Dingell, Debbie RSS Articles

Dingell Releases Latest Response from U-M Regarding Los Alamos

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) is continuing to demand greater transparency on behalf of her constituents in Ypsilanti Township as it relates to the proposed University of Michigan (U-M) Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) research computing center at the Textile Road site.

Congresswoman Dingell sent a follow-up letter to U-M requesting a full public disclosure of the underlying agreement and details regarding federal resources between U-M and LANL. While she is still requesting a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), this response confirms no federal dollars have been committed to this project. As promised, she is releasing the latest response to her September 2026 inquiry.

In September 2026, Congresswoman Dingell expressed opposition to the proposed Los Alamos research computing center at the Textile Road site in Ypsilanti Township. The congresswoman also requested the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to conduct a formal review of the environmental status of the Textile Road site in Ypsilanti Township. This month, Congresswoman Dingell announced she is drafting a federal data center “Bill of Rights” and is seeking input on a proposed framework to ensure communities have a meaningful voice in decisions surrounding large-scale data center projects.

A copy of the responses can be found HERE.

Dingell, Colleagues Express Concern Over Workplace Safety at Pontiac USPS Facility

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), and Haley Stevens (D-MI-11) are expressing concerns about workplace safety at the United States Postal Service (USPS) Michigan Metroplex P&DC in Pontiac, Michigan and across other Southeast Michigan USPS Facilities. Since May 2026, employees have raised safety concerns and offered solutions to management, but to date employees report that nothing has been done to rectify the situation.

“On September 1, 2026, a non-maintenance supervisor at the facility used a maintenance bypass code, which is supposed to be known and handled by mechanics only, to start a bundle sorting machine that was placed in maintenance mode and shut down for repairs. However, a maintenance employee was inside the machine when the non-maintenance supervisor attempted to start it, which could have resulted in major injury or death. Fortunately, the machine was shut down before it could activate,” the lawmakers wrote.

The lawmakers continued: “According to employees at the facility, staff have been raising this safety concern since May 2026, indicating reoccurring negligence of this issue. Employees have brought both complaints and solutions before management, although nothing has been done to rectify the situation. It is concerning that requests for proper safety protocol have been largely neglected, especially after the death of Mr. Nicholas Acker, who was found in a similar mail handling machine at the USPS Detroit Network Distribution Center (NDC) in Allen Park, Michigan. This is unacceptable, and employees should have the confidence that they are protected on the job. USPS has the responsibility to enforce proper safety protocols and standards.”

In a letter to Postmaster General David Steiner, the lawmakers noted that the USPS has a responsibility to ensure that employees are safe and protected on the job.

A copy of the letter can be found HERE and below:

Dear Postmaster General Steiner:

This letter is regarding workplace safety concerns at the United States Postal Service (USPS) Michigan Metroplex P&DC in Pontiac, Michigan. We are concerned by the reports of unsafe practices at this facility and across Southeast Michigan.

On September 1, 2026, a non-maintenance supervisor at the facility used a maintenance bypass code, which is supposed to be known and handled by mechanics only, to start a bundle sorting machine that was placed in maintenance mode and shut down for repairs. However, a maintenance employee was inside the machine when the non-maintenance supervisor attempted to start it, which could have resulted in major injury or death. Fortunately, the machine was shut down before it could activate.

According to employees at the facility, staff have been raising this safety concern since May 2026, indicating reoccurring negligence of this issue. Employees have brought both complaints and solutions before management, although nothing has been done to rectify the situation. It is concerning that requests for proper safety protocol have been largely neglected, especially after the death of Mr. Nicholas Acker, who was found in a similar mail handling machine at the USPS Detroit Network Distribution Center (NDC) in Allen Park, Michigan. This is unacceptable, and employees should have the confidence that they are protected on the job. USPS has the responsibility to enforce proper safety protocols and standards.

Given the USPS’s role in ensuring worker safety, we request clarification on this matter and written responses to the following questions:

1. Was USPS aware that a non-maintenance supervisor had knowledge of and used a maintenance bypass code on multiple occasions, which could have led to serious, life-threatening consequences?

2. What steps will USPS take to ensure that only qualified employees have access to the maintenance code?

3. Have any disciplinary actions been taken, and if not, what correctional actions will USPS pursue?

4. How often are program evaluations, service talks, safety observations, and inspections conducted at this facility, as described in the Employee and Labor Relations Manual, and how will USPS adapt the safety training and protocols to address this problem at the facility?

