defense Department detailed plans for preventing the spread of Ebola at home and among U.S. troops being sent to the disease’s epicenter in West Africa. Earlier this year, President Obama ordered up to 4,000 U.S. soldiers be sent to West Africa to train local health workers, build treatment facilities and help coordinate the international response to the disease. But lawmakers pointed out that the government’s own guidelines for quarantine, travel safety and the protection of medical workers appeared to have evolved in the weeks since Ebola was first diagnosed in a U.S. hospital. “Lately, when a government agency comes before this committee, especially, and tells me, ‘There’s nothing to worry about. We got this,’ that’s when I start to worry,” said Rep. Stephen F. Lynch (D-Mass.). Nicole Laurie, a senior official at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), said the risk of a significant Ebola outbreak in the United States is “remote.” “Based on the fir… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398364 Upton, Committee press President Obama for answers on Ebola response efforts 2014-10-23 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, today led a group of 28 Republican committee members in sending a letter to President Obama, Ebola Response Coordinator Ron Klain, Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia Burwell, and Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson seeking further answers on the administration’s response and preparedness efforts to treat those with Ebola, prevent any further spread in the United States, and stop the spread of the virus at its source in West Africa. The members write, “with a series of questions and recommendations to ensure that the U.S. response to the risks posed by the Ebola outbreak in West Africa is as effective as possible in protecting the public health and safety of the American people. Congress stands ready to serve as a strong and solid partner in solving this crisis.”  Upton and fellow committee members requested more information about the administration’s plan to prevent the spread of Ebola in the United States, rationale behind its opposition to travel restrictions, efforts to improve the development of diagnostic testing and screening, and the capacity of the U.S. public health system to identify and treat patients with Ebola. Read the complete letter online here. “Energy and Commerce Committee members have serious concerns about insufficient planning and preparedness from the administration in response to the ongoing Ebola threat. In an effort to provide some peace of mind to the American people, we continue to ask the administration to outline a clear strategy and work with us to ensure that every step necessary is being taken to protect the public health. With a disease as deadly as Ebola, there is no margin for error,” commented Upton.  Energy and Commerce Committee leaders first sent a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia Burwell seeking details on the administration’s preparedness and response efforts on September 12, 2014. The Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee held a hearing last week, which left memb… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398363 Upton Responds to Air Bag Recalls, Warnings 2014-10-22 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, today responded to the expanded recall of vehicles equipped with faulty Takata air bag inflators and warnings by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) this week urging drivers to get their cars fixed over concerns that air bag rupture could lead to severe injuries. “The auto industry has made vast advancements in safety over the last decades – something to be commended – but as new safety features and technologies are developed, we are faced with new challenges. Airbags were designed to improve safety and help save lives, which is why it’s so disconcerting to hear reports of this life-saving tool posing a potential hazard to drivers. Recalls continue to mount across the country, and drivers are losing confidence. The first priority must be to ensure that all cars on the road are safe, and I urge drivers to heed NHTSA’s warnings and act immediately to get their vehicles fixed. We also need to take a close look at this airbag issue and the timeline and scope of the recalls to ensure that the appropriate steps are being taken to protect drivers and their families. I’ve long said that when it comes to vehicle safety, there can be no margin for error,” said Upton.  Drivers can visit SaferCar.gov to determine if their vehicle is affected by the airbag recalls. Committee staff has requested a briefing with NHTSA on the status of the Takata air bag recalls and will also be meeting with auto manufacturers to discuss supplier issues.  Upton has been a leader on vehicle safety issues and was the author of the TREAD Act, which enhanced communication between auto manufacturers and regulators and increased NHTSA’s ability to collect and analyze information about safety defects. The committee this year has been conducting an extensive investigation into the General Motors ignition switch recall, and recently released a report detailing NHTSA’s failures in identifying the deadly problem. The investigation found NHTSA failed to act on e… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141024000304/http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398483 Forbes: Federal Forfeiture Program: What's It Funding? 2014-10-22 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 web.archive.org     legacy Cops are increasingly looking and acting more like soldiers. How are they paying for all this militarized equipment? One source of funding is particularly disconcerting for Americans’ constitutional rights: equitable sharing. Under this federal forfeiture program, local and state law enforcement can seize—and keep—cash, cars and other property they suspect have links to crime. Yet the taken property overwhelmingly came from people who have done nothing wrong. According to a new investigation by The Washington Post, the government never charged property owners with a crime in 81 percent of equitable sharing cases. Since 2008, 5,400 police departments and task forces have spent $2.5 billion in federally forfeited property. These off-budget funds are a driving force behind the militarization of America’s police forces, giving rise to “warrior cops.”  A Georgia town of 8,000 people spent nearly $80,000 on weapons and protective gear, including 27 M-4 rifles. Another department in Georgia purchased an eight-ton BearCat armored personnel carrier for $227,000. Police in Prince George’s County, Md. obtained a “mobile command bus” worth $1.2 million. Nationwide, police have spent over $175 millionin equitable sharing funds on weaponry. While these procurements are helping transform Officer Friendly into G.I. Joe, other police purchases uncovered by the Post were more lavish. Or just plain ridiculous. To paint kids’ faces at an Easter party, police in Reminderville, Ohio hired “Sparkles the Clown” for $225. One Texas sheriff’s department spent $637 on a coffee maker, and over $5,000 on “banquets, luncheons and fundraisers” and expenses for the “Smokin Pigs Cooking Team.” The Sheriff’s Office in Mesa County, Colo. paid over $8,400 to send 20 lawyers to a conference at a ski resort in 2009. Agencies around the country have bought dozens of “new and used sports and luxury cars, including at least 15 Mercedes, a dozen Mustangs, a handful of BMWs and two Corvettes.” Other police and prosecutors have infamously used forfeiture f… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398362 Upton comments on new travel restrictions for Ebola-affected countries 2014-10-21 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, issued the following statement in response to today’s announcement by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security of new travel restrictions and protective measures to prevent the spread of Ebola to the United States. The new policy would require travelers arriving in the United States whose travel originates in Guinea, Liberia, or Sierra Leone to fly into one of five U.S. airports – John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey, Washington Dulles International Airport in Virginia, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia and O’Hare International Airport in Chicago – that have already adopted enhanced screening measures and added protocols. “Funneling all passengers through these five airports helps close a gap that could have allowed affected travelers into our country with no screening at all, which makes it a good start, but certainly not a complete solution,” Upton stated. “I continue to believe more comprehensive travel restrictions can be used to keep Ebola from spreading and allow us to train all of our resources on treating the sick and containing this disease in the affected countries.” Last week, Upton’s Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held an urgent, bipartisan hearing with some of the United States’ top public health officials to examine the U.S. public health response to Ebola. Upton then questioned Dr. Thomas Frieden, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), on the use of travel restrictions from regions of Africa impacted by the fatal disease. Watch Upton’s exchange with CDC Director Frieden HERE. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141024000437/http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398326 The Blade: Star-spangled assembly kicks off students D.C. trip 2014-10-20 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 web.archive.org     legacy DUNDEE, Mich. — A Dundee High School special assembly last week promoted an upcoming student trip to the nation’s capital, featured a congressman as keynote speaker, and celebrated George Washington with the dedication of a portrait of the first president that came from his Mount Vernon estate. About a dozen students will spend the week before Thanksgiving in Washington catching the sights and learning how government works, said history teacher Paul Walters, who will accompany them. The assembly kicked off with a performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” by the school choir, with piano accompaniment by music teacher Haley Sulisz, that earned applause from the audience in the school gym. Mr. Walters then explained Project Close Up, a national nonprofit program that helps finance field trips to Washington. The students, he said, “get out of school for a week, but it’s not a vacation.” Jon Vogt, another history teacher, who wore a George Washington T-shirt, spoke more about the project, and the choir launched into “When Johnny Comes Marching Home.” Seniors Holly Harnica and Kaitlin Symanns then recalled their experiences on the field trip to D.C. last year. Holly said she would remember the trip all her life and recalled visiting the Supreme Court. But the most memorable part, she said, was interacting with students from around the country. Mr. Vogt then spoke of Mount Vernon and George Washington, telling the students “there’s no one who exemplifies American history” more than the first president. Mr. Vogt promised a box of candy to students who could explain five points from Washington’s Farewell Address, delivered in 1796. The extemporaneous keynote address was given by U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg (R., Tipton). He described the 7th Congressional District, which he represents and which includes Monroe County, as “the gateway to Pure Michigan” and a place of rich history, including the War of 1812. He told the students they were as American as George Washington was, “as American as anyone who came before you,” and that t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398169 Upton touts his committees bipartisan #RecordOfSuccess, unveils new resource chronicling efforts in the 113th Congress 2014-10-17 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy Upton touts his committee’s bipartisan #RecordOfSuccess, unveils new resource chronicling efforts in the 113th Congress f t # e WASHINGTON, DC, October 17, 2014 | Lynn Turner / Nick Culp (269-385-0039 / 202-225-3761) Upton: “In a time of partisan politics, the Energy and Commerce Committee has been able to rise above and get the job done, working together to make a difference for countless families here in Michigan and across the country.” share: f t The House Energy and Commerce Committee today launched its #RecordOfSuccess webpage, highlighting its bipartisan accomplishments in the 113th Congress to create jobs and spur economic growth, modernize government for the innovation era, and protect families, communities, and civic initiatives. Under the leadership of Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, 84 committee bills have cleared the House of Representatives, with 32 bills becoming law, and 52 bills awaiting Senate action.   