LANSING – State Representative Steven Lindberg (D-Marquette) last week was named to the House Education Committee and the Energy & Technology Committee for the 94th Legislature, which is making job creation, reducing the cost of health care and expanding educational opportunities its top priorities.
"After spending more than 30 years as a teacher, I know firsthand the importance of a quality education," Lindberg said. "By investing in Michigan's youth, we are investing in our state's future. If we teach our children well, we will ensure that Michigan's economy will thrive with the next generation."
Lindberg and House Democrats' priorities include:
· Creating and protecting good-paying jobs.
· Fighting the skyrocketing cost of health care.
· Strengthening schools and opening the doors of educational opportunities for all citizens.
· Addressing Michigan's energy needs.
· Protecting Michigan's Great Lakes, and fighting Canadian and out-of-state trash.
· Strengthening consumer protections.
· Restoring integrity to the House by beefing up ethics standards.
Lindberg also is a strong proponent of encouraging the use of alternative fuels, such as biodiesel and ethanol. Biodiesel is made from soybeans and ethanol is made from corn – two crops that are grown in Michigan and are important to the state's economy.
"The increased use of alternative fuels such as biodiesel and ethanol will help lower costs for consumers while protecting our land, air and water," Lindberg said. "They will help Michigan become less reliant on foreign oil, keep gas prices low and create jobs. These fuels of the future are a key part of an energy policy that will make Michigan a leader in the global economy."
Lindberg also was named to the Labor Committee and the Tourism, Outdoor Recreation and Natural Resources Committee.