5. What are the appropriate procedures for employees to communicate complaints or concerns with the appropriate staff when a supervisor is involved in an unsafe practice?

6. What future actions will USPS put in place to ensure a similar situation does not recur?

Ensuring worker safety remains our top priority. Thank you, and we look forward to your full and prompt response.

Dingell, Hayes Introduce Bill to Hold Schools Accountable for Mishandling Reports of Sexual Assault

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Jahana Hayes (D-CT-05) introduced the Title IX Take Responsibility Act, legislation that would hold schools accountable for mishandling reports of sexual assault and provide survivors a stronger path towards justice.

The legislation amends Title IX, a U.S. federal civil rights law passed as part of the Education Amendments of 1972 that bans sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal money. The bill would reform how schools handle sexual assault and harassment by replacing outdated legal loopholes with clear accountability.

"For far too long, outdated legal loopholes have allowed educational institutions to turn a blind eye to reports of sexual assault, leaving survivors without justice or support," said Congresswoman Dingell. "Title IX was enacted to protect students, not to shield institutions from accountability when they fail to keep campuses safe. This bill closes these gaps and ensures that every student has access to a safe learning environment free from abuse."

"One incident of sexual violence is one too many," said Congresswoman Jahana Hayes. "I am committed to protecting students, supporting survivors, and ensuring college campuses are safe learning environments for all. The Title IX Take Responsibility Act will put the responsibility on educational institutions for any mishandling of sexual assault reporting and failure to prevent further assaults. This legislation should be considered immediately, and I thank Congresswoman Dingell for partnering on this effort."

Under current Supreme Court precedents, schools can only be held liable if high-level officials had "actual notice" and reacted with "deliberate indifference," creating an incentive for institutions to turn a blind eye. This bill eliminates that defense by holding schools legally responsible if they knew or reasonably should have known about the abuse and failed to take effective action. It also expands access to justice by allowing survivors to hold schools accountable in federal court for monetary damages and legal fees.

The legislation is endorsed by Volare, Ujima, End Rape on Campus, National Alliance to End Sexual Violence (NAESV), Just Solutions, YWCA, and the National Organization for Victim Advocacy (NOVA).

“Survivors should not have to sacrifice their education because an institution failed to respond meaningfully to sexual harassment or violence. The Title IX Take Responsibility Act strengthens survivors’ ability to enforce their rights and recognizes that students should be able to access meaningful support without being required to pursue an investigation. Survivors deserve options that protect their safety, well-being, and ability to continue their education,” said Volare CEO Bridgette Stumpf.

“YWCA USA is unwavering in our pursuit of a world where all women and girls can thrive. To meet that mission, it is essential that every student can learn in an environment free from sexual violence. Sadly, we know that violence does occur. The deeply disturbing reports from Cornell University underscore that passing the Title IX Take Responsibility Act is an essential and overdue step that would hold our educational institutions more responsible for protecting students from the start and accessing swift, meaningful pathways to justice and healing,” said Kate Kasper, VP of Public Policy and Advocacy, YWCA USA.

"Schools must take sexual misconduct more seriously. We're abandoning survivors and ignoring the enormous impact of sexual violence on their educational attainment, health, and quality of life. This is unacceptable. The National Alliance to End Sexual Violence applauds Representatives Dingell and Hayes for re-introducing the Title IX Take Responsibility Act. We must have more accountability," said Monika Johnson-Hostler, President & CEO, National Alliance to End Sexual Violence.

“I’m grateful to Reps. Dingell and Hayes for reintroducing the Title IX Take Responsibility Act. At moment when the Dept of Education is rolling back protections under Title IX and leaving survivors of sexual violence vulnerable, this bill would strengthen protections and where appropriate, hold institutions accountable,” said Lisalyn Jacobs, CEO of Just Solutions.

“Survivors should never have to choose between their safety and their education. The Title IX Take Responsibility Act affirms survivors’ rights to support, to make their own choices about reporting, and to seek justice when their access to education is harmed. It also gives schools clear standards that reflect what effective, survivor-centered response looks like. NOVA strongly supports this bill,” said Claire Ponder Selib, Executive Director, National Organization for Victim Advocacy.

Bill text can be found HERE.