Upton commented, “I’m very proud of our proven record of success and appreciate the continued bipartisan efforts made by our committee members. In a time of partisan politics, the Energy and Commerce Committee has been able to rise above and get the job done, working together to make a difference for countless families here in Michigan and across the country. But our results should be even better with over four-dozen bills awaiting action in the Senate. I am proud that every single one of our bills received Democratic votes in the House, and over two-dozen bills now on the Senate’s doorstep cleared the House with a veto-proof margin. Our work continues, and we welcome the Senate to swiftly approve our bipartisan bills.”   To view the committee’s #RecordOfSuccess and to track legislation that remains #StuckInTheSenate, cli… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398096 Oceana Herald Journal: Huizenga helps area veterans receive medals earned during time of service 2014-10-16 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Oceana Herald Journal: Huizenga helps area veterans receive medals earned during time of service f t # e Washington, October 16, 2014 Last week, Congressman Huizenga presented veterans from Hart and surrounding communities with the medals they earned during their time of service to our nation.  Below is coverage of the Medals Ceremony from Oceana's Herald Journal. Pictures of the ceremony can be found here.Never forgotten: Veterans Honored and Remembered at Medals Ceremony Oceana Herald Journal - Amanda Dodge - Wednesday, October 15, 2014 12:33 pm Freedom is certainly not free and the sacrifices of so many are encapsulated into a tiny token to be displayed proudly. These tokens are the various medals, ribbons and badges earned by distinguished members of the armed forces. These decorations serve as a reminder of all they have done and what they have given in service to their country. U.S. Representative Bill Huizenga and his staff have made it their mission to work with veterans and the families of deceased veterans in our area to help obtain these honors “earned during their valiant service on behalf of a grateful nation.” Earlier this year, those inquiring about medals were asked to present a copy of their DD 214 to Huizenga’s staff and they then filled out the necessary forms to obtain the medals. This process can take around two months. Once Huizenga’s staff receives the medals they are presented to the veterans during a formal ceremony. According to documents from Huizenga’s office, each veteran or family receiving medals is asked if they would like to be a part of the ceremony, and those that decline had their medals sent to their home. The entire Oceana Herald Journal story can be found here in the "online edition" on the OHJ Website. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398157 Upton holds hearing on U.S. response to Ebola outbreak 2014-10-16 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, held a hearing today with some of the nation’s top public health officials to examine the U.S public health response to the Ebola outbreak. Held by the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, the bipartisan hearing focused on the role of U.S. public health agencies and their efforts to prevent the spread of Ebola within the United States.     “We need all hands on deck. We need a strategy. And we need to protect the American people, first and foremost,” said Upton in his opening remarks. “It’s not a drill – people’s lives are at stake, and the response so far has been unacceptable.”  The preparedness of U.S. ports, points of entry, health care facilities, and other institutions to identify, diagnose, isolate, and treat Ebola patients in a safe and appropriate manner were also evaluated.  “We need a plan to treat those who are sick, to train healthcare workers to safely provide care, and to stop the spread of this disease here at home and at its source in Africa. This includes travel restrictions or bans from that region beginning today,” continued Upton. “Surely we can find other ways to get the aid workers and supplies in to these countries. From terrorist watch lists to quarantines, there are tools used to manage air travel to assure public safety. Why not here? We can no longer be reacting to each day’s crisis. We need to be aggressive and finally get ahead of this outbreak.”  Upton directly questioned Dr. Thomas Frieden, Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), on the use of travel restrictions from regions of Africa impacted by the fatal disease. In addition to CDC Director Frieden, Upton and fellow committee members heard from officials from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and Texas Health Resources. Watch Upton’s opening remarks here Watch Upton’s Q&a… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398058 Upton recognized as champion for Michigan manufacturing jobs 2014-10-15 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, has been recognized by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) for his continued efforts to support the growth of manufacturing in the United States. Upton received the “NAM Award for Manufacturing Legislative Excellence” for his voting record in the 113th Congress on issues that are of importance to domestic manufacturers. Upton was one of only three members of the Michigan delegation to receive a 100 percent rating from NAM. “We are a nation of builders and Michigan manufacturers have been at the forefront of our economic comeback, leading the nation for manufacturing job creation. We want to see that record of growth and innovation continue,” said Upton, who recently took part in Manufacturing Day at Mach Mold in Benton Harbor, Mich. Manufacturing employs more than a half million men and women in Michigan, according to NAM, and accounts for more than 90 percent of the state’s exports. “We need the right policies to keep Michigan manufacturers competitive,” continued Upton. “That means supporting lower energy costs through the responsible production of North American energy; a regulatory system that takes into account economic costs and common sense; properly maintained transportation infrastructure; and a pro-growth tax code that puts our manufacturers on an even footing with overseas competitors.” NAM is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. “Manufacturers in Michigan and throughout the United States are making a comeback, creating jobs, making more products and making them better than ever before,” said NAM Senior Vice President of Policy and Government Relations Aric Newhouse. “However, manufacturers are often disproportionately impacted by decisions made by policymakers in Washington. The NAM is proud to stand with lawmakers like Representative Upton, who understand what is at stake and seek to implement policies t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398010 Upton comments on ongoing Ebola outbreak ahead of Thursdays hearing 2014-10-14 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, released the following statement regarding the ongoing Ebola outbreak. The Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations will hold a hearing this Thursday, October 16, at noon to examine the U.S. public health response to the outbreak. Officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will be among the hearing witnesses. “Ebola has been on the world's radar screen since March and yet the United States and the international community are still scrambling to stay ahead of and stop this outbreak. We remain gravely concerned about this ongoing threat and the committee will continue diligently investigating the response efforts and preparedness plans,” said Upton. “The stakes could not be any higher, and as I have said before, we cannot afford to look back at this point in history and say we could have done more.” More background for Thursday’s hearing is available online here. The committee first sent a letter to HHS Secretary Sylvia Burwell seeking more information regarding the ongoing Ebola outbreak and preparedness and response efforts at home and abroad on September 12, 2014. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397897 Upton blasts White House proposal to bring Guantanamo terrorists to the United States 2014-10-10 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy U.S. Representative Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, issued the following statement in strong opposition to a White House proposal that would bring violent terrorists held at the U.S. Naval Station at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to the United States. Both the House and Senate have repeatedly enacted bipartisan measures, signed by the President, barring any funds from being used to transfer these detainees into the United States.“The recent beheadings of two Americans are a horrific reminder that the threat of radical Islam is real and must be eliminated. The terrorists held at Guantanamo are not ordinary criminals – they are hardened extremists in the midst of an endless war against the United States, our citizens, and values. The American people strongly oppose bringing these dangerous jihadists to U.S. soil and the Congress has repeatedly acted to ensure the current ban on such detainee transfers remains law. The administration’s most recent proposal follows its unlawful release of five senior Taliban leaders this summer. It is a reckless disregard of reality and U.S. law.” Last month, Upton and his House colleagues passed a bipartisan resolution (H.Res.644) condemning the administration for its failure to properly notify Congress before releasing five senior Taliban members from Guantanamo in exchange for the release of U.S. Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl. The non-partisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) – the federal government’s independent internal watchdog agency – found the action to be in violation of U.S. law, which requires Congress to be notified at least 30 days in advance of such a transfer. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397763 Huizenga To Hold Medals Ceremony For West Michigan Veterans In Hart On Wednesday 2014-10-07 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Tomorrow, Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02) will host a medals ceremony at the VFW in Hart at 2:00 PM. Rep. Huizenga will present West Michigan veterans and their families with medals earned during their valiant service on behalf of a grateful nation. The VFW in Hart is located at 802 South State Street in Hart. Congressman Huizenga will give brief opening remarks prior to the medals ceremony. Recipients: Vietnam Veteran: Sargent First Class James Lynwood Roquemore of Hart, U.S. Army. Awards: • Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal with 1 bronze oak leaf cluster • Army Good Conduct Medal, 3rd Award • National Defense Service Medal • Vietnam Service Medal with 2 bronze service stars • Armed Forces Reserve Medal • Army Service Ribbon • Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with Device (1960) • Expert Badge with Auto Rifle Bar • Sharpshooter Badge with Rifle Bar Operation Iraqi Freedom Veteran: Specialist Barbara J. Locke of Hart, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Army Reserves. Awards: • Air Force Good Conduct Medal • Air Force Outstanding Unit Award • Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon • Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal • Army Commendation Medal • Army Achievement Medal • Army Good Conduct Medal • National Defense Service Medal • Armed Forces Reserve Medal with letter "M" device • Overseas Service Ribbon • Marksman Badge with Auto Rifle Bar • Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal • Global War on Terror Service Medal World War II Veteran: Donald E. Grey, Formerly of Walkersville, U.S. Army. Accepting on behalf of his father, Daniel E. Grey Awards: • Army Good Conduct Medal • American Campaign Medal • European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 2 bronze service stars • World War II Victory medal • Army of Occupation Medal with Germany Clasp • Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII Vietnam Veteran: Specialist Raymond Mack Shineldecker (Killed in Action), Formerly of Muskegon, U.S. Army. Accepting on behalf… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397699 Upton convenes 21st Century Cures roundtable at WMU Medical School 2014-10-07 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy Over the past several months, the bipartisan 21st Century Cures initiative has fostered a robust conversation among patients, researchers, medical professionals, and advocates from across the country on how to accelerate the pace at which lifesaving medical treatments are discovered, developed, and delivered in the United States. Launched this spring by House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, the initiative aims to save patients lives through faster cures and help employers in states like Michigan continue to be global leaders in medical innovation. This morning, Upton brings his 21st Century Cures conversation to Southwest Michigan with a roundtable discussion between distinguished health industry leaders at the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine in downtown Kalamazoo. Opening Statement of House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (as prepared for delivery): Today we continue our tremendous bipartisan efforts on the 21st Century Cures initiative with this Southwest Michigan roundtable. Launched this spring, the initiative aims to save patients’ lives through faster cures and help employers in states like our great state of Michigan to continue to be global leaders in medical innovation. Today we will discuss ideas that we have received over the past several months and look to more specific steps we can take to accelerate the cycle of cures and the role Southwest Michigan’s patients, researchers, medical professionals, advocates,  and industry play  in keeping America the innovation capital of the world. Over the past several months, the 21st Century Cures initiative has fostered a robust conversation and a number of our committee members have held roundtables across the country to hear about how American innovation is providing hope, saving lives and creating jobs. Today is no exception. It will provide an opportunity for us to see how Southwest Michigan can help accelerate the cycle of cures and make a real difference in the lives … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397738 Upton comments on discovery of Asian carp eDNA in Kalamazoo River 2014-10-07 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy U.S. Representative Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, issued the following statement in response to today’s announcement by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) that a water sample within the lower Kalamazoo River, Allegan County, tested positive for Asian carp environmental DNA (eDNA).“This finding is a frightening reminder of the threat posed to our fragile Great Lakes ecosystem. Building upon the success of this year’s water resources bill, the Great Lakes region must work together to find a solution that protects our treasured waters for future generations,” said Upton, a leading member of the congressional Great Lakes Task Force. “Thousands of jobs hang in the balance as our Great Lakes support a multi-billion-dollar fishing industry, which could be quickly decimated if the carp reach our waters. I applaud Governor Snyder for recognizing the urgency of this situation. We must all remain vigilant until this destructive force is stopped.” Upton’s office has been in close contact with the State of Michigan and will receive additional information as further testing is conducted. Earlier this year, Upton voted for the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) of 2014, which passed the House by a nearly unanimous vote of 412 to 4. Now law, WRRDA seeks to prevent the spread of Asian carp by requiring USFWS – along with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, and U.S. Geological Survey – to provide technical assistance, coordination, and support to state and local governments. Additionally, WRRDA authorizes the Army Corps to make modifications and enhancements to existing projects to prevent the spread of invasive species within the Great Lakes. Per the Michigan DNR and USFWS, 200 water samples were taken along the Kalamazoo River in June 2014 and then again in July. Of those latter 200 samples, one tested positive for Asian carp eDNA. The findings “indicate the presence of genetic material of silver carp, such as scales, excrement or mucous… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397616 Upton celebrates Southwest Michigan manufacturers for innovation, job creation 2014-10-03 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy ​Hundreds of area students and community members turned out for Southwest Michigan’s second annual Manufacturing Day today at Mach Mold in Benton Harbor for the opportunity to interact with area manufacturing businesses and learn more about careers in the manufacturing industry. More than 1,500 similar events were held across the country today to recognize America’s manufacturers and their successes in innovation, job creation, and community development.U.S. Representative Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, spent the morning speaking with exhibitors and students representing a dozen local schools. As part of the visit, Upton also sat down for a roundtable discussion with business owners, community development leaders, and elected officials, where he shared his bipartisan efforts to bring greater certainty to Michigan’s economy and accelerate job creation and economic growth. “Manufacturing is the backbone of our economy here in Southwest Michigan – we need to give these local businesses, large and small, the certainty they need to continue to innovate, grow their operations, and create jobs,” said Upton, who was at Mann + Hummel in Kalamazoo, Mich., earlier this week as the auto component manufacturer dedicated its $17.4 million expansion, which will bring 70 new jobs to the area. Michigan now leads the nation as the state that is creating the most new manufacturing jobs. That trend has been supported by statewide reforms, including passage of the Proposal 1 ballot initiative in August 2014, which will save businesses more than $550 million by eliminating the personal property tax on industrial and commercial personal property. “We have made impressive progress toward strengthening our manufacturing dominance in recent years, but we can do better with the right policies. As we stand at the verge of a manufacturing renaissance, it is more important now than ever that we construct a regulatory framework that allows our manufacturers to thrive,” continued Upton, who serves as Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committ… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397413 Huizenga Highlighted For Stellar Committee Attendance 2014-10-01 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy This week, the Washington Examiner took a look at how Members of the U.S. House of Representatives tended to their committee assignments. The report shined an important light on how elected officials spend their time in Washington. Representative Huizenga was noted for having one of the best records in Congress for attending Financial Services Committee meetings and hearings.  The Financial Services Committee has jurisdiction over issues pertaining to the economy, the banking system, housing, insurance, and securities and exchanges. Additionally, the Committee also has jurisdiction over monetary policy, international finance, international monetary organizations, and efforts to combat terrorist financing.  Below are highlights from the Washington Examiner, the piece can be read in it's entirety here. Many House members miss more than two-thirds of their committee meetings​ The Washington Examiner - September 29, 2014 Dozens of members of the U.S. House of Representatives have missed two-thirds of this session's committee meetings, where much of the nuts-and-bolts work of Congress gets done, a Washington Examiner analysis found. ...  The Examiner analyzed 1,000 committee and subcommittee hearing minutes published by the Government Printing Office for the present Congress. The GPO does not publish minutes of all hearings, and half of those that were published didn’t list attendees, so the data aren’t comprehensive. ... Among members with the best attendance record is Rep. John Conyers Jr., D-Mich., who missed only one of 39 House Judiciary Committee hearings this session. The 85-year-old Conyers is ranking minority member of the committee. He was first elected to the House in 1965 and is the chamber's second-longest serving member. Only five other House members had rates as good as or better than Conyers: Democrat Al Green of Texas and Republicans Andy Barr of Kentucky, Bill Huizenga of Michigan, Scott Garrett of New Jersey and Robert Pittenger of North Carolina. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397618 Upton announces blockbuster lineup for 21st Century Cures roundtable in Kalamazoo 2014-10-01 2014 2014-10 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy "Michigan has an important role to play in this effort to provide more hope for families, and better treatments and cures for patients.” - Rep. Upton share: f t Over the past several months, the bipartisan 21st Century Cures initiative has fostered a robust conversation among patients, researchers, medical professionals, and advocates from across the country on how to accelerate the pace at which lifesaving medical treatments are discovered, developed, and delivered in the United States. Launched this spring by House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, the initiative aims to save patients lives through faster cures and help employers in states like Michigan continue to be global leaders in medical innovation.Upton announced yesterday that he will be bringing his 21st Century Cures conversation to Southwest Michigan with a roundtable discussion between distinguished health industry leaders (listed below). Members of the public are invited to join the Cures conversation on digital media via Facebook and Twitter by using the hashtag #Path2Cures. Additional information on 21st Century Cures may be found online at http://energycommerce.house.gov/cures.  Participants will include:   Ms. Kirsten Axelsen, Vice President of Worldwide Policy, Pfizer @pfizer Mr. Stephen Benoit, CEO, Metabolic Solutions Development Company @stephencbenoit The Hon. Michael Burgess, M.D., Member of Congress @michaelcburgess Dr. Francis Collins, Director, National Institutes of Health @NIHDirector Dr. Hal Jenson, Founding Dean and Professor, Western Michigan University School of Medicine @WMUMedicine Dr. Peter Jones, Research Director and Chief Scientific Officer, Van Andel Research Institute @VAInstitute Mr. Kevin Lobo, Chairman and CEO, Stryker Corporation @StrykerNews Mr. Tony Mandarino, Director, The Alex Mandarino Foundation Dr. Joseph Mirro, President, CEO, and Chief Medical Officer, West Michigan Cancer Center @WestMICancerCtr Mr. William Parfet,… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397330 Upton to hold #Path2Cures roundtable at WMU medical school 2014-09-30 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy The health sciences have deep roots in Southwest Michigan dating back to the founding of the Upjohn Company in the 19th century. Today, employers like Perrigo, Pfizer, MPI Research, and Stryker continue to lead the world in medical innovation while providing for thousands of jobs across the region. House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, wants to make sure that local legacy of delivering life-saving treatments and cures continues to grow in the 21st century and beyond. That is why Upton joined Rep. Diana DeGette, D-Colo., earlier this year in launching a new bipartisan initiative called 21st Century Cures. Their goal is to accelerate the pace at which lifesaving medical treatments are discovered, developed, and delivered in the United States. Through a series of hearings, roundtables, and white papers, Upton’s committee has spent the past several months taking the first-ever comprehensive look at the cycle of cures, gathering invaluable input from patients, researchers, medical professionals, and advocates from across the country. Upton plans to unveil legislation based on the feedback received over the past several months at the start of the 114th Congress.  Upton today announced that he will be bringing his 21st Century Cures conversation to Southwest Michigan with a roundtable next Tuesday, October 7, 2014, at the newly opened Western Michigan University (WMU) Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine at the W.E. Upjohn campus in downtown Kalamazoo. Dr. Francis Collins, Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and Dr. Jeff Shuren, Director of the Center for Devices and Radiological Health at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), will be among the featured participants. “This has been a truly collaborative and bipartisan effort from the very beginning. Every one of us has been impacted by a life-threatening disease in one way or another, which is why this work is so important,” said Upton. “Southwest Michigan has long been synonymous with cutting-edge medical research an… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397379 Upton Comments on Confirmed Ebola Case in the United States 2014-09-30 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy With news of the first confirmed Ebola case in the United States, Congressman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, issued the following statement about the confirmed case of Ebola in the United States: “Given the severity of the outbreak in Africa, perhaps it was only a matter of time for the first case of Ebola to reach our shores,” said Upton, who is also chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. “Nevertheless, today’s news should serve as a wake up call. “As I have said before, the response to this outbreak must be an all-hands-on-deck effort. This is not just an Africa or United States problem. This is a global problem. “The United States has a first-class health care system and we will continue to take every step necessary to contain and prevent the spread of this disease and ensure the public health. But with the increased urgency of a U.S. case, our oversight efforts will play an increasingly important role, as will the efforts of all those involved in fighting the spread of Ebola. “The committee looks forward to having a hearing with top administration officials in the coming weeks to ensure we are taking every necessary step and precaution possible.” Upton also said the House Energy and Commerce Committee plans to hold a hearing on the issue in the next several weeks. Committee members have been receiving regular, bipartisan briefings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In addition, committee leaders have sent a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia Burwell seeking more information about the outbreak of Ebola and asking for information on how prepared the United States is battle the disease. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141003000047/http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397409 The Blaze: The Government Doesnt Need to Charge You With a Crime to Seize Your Assets and Property 2014-09-30 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 web.archive.org     legacy Did you know you don’t actually need to be charged with a crime for the government to seize your financial and property assets? Under U.S. law, it can take only the suspicion of a crime to turn lives upside down and seize the property of innocent citizens. The civil asset forfeiture law allows government agencies like the IRS or the Department of Justice to confiscate anyone’s property without obtaining criminal charges against them. Originally intended to seize the assets of money launderers and drug dealers, the law’s low requirement threshold has allowed government agencies to incorrectly identify someone as a possible suspect in a crime take their assets. It can take more than a year for an innocent person who has had their business, property or finances seized to be cleared of wrongdoing, during which time they can lose everything, said Rep. Tim Walberg (R-Mich.), who is working to reform the law. Walberg has introduced the Civil Asset Forfeiture Reform Act, which would require the government to show proof that an individual was involved in criminal wrongdoing before it can seize property. Currently before the House Judiciary Committee, the legislation has several cosponsors but may have difficulty passing both the House and Senate. Wednesday’s new episode of TheBlaze TV’s For the Record, “Seized,” will reveal how thousands of people have become innocent victims of the government’s forfeiture law and what they are doing to fight back. “This has a tremendous negative impact on our freedoms and the ability to carry on our government the way it’s been established according to the Constitution,” Walberg said. “That’s not what government should be, in the place of being a fearmonger, a producer of fear in the peoples’ lives and ultimately, using their power to extract resources for their own benefit.” David B. Smith, an asset forfeiture attorney  based in Alexandria, Virginia, just outside the nation’s capital, told TheBlaze that many small-business owners become targets of the government because they don’t have … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397385 Huizenga Leads Bipartisan Call For Regulatory Transparency 2014-09-29 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) and Congressman Gregory Meeks (D-NY) along with U.S. Senators Dean Heller (R-NV) and Jon Tester (D-MT) issued the following statements after joining to introduce a bipartisan and bicameral resolution in both the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate to promote an open and transparent process with regard to the recent proposal introduced by the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS) to prohibit public observers from their meetings:   “Openness and transparency are vital to ensuring that regulators take into account the impact of their decisions on consumers. The International Association of Insurance Supervisors’ (IAIS) suggestion to close its meetings to consumers and impacted industries is a very large step in the wrong direction. I am glad to see bipartisan and bicameral support in rejecting the idea of another group of bureaucrats attempting to shut the American people out of the regulatory process,” said Congressman Huizenga.  “International collaboration is essential in reaching cross border standards to safeguard against systemic risks in our global insurance markets. I therefore welcome IAIS continued efforts in seeking harmonized global standards, which should be adopted with the greatest level of transparency. The process should be inclusive and open to key stakeholders, including industry groups to ensure that adopted standards have been fully deliberated and understood by all parties,” added Congressman Meeks.  “The IAIS must have an open and transparent process for the public to view. Holding working groups and other meetings in secrecy only discredit the decisions made by IAIS. It is critical for IAIS to have an open process to ensure input from policymakers and participants around the globe,” said Senator Heller. “Transparency is key to good, responsible government,” Tester said. “Whether in Montana, the U.S. Congress, or internationally, transparency holds folks accountable to those they serve. This resolut… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140926005330/http://amash.house.gov/press-release/national-business-free-market-groups-give-awards-amash National business, free market groups give awards to Amash 2014-09-25 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Justin Amash A000367 web.archive.org     legacy FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                         September 25, 2014   CONTACT Will Adams (202) 225-3849 will.adams@mail.house.gov   National business, free market groups give awards to Amash Amash scores trio of accolades from leading economic advocates WASHINGTON, D.C. – Three national business and free market groups in the past week gave awards to Rep. Justin Amash (R-Mich.) for his record on economic issues. The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) gave Amash its “Guardian of Small Business” award for his support of tax relief and domestic energy production and combatting Obamacare. The NFIB represents 350,000 small and independent business owners in the United States. “The record shows that Rep. Amash is a true champion of small business, supporting the votes that matter in the 113th Congress,” said NFIB President and CEO Dan Danner. “This award reflects our members’ appreciation for supporting the NFIB pro-growth agenda for small business.” The National Taxpayers Union (NTU) similarly gave Amash their “Taxpayers’ Friend” award for 2013. Amash scored second-highest on NTU’s scorecard in the entire House. NTU rates congressmen on every vote concerning taxes, spending, and debt. NTU is one of the oldest taxpayer organizations, and it advocates for “tax relief and reform, lower and less wasteful [government] spending, individual liberty, and free enterprise.” “With so many remaining doubts that our economy has completely turned a corner, it’s never been more important for Washington to change direction on fiscal policy,” NTU President Pete Sepp said. “Fortunately, the taxpayers of Michigan’s Third District could count on Rep. Amash to help put our nation on a saner path. Day in and day out, Rep. Amash earned the title of ‘Taxpayers’ Friend.’” Finally, the Competitive Enterprise Institute (CEI) gave Amash its “Champion of the Worker” award for a “perfect voting record[] on key employment and workforce issues” in this Congress. Referring to the 28 House members who won th… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/tim-walberg-honored-guardian-small-business-nfib Tim Walberg Honored as Guardian of Small Business by NFIB 2014-09-22 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Walberg was named a "Guardian of Small Business" by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) for his voting record on behalf of America's small-business owners in the 113th Congress. NFIB President and CEO Dan Danner praised Rep. Walberg for "standing up for small business." In presenting the group's coveted Guardian of Small Business Award, Danner said, "Small-business owners are very politically active paying close attention to how their lawmakers vote on key business issues and stand by those who stand for them." "The record shows that Rep.Walberg is a true champion of small business, supporting the votes that matter in the 113th Congress," said Danner. "This award reflects our members' appreciation for supporting the NFIB pro-growth agenda for small business. Rep. Walberg released the following statement after receiving the award: "With small businesses creating and employing more than 50 percent of the workforce, I am honored to be recognized with an award that champions their success. I will continue to support efforts which create jobs and give small businesses the tools they need to grow and expand." NFIB's "How Congress Voted," which serves as a report card for members of Congress, was also unveiled this week. The report presents key small-business votes and voting percentages for each lawmaker. Those voting favorably on key small-business issues at least 70 percent of the time during the 113th Congress are eligible for the Guardian award. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140922190511/http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394260 Tim Walberg Honored as Guardian of Small Business by NFIB 2014-09-22 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 web.archive.org     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.– Rep. Walberg was named a “Guardian of Small Business” by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) for his voting record on behalf of America’s small-business owners in the 113th Congress. NFIB President and CEO Dan Danner praised Rep. Walberg for “standing up for small business.” In presenting the group’s coveted Guardian of Small Business Award, Danner said, “Small-business owners are very politically active – paying close attention to how their lawmakers vote on key business issues and stand by those who stand for them.” “The record shows that Rep.Walberg is a true champion of small business, supporting the votes that matter in the 113th Congress,” said Danner. “This award reflects our members’ appreciation for supporting the NFIB pro-growth agenda for small business.  Rep. Walberg released the following statement after receiving the award: “With small businesses creating and employing more than 50 percent of the workforce, I am honored to be recognized with an award that champions their success. I will continue to support efforts which create jobs and give small businesses the tools they need to grow and expand.” NFIB’s “How Congress Voted,” which serves as a report card for members of Congress, was also unveiled this week. The report presents key small-business votes and voting percentages for each lawmaker. Those voting favorably on key small-business issues at least 70 percent of the time during the 113th Congress are eligible for the Guardian award. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140924061625/http://amash.house.gov/press-release/amash-host-town-halls-grand-rapids-and-battle-creek Amash to host town halls in Grand Rapids and Battle Creek 2014-09-22 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Justin Amash A000367 web.archive.org     legacy FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 22, 2014   CONTACT Jordan Bush (616) 451-8383 jordan.bush@mail.house.gov   Amash to host town halls in Grand Rapids and Battle Creek GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Rep. Justin Amash (R-Mich.) announced town hall meetings in Grand Rapids and Battle Creek. The town halls are open to the public. WHAT: Town Hall Meeting               WHEN: Wednesday, September 24, 2014 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.   WHERE: Board of Commissioners Chambers Kent County Building, 3rd Floor 300 Monroe Ave. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503 __________________________________________________________ WHAT: Town Hall Meeting   WHEN: Thursday, September 25, 2014 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.   WHERE: Battle Creek City Hall 10 N. Division St. Battle Creek, MI 49014 ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394307 THE DENVER POST: A (political) breakthrough on biomedical research 2014-09-20 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy ​For those who have despaired of the two parties in Congress working together on behalf of important goals, brace yourselves for some good news: A powerful House Republican and Colorado's own Democratic Rep. Diana DeGette are joining in an ambitious effort to restructure funding and regulations around biomedical research to foster innovation and life-saving products. It's an important collaboration called 21st Century Cures. Not only could it accelerate biomedical breakthroughs, it could also ensure the United States retains its lead as the center of innovation — a lead that has eroded in recent years.  | The chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, Fred Upton of Michigan, and DeGette have spent the past few months seeking advice from a broad spectrum of experts associated with biomedical research, from scientists to regulators to investors. And they intend to draft a bill by year's end to introduce in the next Congress.   "We've discovered there is quite a bit of consensus" on what to do, DeGette told us. And that consensus includes those running government agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) — meaning they won't stand in the way.   DeGette points to several problems that need attention:   • Reliable funding. Although funding for NIH was doubled in 2001, it has lost 25 percent of its buying power since because of budget freezes and cuts.   • The obsolete structure of the federal agencies, which slows down approvals. As a result, a 21st Century white paper explains, "the timelines, size, failure rates, and costs of conducting trials [for new therapies] are at all-time highs, with administrative and regulatory burdens often contributing to such increases." Indeed, the cost of developing a new drug now exceeds $1 billion.  • Lack of a centralized registry for those engaged in biomedical research. "If you had a registry — with informed consent for patients — then you could have one pipeline to get those big studies done," DeGette said. Large-scale gen… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394121 Huizenga Named Guardian of Small Business By NFIB 2014-09-19 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy This week, Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02) was named a Guardian of Small Business by the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) based on his record of supporting pro-growth policies that increase job creation and support small business expansion. After receiving the award, Congressman Huizenga released the following statement: “I am honored to be recognized by the National Federation of Independent Businesses as a Guardian of Small Business,” said Huizenga. “As a small business owner myself, I understand how tax and regulatory policies crafted in Washington directly impact job creators and economic growth across West Michigan. Because of their unique ability to adapt and innovate, small business entrepreneurs will continue to be a driving force in growing Michigan’s economy and boosting job creation.” "The record shows that Congressman Huizenga is a true champion of small business, supporting the votes that matter in the 113th Congress,” said NFIB President and CEO Dan Danner. “This award reflects our members’ appreciation for supporting the NFIB pro-growth agenda for small business.” NFIB’s “How Congress Voted,” which serves as a report card for members of Congress, was also unveiled this week. The report presents key small-business votes and voting percentages for each lawmaker. Those voting favorably on key small-business issues at least 70 percent of the time during the 113th Congress are eligible for the Guardian award. This is the second consecutive Guardian of Small Business Award for Congressman Huizenga. He has received a perfect score of 100 percent both times he has received the award. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394071 Huizenga Small Business Legislation Included in House Passed Jobs Package 2014-09-18 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Huizenga Small Business Legislation Included in House Passed Jobs Package f t # e Washington, September 18, 2014 Tonight, the House passed H.R. 4 – the Jobs for America Act – a package of 15 bills designed to strengthen the economy.  Included in the jobs package was H.R. 2274 authored by Congressman Huizenga. H.R. 2274 removes regulatory roadblocks surrounding the sale and transfer of small and mid-sized businesses.  The House jobs package passed by a vote of 253 to 163.  After the vote, Congressman Huizenga released the following statement: “It has been estimated that approximately $10 trillion of privately owned, small, and family-run businesses will be sold or closed in the coming years as baby boomers retire,” said Huizenga.  “Closure of these small businesses will cost countless jobs across the nation and impact communities from Ludington to Kentwood here in West Michigan. By reducing overly burdensome regulations on business brokerage services, we can create an environment where these small businesses are smoothly transferred to the next generation of entrepreneurs.  