As you know, committees play an important role in the legislative process. They are the first to consider and amend legislation before it reaches the House floor and are often the front lines of discussion, debate, and analysis.

I am excited to announce that I have recently been appointed to serve as vice chair of the House Education Committee and selected to serve on the Elections and Ethics, Insurance, and Local Government and Municipal Finance Committees.

These committees not only play to my strengths, but also match some of my policy priorities for the upcoming term. Priorities that were developed by listening to you.

As a public-school educator, I recognize the need for allowing teachers the flexibility to be innovative in their classrooms. In fact, as vice chair of the Education Committee, I hope to hear directly from local teachers about the positive teaching methods that have worked for them. I also hope to implement reforms that give students greater access to Career and Technical Education and the ability to explore a wider array of potential career opportunities. Investing in the lives of our young people through education is important and I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues to find solutions for improving learner success.

I am pleased to be placed on the House Insurance Committee, because the issue I’ve heard most about this past year has been the need for auto insurance reform. Hopefully our work on this committee can help deliver the meaningful rate relief Michigan drivers deserve.

Helping protect the integrity and security of our elections through my appointment to the Elections and Ethics Committee and using my role on the Local Government and Municipal Finance Committee to work with local leaders to draft public policy that directly benefits residents is also something I am excited to be a part of.

I am working to build a better Michigan, and am confident my committee assignments will play an important part in that effort. No matter what, I will make sure your voice is heard when important issues come before us.

Residents can contact my office with any state or local issues by calling (517) 373-1796, by emailing bradpaquette@house.mi.gov, or by visiting my website at reppaquette.com.

As always, it is an honor to serve you.