Dingell, Whitehouse Introduce Bill to Create Alert System to Notify Survivors of Illegal Gun Purchase Attempts by Domestic Abusers

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) introduced the Domestic Violence Survivors Alerted for Emergency (SAFE) Notice Act, new legislation to establish notification systems that would alert survivors of domestic violence offenses when their abuser attempts to purchase a firearm illegally.

Loopholes in federal and state law can allow domestic violence offenders to purchase guns notwithstanding their criminal history – situations that can be life threatening for survivors. Even when offenders are unsuccessful, the fact they are trying to purchase a firearm illegally can be a warning sign for survivors. The Domestic Violence SAFE Notice Act would help keep survivors safe by setting up systems to notify domestic violence survivors when an abusive partner has obtained or is trying to obtain a firearm illegally.

“When a domestic violence survivor is rebuilding their life, safety and peace of mind are everything. We know that an abusive partner’s access to a firearm dramatically increases the risk of fatal violence. By ensuring survivors receive immediate alerts if an offender attempts to purchase a gun illegally, the Domestic Violence SAFE Notice Act empowers victims with time-sensitive information that can save lives,” said Congresswoman Dingell.

“I spent years prosecuting domestic violence cases in Rhode Island, and I know the toll it can take on survivors as they rebuild their lives. Our legislation will help ensure survivors are made aware when the government has information about an abuser’s attempt to buy a firearm, so survivors and their loved ones can make decisions in the interest of their own safety and wellbeing,” said Senator Whitehouse.

Domestic violence offenders and protective order respondents are generally prohibited under federal and many state laws from purchasing firearms. However, that prohibition does not always stop offenders from trying to purchase firearms anyway. FBI data shows that almost 160,000 gun purchases were denied from 2018 to 2023 because of the purchaser’s domestic violence background. These situations can be life threatening for people in abusive situations, especially women. An abusive partner’s access to a gun significantly increases the risk of an intimate partner homicide.

The bicameral Domestic Violence SAFE Notice Act would help ensure domestic violence survivors are notified when an abusive partner is trying to obtain a firearm illegally.

Specifically, the Domestic Violence SAFE Notice Act would:

Direct the FBI to establish a notification system to alert survivors of federal domestic violence offenses when the offender attempts to purchase a firearm illegally.
- Permit survivors to register or de-register at will.
- Provide key alerts about an offender’s attempted illegal firearm purchase, including if the sale went through or law enforcement has recovered the firearm.
- Provide additional alerts about related events, such as a pardon that restores an offender’s ability to purchase firearms legally.
Authorize grants for states to pilot state-run alert systems, so survivors can receive alerts related to protective orders and non-federal domestic violence offenses.
- Enable states to use funds to expand existing systems or set up new ones.
- Require reports on the success of and challenges related to these pilot projects, including recommendations for expanding the projects to other states.

“Survivors often must make complex safety decisions in real time, and having timely information about an abusive partner’s attempt to obtain a firearm can be critical to that decision-making. The Domestic Violence SAFE Notice Act would help ensure survivors have access to information that could allow them to take additional safety precautions, seek support, and make informed decisions for themselves and their families. The Hotline is grateful to Rep. Debbie Dingell and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse for introducing this legislation and for their continued commitment to the safety and well-being of survivors of domestic violence,” said Katie Ray-Jones, Chief Executive Officer of the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

“The National District Attorneys Association is proud to support the Domestic Violence SAFE Notice Act, which establishes a common-sense notification system to alert victims when offenders unlawfully attempt to acquire a firearm as well as other firearm-related updates. NDAA commends this victim-centered approach that promotes public safety,” said Nelson Bunn, Executive Director of the National District Attorneys Association.

The Domestic Violence SAFE Notice Act has been endorsed by the National Domestic Violence Hotline, National District Attorneys Association, Association of Prosecuting Attorneys, Survivor Justice Center, Jewish Women International, National Alliance of Trauma Recovery Centers, National Advocacy Center of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd (U.S. Region), the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence, National Council of Jewish Women, Just Solutions, Futures Without Violence, Union for Reform Judaism, Ujima, National Network to End Domestic Violence, Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault, Sakhi for South Asian Survivors, National Organization for Victim Advocacy, Asian Pacific Institute on Gender-Based Violence, Lovelace Consulting Services, Inc., National Indigenous Women's Resource Center, Colorado Organization for Victim Assistance, National Crime Victim Law Institute, Yup'ik Women's Coalition, Life Span, Women of Reform Judaism, and Alliance of Tribal Coalitions to End Violence.