H.R. 2274 helps preserve small business jobs currently in existence while fostering opportunity for future economic expansion and job creation.” In addition to Congressman Huizenga’s legislation, H.R. 4 included the following jobs bills:  H.R. 2575, the Save American Workers Act, authored by Representative Todd Young, which repeals Obamacare’s 30-hour definition of full-time employment; H.R. 899, the Unfunded Mandates Information and Transparency Act, authored by Representative Virginia Foxx, which equips Congress and the public with tools to determine the true costs of regulations; H.R. 2804, the Achieving Less Excess in Regulation and Requiring Transparency (ALERRT) Act, authored by Representative George Holding, Chai… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394009 Upton recognizes Jasmnika Newbern of Benton Harbor on being honored as Midwest Youth of the Year 2014-09-18 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy Congressman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, had the honor of introducing Jasmnika Newbern of Benton Harbor, Mich., at the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Congressional Breakfast today in the nation's capital where she recognized as “Midwest Youth of the Year.” The Benton Harbor High School graduate is the first member of her family to attend college and is now a freshman at Michigan State University where she plans to study criminal justice. Newbern was named “Michigan Youth of the Year” this spring and went on to excel at the regional competition in Chicago. As a student in Benton Harbor, Newbern helped lead an anti-bullying campaign and organized a student-led peace rally and walk against teen violence and bullying. “Jasmnika is an intelligent, determined, and inspirational young woman who has shown how one individual – even in high school – can make a real difference in their community,” said Upton, who also met with Newbern yesterday in his Washington office. “Her experience is such a powerful testament to the important role organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of Benton Harbor play in communities across the country.” Click here to watch Jasmnika Newbern’s acceptance speech 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=394062 Walberg Votes for Bills to Reduce Energy Costs & Promote Job Creation 2014-09-18 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Press Releases Stay up-to-date on Rep. Walberg’s work on behalf of Michigan's 7th District.   Press Kit Members of the media can view Rep. Walberg’s biography and download an official picture.   Tim in the News Find the latest articles about Rep. Walberg from local and national papers.   Opinion Editorial Read the latest opinion editorials authored by Rep. Walberg.   Latest Videos Videos of Rep. Walberg from the House floor and committees.   Social Media Follow Rep. Walberg on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.   e-Newsletter Archive Stay up-to-date on Rep. Walberg’s work in D.C. and in Michigan through the e-newsletter. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-votes-bills-reduce-energy-costs-promote-job-creation Walberg Votes for Bills to Reduce Energy Costs & Promote Job Creation 2014-09-18 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, Rep. Walberg voted in favor of H.R. 2, the American Energy Solutions for Lower Costs and More American Jobs Act, and H.R. 4, the Jobs for America Act. H.R. 2 is a comprehensive package of energy bills already passed by the House and awaiting a Senate vote that would expand energy production and lower energy costs. H.R. 4 is a single jobs package of bills that includes legislation to reduce federal regulations, lower taxes and equip job-creators with the tools they need to succeed. "American families and American businesses are struggling under excessive federal regulations, high energy costs and burdensome taxes. We can't afford to wait any longer to address these issues. I'm proud to support these pieces of legislation that reaffirm our commitment to an all-of-the-above' energy strategy and creating jobs for a healthy economy," said Rep. Walberg following the vote. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393723 Huizenga Legislation To Help Low & Moderate Income Families Sent To Senate 2014-09-17 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy Last night, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 5461 containing several provisions to reform Dodd-Frank including, the Mortgage Choice Act, legislation first introduced by Congressman Huizenga to help low and moderate income Americans attain a qualified mortgage.  Congressman Huizenga released the following statement after H.R. 5461 passed with strong bipartisan support by a vote of 327 to 97: "This legislation will help low and middle income borrowers as well as prospective first-time homeowners realize a portion of the American Dream,” said Huizenga. “Hard-working families across the nation should not be denied access to a qualified mortgage because of technicalities that are largely out of their control. H.R. 5461 represents a positive, bipartisan step forward to make sure West Michigan residents can attain mortgages for their first home; Michigan farmers can access the financing they need to buy tractors and work their land; and Americans across the nation can buy insurance policies without severe premium increases.” On Monday, Congressman Huizenga spoke on the House floor during the debate on H.R. 5461.  A video and transcript of Rep. Huizenga’s remarks are available below. < Rep. Huizenga: Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight in support of H.R. 5461, a bill authored by Mr. Barr, my colleague on the Financial Services Committee, and cosponsored by Mr. Miller from California and myself. This bill contains four titles. Three of which have already passed this House with overwhelming or unanimous support, and one that passed with only a dozen ‘no’ votes. Mr. Speaker, it is rare that the Senate sends us meaningful legislation, and it is even rarer when they send us legislation that fixes the Dodd-Frank Act. As we on the Financial Services Committee have seen in our hearings and markups, our friends on the other side of the aisle and the other side of the Capitol, usually defend Dodd-Frank to the hilt - bestowing upon it the kind of deference normally reserved for sacred texts handed down from the Heavens. We… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393922 Upton supports bipartisan measure to fund government, authorize action against ISIS 2014-09-17 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy Congressman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, voted today for a stopgap measure (H.J.Res.124) to prevent a government shutdown and keep federal agencies operating under current FY 2014 rates until mid December. The short-term funding bill passed the House of Representatives by a bipartisan vote of 319 to 108 and now awaits action in the Senate. “This bipartisan agreement ensures our government remains operational as Congress completes its work to pass line-by-line appropriations bills for the remainder of the upcoming fiscal year. I am hopeful that the Senate will follow the House’s lead and act without haste.” H.J.Res.124 keeps government operations at current levels into the new fiscal year, until December 11, 2014. The extension affords the House and Senate time to complete its work on full-year appropriations legislation for FY 2015. Upton also voted in favor of an amendment to the underlying funding bill that authorizes the Pentagon to train and equip vetted Syrian opposition groups in the battle against the terrorist organization ISIS. Offered by House Armed Services Committee Chairman Howard P. “Buck” McKeon, R-Calif., the amendment was adopted by a vote of 273 to 156. “Thirteen years ago, our world was shaken as we witnessed the heinous destruction of thousands of innocent lives here on U.S. soil. We saw evil, looked it in the eye and vowed never again. The threat posed by ISIS and other radical terrorist organizations is all too real and must be eradicated. The United States does not stand alone it this effort, but we have a responsibility to lead.” The McKeon amendment does not authorize use of military force. It also ensures congressional oversight and greater transparency through reporting requirements. The provision does not authorize additional funds, but requires the President to submit a reprogramming request to Congress for existing funds. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393643 Huizenga: President Obama Lied About ObamaCare Preventing Taxpayer Funded Abortion Services 2014-09-16 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Bill Huizenga H001058 huizenga.house.gov     legacy The non-partisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued a report concluding American taxpayers have subsidized abortion services for more than 1,000 insurance plans across the nation.  This report directly contradicts promises made by President Obama and pro-life congressional democrats that ObamaCare would respect longstanding bipartisan law by preventing taxpayer dollars from being used to pay for abortion on demand. Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02) released the following statement regarding ObamaCare allowing for taxpayer funded abortions: “President Obama came before Congress and promised the American people that no federal dollars would be used to fund abortions.  Today’s GAO report proves this promise, and others made in support of ObamaCare, are unequivocally false. Without this ‘Presidential Promise,’ ObamaCare would likely not have passed the House of Representatives and become the law of the land. While the State of Michigan has taken steps to prevent taxpayers from paying for abortions, it has become abundantly clear that the federal government has failed to do so.  “Earlier this year, the House passed the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act which would prevent federal dollars from funding abortion services; however the Senate has refused to act on this common sense legislation.  American taxpayers should not be forced to violate their conscience and pay for abortions. The U.S. Senate needs to immediately act to fix this problem, uphold bipartisan agreements, and protect American taxpayers.” Background: 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393680 Upton Committee Report Details Failures of Auto Safety Regulators in GM Ignition Switch Recall 2014-09-16 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy Upton: “It is tragic that the evidence was staring NHTSA in the face and the agency didn’t identify the warnings… They failed.” share: f t ​The House Energy and Commerce Committee today released a new report written by the majority staff outlining the findings of its investigation related to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) role in the delay of the General Motors (GM) ignition switch recall. The report identified a number of key failures and missed opportunities by the nation’s automobile safety regulator in analyzing and responding to data and information provided to the agency, which contributed to NHTSA’s inability to identify the safety defect. GM has recalled millions of vehicles this year for issues that have been linked to at least 19 deaths, including two teenagers from the Southwest Michigan district of Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph. Upton’s committee opened an investigation into the actions of both GM and NHTSA following the initial recall of certain Chevrolet Cobalt models due to an ignition switch defect which could cause the ignition to inadvertently move from the “run” mode and may prevent air bags from deploying in affected vehicles. The committee’s investigation, along with GM’s internal investigation conducted by Anton Valukas, revealed a series of failures by the company to identify and remedy this defect, which contributed to tragic injuries and the loss of life. But the committee’s investigation also uncovered failures and critical mistakes by NHTSA, which allowed this fatal problem to fester unresolved for over a decade.  "It is tragic that the evidence was staring NHTSA in the face and the agency didn't identify the warnings. NHTSA exists not just to process what the company finds, but to dig deeper. They failed,” said Upton. “We'll keep looking for answers, and keep working toward solutions – whether it means changing our laws or pressing for change at the companies that follow them and th… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393725 Upton makes strong case for Fort Custer to Missile Defense Agency head 2014-09-16 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy To ensure our homeland remains protected in the event of an attack, the United States must be prepared for the worst, says Congressman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, who met today with Vice Adm. James D. Syring, the current director of the Missile Defense Agency (MDA). Sitting in his Washington, DC office, Upton made a strong case for the selection of the Fort Custer Training Center of Augusta, Mich. Fort Custer is one of four locations being considered by the MDA for a potential interceptor site capable of shielding the eastern-half of the United States against threats posed by nations like Iran and North Korea. “Southwest Michigan not only has the infrastructure, resources, and leadership, we have the strong public backing to support this critical national security mission,” said Upton, who attended a public scoping meeting hosted by the MDA at the Sherman Lake YMCA in Augusta in late August. In addition to the support of the local community, Upton noted the selection of Fort Custer has the strong endorsement of Michigan Governor Rick Snyder as well as Maj. Gen. Gregory J. Vadnais, the Adjutant General who commands the Michigan Army and Air National Guard units. “Governor Snyder and I are really pleased and appreciate the incredible support from the community and Congressman Upton to construct GBI at Fort Custer, should the decision be made to move forward,” said Maj. Gen. Vadnais. Building the missile defense system would infuse more than $3 billion into Southwest Michigan’s economy, resulting in the addition of 300 new direct jobs and as many as 1,800 indirect jobs. Upton recently submitted a letter in strong support of the selection of Fort Custer as part of the official public comment period. A copy of the letter may be found here, the full text of which follows immediately below. September 12, 2014 Black & Veatch Special Projects Corp Attn: MDA CIS EIS 6601 College Boulevard Overland Park, KS 66211-1504 To Whom It May Concern: As the Department of Defense studies potential locations for an East Coast mis… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393681 Rep Walberg Welcomes Constituents to Receive Angels in Adoption Award 2014-09-16 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Press Releases Stay up-to-date on Rep. Walberg’s work on behalf of Michigan's 7th District.   Press Kit Members of the media can view Rep. Walberg’s biography and download an official picture.   Tim in the News Find the latest articles about Rep. Walberg from local and national papers.   Opinion Editorial Read the latest opinion editorials authored by Rep. Walberg.   Latest Videos Videos of Rep. Walberg from the House floor and committees.   Social Media Follow Rep. Walberg on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.   e-Newsletter Archive Stay up-to-date on Rep. Walberg’s work in D.C. and in Michigan through the e-newsletter. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393719 Walberg Votes to Assist Veterans 2014-09-16 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Press Releases Stay up-to-date on Rep. Walberg’s work on behalf of Michigan's 7th District.   Press Kit Members of the media can view Rep. Walberg’s biography and download an official picture.   Tim in the News Find the latest articles about Rep. Walberg from local and national papers.   Opinion Editorial Read the latest opinion editorials authored by Rep. Walberg.   Latest Videos Videos of Rep. Walberg from the House floor and committees.   Social Media Follow Rep. Walberg on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.   e-Newsletter Archive Stay up-to-date on Rep. Walberg’s work in D.C. and in Michigan through the e-newsletter. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393721 House Passes Walberg Legislation To Bring Greater Accountability & Transparency to Government 2014-09-16 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Press Releases Stay up-to-date on Rep. Walberg’s work on behalf of Michigan's 7th District.   Press Kit Members of the media can view Rep. Walberg’s biography and download an official picture.   Tim in the News Find the latest articles about Rep. Walberg from local and national papers.   Opinion Editorial Read the latest opinion editorials authored by Rep. Walberg.   Latest Videos Videos of Rep. Walberg from the House floor and committees.   Social Media Follow Rep. Walberg on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.   e-Newsletter Archive Stay up-to-date on Rep. Walberg’s work in D.C. and in Michigan through the e-newsletter. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-walberg-legislation-bring-greater-accountability-transparency House Passes Walberg Legislation To Bring Greater Accountability & Transparency to Government 2014-09-16 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, the House passed in H.R. 5169, the Senior Executive Service Accountability Act, legislation Rep. Walberg authored to provide greater transparency and accountability within the Senior Executive Service (SES). The Senior Executive Service is comprised of senior level employees in managerial supervisory, and policy positions in the Executive Branch of the Federal Government. H.R.5169 would make Senior Executive Service employees subject to the same employment standards as other civil service personnel. It would streamline the process for removing members of the SES for misconduct, subject SES employees to many of the same rules for the employees they supervise, and would limit the amount of time an agency has to complete adverse action proceeding for senior leaders engaged in misconduct. "From the IRS to the VA, the American people have lost trust in the federal government to do the right thing. In many cases, these scandals have been spearheaded or continued by senior executive employees. My bill raises the level of accountability when misconduct occurs and provide greater assurances to the American taxpayer that Washington is being good stewards of their hard-earned dollars," said Rep. Walberg following the vote. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-walberg-welcomes-constituents-receive-angels-adoption-award Rep Walberg Welcomes Constituents to Receive Angels in Adoption Award 2014-09-16 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Rep. Tim Walberg is proud to announce that Dick and Cathy Caskey from North Adams have been named Angels in Adoption recipients through the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI).The Caskeys have five biological children and have given 16 adopted children a loving home. "The Angels in Adoption award could not go to a more deserving couple. Dick and Cathy Caskey feel every child deserves to be in a home where he or she is cherished and have opened their hearts to special needs children over the years that have been challenged with blindness, epilepsy, autism, cerebral palsy and other difficulties. They are truly an inspiration," said Rep. Walberg. The Angels in Adoption program was established in 1999 and is a public awareness campaign and provides an opportunity for all members of the U.S. Congress to honor the good work of their constituents who have enriched the lives of foster children and orphans in the United States and abroad. The Caskeys were honored at the annual CCAI awards ceremony on September 16 in Washington, D.C. with hundreds of other recipients from around the country. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-supports-bipartisan-child-care-development-block-grant-reforms Walberg Supports Bipartisan Child Care & Development Block Grant Reforms 2014-09-16 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C.- Today, Rep. Walberg helped pass a bipartisan, bicameral agreement to reauthorize the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) program. The CCDBG program has not been reauthorized since 1996 andS. 1086,the Child Care and Development Block Grant Actmodernizes the CCDBG program and implementsreformswhichenhance parental choice, strengthen child safety and promote better care for our kids. "This program is important inhelpingmanyworking families balance the demands of their jobs and caring for their kids.I applaud the bipartisan work on the bill while still maintaining the program's essential purpose with increased state flexibility and parental choice,"commented Rep. Walberg after the vote. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-votes-assist-veterans Walberg Votes to Assist Veterans 2014-09-16 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 walberg.