Bill text can be found HERE.

Dingell, Kaine Introduce Legislation to Combat Campus Sexual Assault and Support Survivors

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) introduced the Support for Universities and Colleges to Champion the Educational Success of Survivors (SUCCESS) Act and the Survivor Outreach and Support (SOS) Campus Act—bicameral legislation to prevent campus sexual assault and improve support for student survivors.

The SUCCESS Act would help improve academic outcomes for student survivors and ensure colleges and universities have the resources to support them. The Survivor Outreach and Support on Campus Act, or S.O.S. Campus Act, would require every college and university that receives federal funding to have an independent advocate dedicated to campus sexual assault prevention and response.

“Every student deserves to feel safe on their college campus and to know that if they experience sexual violence, they will be supported and taken seriously. The urgency to act has been put into sharp relief as we learn more about the horrific allegations coming out of Cornell,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “These bills will give colleges and universities more tools to prevent sexual violence, support survivors, and help ensure students can continue their education in a safe and supportive environment. No student should ever have to choose between their safety and their education.”

“Every student deserves to live and learn in a healthy and safe environment. We must do everything we can to prevent sexual assault on college campuses and provide comprehensive support to survivors,” said Senator Kaine. “I’m proud to introduce these bills to help ensure survivors can access medical care, counseling, and the academic support they need to heal and continue pursuing their educational and professional goals.”

Sexual violence can impact student survivors physically, psychologically, emotionally, and academically. Survivors may face difficulty learning and retaining information, lower grade point averages, and a greater risk of dropping out of school. College and university students deserve the ability to learn without fear of sexual violence, and higher education institutions have an obligation to do everything they can to provide a safe learning environment for their students. The legislation would help colleges and universities provide comprehensive guidance, resources, and support for survivors to make campuses a safer place to learn.

The S.O.S. Campus Act would require campuses to have an independent advocate to conduct public information campaigns on sexual assault prevention and ensure that survivors of sexual assault have access to:

Emergency and follow-up medical care,
Guidance on reporting assaults to law enforcement
Medical forensic or evidentiary exams,
Crisis intervention, ongoing counseling, and assistance throughout the process, and
Information on their legal rights.

The legislation would also require universities to consult with or partner with local rape crisis centers and other community-based organizations to ensure survivors can access the services they need.

The SUCCESS Act would provide funding for universities and colleges to:

Provide higher education re-entry assistance for student survivors of sexual assault and other forms of violence;
Increase training for faculty and administrators on patient-centered care and recognizing signs of trauma;
Provide patient-centered professional development training for academic advisors and counselors;
Provide academic accommodations for students experiencing trauma, such as patient-centered training for tutors or the establishment of a confidential tutoring program specifically designed to assist student survivors of sexual assault and other violence;
Increase mental health services for student survivors of sexual assault and other violence; and
Create or enhance a fund for survivors of sexual assault and other violence to use for wrap-around services like housing, health care, and mental health treatment.

The S.O.S. Campus Act and the SUCCESS Act are endorsed by the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN).

Bill text of the S.O.S. Campus Act can be found HERE.

Bill text of the SUCCESS Act can be found HERE.

Dingell, Bacon Introduce Resolution Recognizing World Space Week

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Don Bacon (R-NE-02) introduced a bipartisan resolution designating October 4, 2026, through October 10, 2026, as ‘‘World Space Week” to recognize the contributions of space science and technology to the betterment of the human condition.

“The study and pursuit of space leads to both a greater understanding of our universe and our place in it,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “From inspiring the next generation of scientists, servicemembers, and engineers to driving innovations that improve our daily lives right here on Earth, space exploration unites us in curiosity and progress. I am proud to join Congressman Bacon in this bipartisan effort to recognize World Space Week.”

“America’s pioneering spirit has always pushed us to explore farther, innovate faster and achieve what once seemed impossible,” said Congressman Bacon. “Artemis II showed the world what American excellence looks like, bringing together our scientific talent, industrial strength and operational precision to achieve a historic mission. Today’s advances in rocket and launch technology are opening new opportunities for exploration, scientific discovery and economic growth while inspiring the next generation to look to the stars. I’m pleased to join Rep. Dingell in recognizing World Space Week and celebrating the scientists, engineers and innovators who continue pushing the boundaries of what we can accomplish.”

This year, World Space Week is celebrating its 27th year. World Space Week was designated by the United Nations (UN) in 1999 and consists of space-related events held at schools, museums, planetariums, aerospace companies, and space agencies around the world. The theme for 2026, “Rocket Revolution”, highlights transformative advancements in rocket and launch technologies and celebrates how modern rocket innovations reshape access to space and enable new missions, commercial opportunities, and broader participation in the space economy.

Text of the resolution can be found HERE.

NEW: Dingell Seeks Input on Federal Data Center “Bill of Rights”

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) announced she is drafting a federal data center “Bill of Rights” and is seeking input on a proposed framework to ensure communities have a meaningful voice in decisions surrounding large-scale data center projects.

“The rapid development of data centers has prompted concerns throughout Michigan’s Sixth District and beyond as communities are left with important questions on the potential impacts of these large-scale projects,” said Congresswoman Dingell.

Large data centers pay for all infrastructure costs, including the cost of energy generation, transmission, and distribution, water, roads, and environmental impacts;
Residential users of water, electricity, and gas are protected from paying any increased rates related to the development or operation of the data center for the entire operating period of the data center;
Data center developers disclose and pay for the energy and water demand of their projects and the sources of those resources, and do not pass on utility costs to ratepayers;
Projects undergo comprehensive environmental review addressing water, air quality, stormwater, wetlands, emissions, backup power, noise pollution, traffic, and more;
Water use is independently monitored with public reporting and enforceable protections for drinking water, groundwater, rivers, and wetlands;
Noise pollution is independently measured with enforceable limits;
Strong labor standards are held throughout each phase of projects, including through prevailing wage requirements and the use of apprentices and local labor;
Nearby schools and residential areas are protected from noise, pollution, rising utility cost, resource strain, and other disruptions;
Emergency-response plans are developed with local officials;
Government officials do not sign non-disclosure agreements preventing communities from understanding the data center projects being built in their communities;
If projects are cancelled or cease to exist, the developer has the responsibility to discontinue and responsibly manage the wind down of the project without passing costs down to the community;
Communities have opportunities for meaningful participation, with enforceable community-benefit agreements, for projects being built in their backyards; and
The roles and responsibilities are clearly defined for all levels of government — federal, state, and local levels — so that the community knows who is accountable at each level and clearly understands the oversight, compliance, and enforcement measures needed to protect our communities, resources, and the environment.

Congresswoman Dingell continued: “There is a need for clear and enforceable federal guardrails to ensure communities have a meaningful voice in these decisions. That is why I am working to draft a federal data center ‘Bill of Rights’ that ensures communities have a seat at the table, their input is valued, and their voices are heard, and that a number of important factors are considered before these projects are allowed to move forward.”

Comments on the proposed framework will be accepted through October 30, 2026, by emailing DingellComments@mail.house.gov.

A copy of Congresswoman Dingell’s announcement can be found HERE.

Dingell, Colleagues Introduce Resolution Honoring 27th Anniversary of Landmark Court Decision Supporting Americans with Disabilities

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), alongside Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-05), Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), and Tom Kean (R-NJ-07), introduced a bipartisan resolution marking the 27th anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court decision, Olmstead v. L.C., which recognized the unjustified institutional isolation of people with disabilities as discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and to reaffirm the right of people with disabilities to live in their homes and communities.

"It is essential that people with disabilities continue to have the right to live, work, and thrive in their own communities with dignity." said Congresswoman Dingell. "This bipartisan resolution reaffirms that we will not allow hard won progress to be rolled back, and that we will continue to protect and support the rights enshrined by the Olmstead decision for every person whose lives it has changed for the better."

"Although the Olmstead decision was issued more than twenty‑five years ago, its significance remains just as strong today. I am pleased to join my colleagues in introducing this resolution, reaffirming our commitment to ending discrimination based on disability," said Congressman Kean.

"For 27 years, the Supreme Court’s decision in Olmstead v. L.C. has informed the advancement of policies to empower individuals with disabilities to live and work independently in our communities," said Congresswoman Scanlon. "Recent attempts to undermine the Olmstead integration mandate and roll back those policies raises new opportunities for discrimination against our friends and neighbors with disabilities, and harms the larger community. I’m proud to join my House colleagues in recognizing Olmstead’s anniversary and recommitting ourselves to protecting community integration for the good of all."