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, Rep. Walberg voted for a package of bills to help our nation's veterans. Among the bills passed with bipartisan support are measures to rein in out-of-control costs of three major Veterans Affairs projects, provide for a cost-of-living increase for certain disabled veterans and their dependents, and extend a number of important programs which help female veterans and homeless veterans. "I remain committed to assisting our nation's veterans and ensuring they have access to the benefits they deserve. Today's legislation illustrates the House's continued commitment to delivering on these promises while also rooting out waste and abuse within the VA," said Rep. Walberg following the votes. Background on bills: H.R. 3593The VA Construction Assistance Act would implement reforms to expedite construction and rein in the out-of-control costs of three major VA regional projects under development H.R. 5404- Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act would extend a number of programs benefitting female veterans, homeless veterans and student veterans and other authorities given to the VA pertaining to health care, housing and transportation H.R. 4276- Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Improvement Act would require the VA to submit detailed quarterly reports to the Congress regarding the pilot program for rehabilitative services for veterans with traumatic brain injury S. 2258- Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act would provide for an increase in the rates of compensation of veterans with service connected disabilities and rates of dependency and indemnity compensation or the survivors of certain disabled veterans 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140918224859/http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393786 Government Executives: House Approves Bill To Make It Easier to Fire Senior Executives 2014-09-16 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 web.archive.org     legacy The House on Tuesday passed legislation that would make it easier to discipline and fire senior executives across the federal government. The Senior Executive Service Accountability Act (H.R. 5169) would make the federal government’s top career officials eligible for one- to 14-day suspensions without pay, and expand the criteria that could be used to justify firing them. Currently, members of the SES can only be suspended for more than 14 days, or fired. Those who are suspended continue to receive pay, must receive 30 days’ advance notice of a proposed suspension, have the right to reply, and the right to appeal to the Merit Systems Protection Board. Agencies can issue a reprimand in lieu of a suspension for lesser offenses. The new provision allowing for shorter suspensions gives supervisors more flexibility in disciplining senior executives. Opponents of the bill, however, believe it could lead to politically-motivated suspensions. The final bill also includes a provision that would require SES employees put on administrative leave during the investigation and ultimately fired if the Merit Systems Protection Board sides with the agency, to pay back their salary and accrued annual leave for that period of time to the agency. In addition, the legislation would get rid of a provision in the current law which allows SES employees removed for performance and placed in a General Schedule job from retaining their SES salary.  The House passed H.R. 5169 under a suspension of the rules on Tuesday night. H.R. 5169 would extend the initial probationary period for SES employees from one to two years. Many of the procedural hurdles that prevent agencies from immediately firing senior executives do not apply when the employees are in their probationary periods. H.R. 5169 also requires agencies to provide a written justification for each of their SES positions every two years, and give employees a written description of their job performance requirements 30 days before each evaluation period. Senior executives now can be fir… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140918225026/http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393606 Walberg Supports Bipartisan Child Care & Development Block Grant Reforms 2014-09-15 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 web.archive.org     legacy Walberg Supports Bipartisan Child Care & Development Block Grant Reforms f t # e Washington, Sep 15 Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. Walberg helped pass a bipartisan, bicameral agreement to reauthorize the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) program. The CCDBG program has not been reauthorized since 1996 and S. 1086, the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act modernizes the CCDBG program and implements reforms which enhance parental choice, strengthen child safety and promote better care for our kids. “This program is important in  helping many working families balance the demands of their jobs and caring for their kids.  I applaud the bipartisan work on the bill while still maintaining the program’s essential purpose with increased state flexibility and parental choice,” commented Rep. Walberg after the vote. f t # e 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393342 Upton roundtable hears from MPIs William Parfet, national health leaders 2014-09-12 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy The House Energy and Commerce Committee heard this week from an all-star panel of leaders in the health industry as part of the committee’s bipartisan 21st Century Cures initiative. Launched this spring by Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, 21st Century Cures is taking the first-ever comprehensive look at how treatments are discovered, developed, and delivered here in the United States. By listening to experts from around the country, Upton can help determine how to best accelerate that process. By making sure federal policy keeps pace with advances in science and technology, we can get life-saving therapies and cures to patients faster while also keeping America the medical innovation capital of the world.“The 21st Century Cures initiative affects every American as they, their families, or their friends have been affected by disease,” began Upton. Among those sharing their expertise with lawmakers was the head of Mattawan, Mich.-based scientific research company MPI Research. William Parfet spoke about the need for collaboration between innovators in the private sector and government regulators to advance technologies and treatments at greater speeds and reduced costs. “It’s so hard for regulations to keep pace. It’s so hard for regulations to really help allow for new innovative methods to be tested and used,” said Parfet, who is chairman and chief executive officer of the privately held firm. Parfet was joined on the impressive panel by the Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Burwell; National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Francis Collins; Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Margaret Hamburg; philanthropist Michael Milken; renowned inventor Dean Kamen; and Dr. Dan Theodorescu, director of the University of Colorado Cancer Center. “This really has been a collaborative effort, and we need everyone to continue providing us with specific ideas – none too big, none too small – about how we can make a significant reduction in the time and costs associated with the discovery, dev… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140918225030/http://walberg.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393251 Forbes: After Cops Seized and Kept Cash, Washington, D.C. Settles Almost Million-Dollar Forfeiture Class Action 2014-09-12 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Tim Walberg W000798 web.archive.org     legacy Under D.C. law, after receiving a notice that their property has been seized and is subject to forfeiture, owners have 30 days to file a claim to try to get their property back. Meanwhile, the city has one year to file a civil forfeiture action. Purportedly, these procedures were not followed with Hardy or the thousands of people he represents as a class. In 2009, the Evidence Control Branch of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) sent out 3,000 asset forfeiture notices. But 2,000 of them were returned to the division unsigned. The Branch’s manager even testified that they usually did not search for other addresses to mail the returned forfeiture notices. Arguing that the District’s forfeiture policy infringed their Fifth Amendment right to due process, Hardy, along with Donnell Monts, who had $823 taken after his arrest in 2006, filed a class action in 2009. Five years later, the two men will each receive $2,500 as part of the settlement. Altogether, the nearly 1,400 claimants in the class action lost almost $700,000 to forfeiture, so the settlement will restore roughly three-quarters of what was taken from them. Yet the claimants represent just 14 percent of those affected by this particular D.C. forfeiture policy. Over a six-year period, the Metropolitan Police Department seized a staggering $2.9 million from these owners collectively. Among the owners represented in the lawsuit, the median amount of cash seized was a mere $120. In fact, the MPD seized as little as $1 from some owners. There is little indication trivial amounts of money can be plausibly tied to the drug trade, noted Sean Day, who was co-counsel on the class action. Nor is Washington, D.C. an outlier in using civil forfeiture to seize small sums of cash. Research by the Institute for Justice challenges the notion, frequently perpetuated by law enforcement, that civil forfeiture is primarily wielded against sprawling criminal enterprises. In Minnesota, the average value of forfeited property was $1,250, while in Georgia half of the property … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393191 We will #NeverForget 2014-09-11 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy Thirteen years ago this morning, our nation was shaken as nearly three thousand innocent men, women, and children lost their lives in the September 11th terrorist attacks. We will never forget the horrific events of that fateful day, nor will we forget those lives lost and the countless loved ones they abruptly left behind. This Patriot Day, flags across the country will be displayed at half-staff as we remember the thousands of innocents tragically lost and honor those heroes who bravely answered the call to duty when their fellow Americans needed them. We also keep in mind those who have continued to work around the clock to keep our nation safe and secure from future terrorist attacks – from our local emergency responders to the members of our Armed Forces. They put their lives on the line and take risks every day for us – we owe them and their families a tremendous debt of gratitude. The world as we knew it was forever changed that morning through the acts of violent extremism. The brutal destruction, heartbreak, and bloodshed that most of us only recognized from overseas news reports, history books, or the movies became a reality upon our shores. Ongoing instability in the Middle East and elsewhere reminds us that those who would use terror and violence against others to achieve their goals still exist. The terrorist organization ISIS poses a very serious and credible threat to the world and here at home. There is no question that we must destroy that radical threat before its terrors reach our shores. The United States should be part of a broad coalition of forces to get that job done, and I look forward to hearing the specific details of such a strategy in the days ahead. We live in a much different world today than we did before the terrorist attacks of September 11th. While much has changed, our American values and resolve remain strong. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://upton.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393105 Upton responds to Presidents remarks on ISIS terrorist threat 2014-09-10 2014 2014-09 Republican House MI Fred Upton U000031 upton.house.gov     legacy Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, issued the following statement in response to President Obama’s evening address to the nation on countering the terrorist organization ISIS. Upton joined fellow House Republican leaders earlier today for an hour-long closed-door briefing on ISIS and the evolving situations in Iraq and Syria. “ISIS poses a very serious and credible threat to the world and here at home. There is no question that we must destroy that radical threat before its terrors reach our shores. The United States should be part of a broad coalition of forces to get that job done, and I look forward to hearing the specific details of such a strategy in the days ahead.” 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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