"Olmstead affirmed a fundamental principle: every American deserves the freedom and opportunity to build a full life in the community they call home. As Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, that principle has always been at the heart of my work to break down barriers, strengthen independence, and ensure all Americans with disabilities have the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. Twenty-seven years later, our responsibility is not simply to recognize the progress Olmstead made possible, but to protect it, build upon it, and ensure that progress is never reversed," said Congressman Fitzpatrick.

"Community-based services and supports work. They are more cost-effective, produce better health and quality-of-life outcomes, and honor people with disabilities’ autonomy and self-determination. The consequences of weakening the integration mandate would be profound and impact millions of Americans’ ability to access home and community-based services that allow them to remain among their families, maintain employment, pursue education, and participate in civic life," said Congresswoman Lateefah Simon. "That's why as the first congenitally blind Member to serve in Congress, I am proud to join my bipartisan colleagues to reaffirm the Olmstead decision and fight any attempts to diminish the civil rights of the disability community."

The resolution is endorsed by the Caring Across Generations, United Spinal, ANCOR, Autism Self Advocacy Network, National Council on Independent Living, American Association of People with Disabilities, and the National Disability Rights Network.

This resolution follows an August 2026 effort led by Congresswomen Dingell and Scanlon condemning a Department of Justice (DOJ) legal opinion that was issued in June 2026 regarding Olmstead v. L.C. While the legal opinion does not overturn the decision, it threatens enforcement of the rights afforded by the Court’s decision under a hostile DOJ that has failed to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities.

A copy of the resolution can be found HERE.

Dingell, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Bolster Great Lakes Conservation Efforts

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Tim Walberg (R-MI-05), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Bill Huizenga (R-MI-04), David Joyce (R-OH-14), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Tom Barrett (R-MI-07), and Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) introduced the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill to bolster federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation. This legislation designates the Great Lakes Commission (GLC) as the official Regional Great Lakes Partnership within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Regional Ocean Partnerships Program.

This designation ensures that the Great Lakes region receives a fair share of program funding, delivering federal resources to support the GLC’s longstanding work to coordinate Great Lakes research and conservation efforts.

"The Great Lakes and their connected waterways are invaluable resources for Michigan and the United States," said Congresswoman Dingell. "As a co-chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to help introduce this bipartisan bill to strengthen federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation for future generations to enjoy these national treasures."

"As the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are central to Michigan’s economy, identity, and long‑term prosperity,” said Congressman Walberg. "The bipartisan Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act ensures the region receives its fair share of federal support, strengthening the research and conservation work needed to protect this indispensable resource. We must equip our partners with the tools necessary to safeguard the waters and communities that rely on a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem."

"As a Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I helped introduce this legislation to close a gap in a national program that benefits only coastal ocean states. The bill continues our work together to ensure the Federal Government levels the playing field to commit equivalent, well‑deserved resources to our Great Lakes region," said Congresswoman Kaptur. "The Great Lakes are central and essential to Northwest Ohio’s livelihood and economic wellbeing, and enabling the Great Lakes Commission to participate in this NOAA program will strengthen data sharing, enhance information access, and improve management of our coastal and ecosystem resources. In Lake Erie’s Western Basin, home to the shallowest and southernmost shoreline in the Great Lakes system, we face these challenges in real ways and will continue to lead in advancing research and information exchange for the benefit of our entire region."

"As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I have made it my mission to have the federal government recognize the Great Lakes as a national priority," said Congressman Huizenga. "The Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act furthers this objective by enhancing the Great Lakes Commission’s steadfast work to protect and conserve Michigan’s most valuable natural resource."

"The Great Lakes are a critical resource for the economies and communities that surround them," said Congressman Joyce. "As Co-Chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of this bipartisan legislation, which will strengthen federal partnerships and expand funding opportunities to advance the research, coordination, and conservation efforts needed to protect the Great Lakes — ensuring they remain a resource our communities can rely on for generations to come."

"Michigan is the Great Lakes state, period. Jobs, recreation, and tourism across the Midwest depend on a healthy and flourishing Great Lakes ecosystem," said Congresswoman Stevens. "I’m proud to work alongside my colleagues of both parties to ensure that Michigan receives our fair share of federal investment that will protect and preserve our Lakes for generations to come."

"Protecting the Great Lakes means protecting our water, wildlife, and communities throughout the region," said Congressman Barrett. "This bipartisan legislation will help bring federal resources to the table and strengthen the partnerships already working to preserve our state's natural resources. I’m proud to work with colleagues from across the region to ensure our Great Lakes remain healthy for generations to come."

"As the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are one of Michigan’s greatest assets," said Congresswoman Scholten. "I’m proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in supporting the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act. This commonsense bill will strengthen the research and coordination that keeps the Great Lakes region healthy. Investing in our Great Lakes is investing in our future, and it’s crucial that we conserve this resource for the next generation."

"The Great Lakes Commission is grateful to Rep. Walberg for introducing this important legislation to designate the GLC as a regional partnership for the Great Lakes," said GLC Chair Timothy Bruno, “Great Lakes Program Coordinator at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. "This designation will allow the agency to build on its more than 70 years of regional leadership — fostering dialogue, building consensus, and advancing coordinated solutions to the Great Lakes’ most pressing challenges — to ensure the Great Lakes region continues to speak with a strong, unified voice. We look forward to working with our partners to realize the full benefits of this program for the region."

The Great Lakes Commission (GLC) brings together eight U.S. states and two Canadian provinces to protect the Great Lakes and promote economic growth in the Great Lakes basin. The GLC is composed of the States of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

NOAA’s Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) coordinate interstate ocean and coastal resource management efforts and create opportunities for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Although NOAA administers four Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) across the Northeast, Mid‑Atlantic, Gulf, and West Coast, the Great Lakes currently lack an ROP. Designating the GLC as the region’s ROP will ensure the Great Lakes region receives its fair share of program funding.

Companion legislation, introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Bernie Moreno (R-OH), has been advanced by the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.

Dingell Statement on Trump Administration Lowering Fuel Economy Standards, Ceding Ground to China

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) released the following statement in the wake of the Trump Administration’s decision to lower fuel economy standards in internal combustion engine-powered cars:

“Today’s decision risks putting the American automotive industry at a competitive disadvantage while the rest of the world races ahead, and it also ignores the more pressing issue working men and women are facing right now with the cost-of-living crisis and the rising price of gas. Americans should have the freedom to choose the vehicle that works best for them, whether that’s electric, hybrid, or an internal combustion engine. But consumer choice and American leadership are not mutually exclusive,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “The global auto industry is changing rapidly, and China and other countries are investing heavily in the technologies that will define the future. The global market wants electric vehicles, and we cannot afford to fall behind. Our auto industry cannot continue to be a political ping-pong ball every four years. We need stable policies that make transportation more affordable, support good-paying American jobs, and give our industry the certainty they need to invest, innovate, and compete. Michigan put the world on wheels, and I intend to make sure we remain competitive in the global marketplace. We need policies that give consumers choices while ensuring the next generation of vehicles, including EVs, are developed and built right here in America.”

Dingell, Walberg to Host Washtenaw County Veterans Fair

Mon, 13 May 2019 14:00:00 GMT

U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12) and U.S. Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-07) will co-host a Veterans Resource Fair in Washtenaw County on Monday, May 13 to provide veterans and their family members with access to resources earned through their service to our country. More than 20 veteran employment specialists, Veterans Affairs counselors, and veterans service organizations will participate. Constituents can call Congresswoman Dingell’s office at 313-278-2936 or Congressman Walberg’s office at 517-780-9075 for more information.

Veterans are encouraged to bring a copy of their DD214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty.

At the fair, veterans will be able to register for eBenefits, file or check the status of a VA claim, check their healthcare benefits or enrollment, find veteran peer support, find employment services, and connect with financial assistance if needed.

WHAT: Dingell, Walberg to hold Washtenaw County Veterans Resource Fair

WHEN: Monday, May 13 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

WHERE: VFW Post 423, 3230 S. Wagner Rd. in Ann Arbor

PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATIONS:

American Legion

Attorney General - Consumer Protection

Buddy-to-Buddy

Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw County

Concordia University

Department of Labor Disabled Veterans Outreach

Detroit VARO (Veterans Benefits Administration)

Eisenhower Center

Fischer House Michigan

Great Lakes National Cemetery

Habitat for Humanity Huron Valley

Michigan Works! Washtenaw

National Guard Family Assistance Center

State Senator Jeff Irwin

State Representative Donna Lasinski

State Representative Rebekah Warren

Tags and Tails

Talent Investment Agency, Veterans’ Employment Services

VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System

VA Loan Guaranty Division

VCAT Region 9 / Community Action Agency

Vietnam Veterans of America

Volunteers of America Michigan

Washtenaw County Veterans Affairs