Dingell, Debbie RSS Articles

Dingell, Stevens Introduce Vehicle Innovation Act

Fri, 01 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Haley Stevens (D-MI-11) introduced the Vehicle Innovation Act of 2026 to promote investments in research and development of clean vehicle technologies to increase fuel efficiency, reduce our nation’s dependence on foreign oil, strengthen our supply chains, and support American auto manufacturers and supplies.

“Innovation has always defined the American auto industry, and that must remain the case as we confront the climate crisis. The Vehicle Innovation Act invests in the research and development needed to improve vehicle efficiency, strengthen domestic supply chains, and produce cutting-edge clean vehicle technology. This legislation empowers American workers, companies, and inventors, and will help ensure that Michigan and the United States continue to lead the world in automotive innovation,” said Congresswoman Dingell.

“Michigan researchers and manufacturers are leading the charge to make our vehicles and our roads safer. I am proud to join Congresswoman Dingell in introducing our Vehicle Innovation Act, which will invest in critical research and development, strengthen American supply chains, and create good-paying jobs right here in Michigan,” said Congresswoman Stevens.

“Auto Innovators thanks Reps. Dingell and Stevens for their leadership in introducing the Vehicle Innovation Act,” said John Bozzella, President & CEO, Alliance for Automotive Innovation. “Automakers are committed to a cleaner, safer, smarter transportation future, including major investments that have improved vehicle efficiency and advanced new safety technologies. This important legislation will support critical research and development programs needed to advance those goals while ensuring the United States remains a global leader in automotive innovation.”

The Vehicle Innovation Act reauthorizes the Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technologies Office, which works with manufacturers and suppliers to research, develop and deploy advanced vehicle technologies that improve energy efficiency. The bill also provides the Department of Energy with clear direction to build on successful research programs and encourages the development of a wide array of technologies that have the potential to improve fuel efficiency and reduce traffic congestion.

Examples of potential fuel-saving technologies include vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2X) communications, mild hybrid, engine down speeding, power pack modeling and testing, advanced boosting systems, new vehicle sensing and communication, hydrogen and natural gas refueling and electric vehicle charging technology.

A copy of the legislation can be found HERE.

Dingell, Colleagues Introduce Bills to Strengthen Home Care Access

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell introduced the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Access Act and the Long-Term Care Workforce Support Act, two separate pieces of legislation to strengthen home care access and the caregiving workforce.

Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Access Act

In addition to Congresswoman Dingell, the HCBS Access Act is co-led by U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09).

“We know that the majority of individuals who require long-term care would prefer to receive it in their own homes and communities. No one should have to wait years to get the care they deserve, and no care worker should have to live below the poverty line to give this care,” said Congresswoman Dingell.“Medicaid is the single largest payer of long-term care in our country. At a time when Medicaid is facing unprecedented, historic cuts, it’s more important than ever that we prioritize home and community-based services. This is the less expensive option for both families and the federal government, but the people who don’t want us to improve the system are the corporations profiting while Americans struggle. This legislation will provide much-needed investment in our care workforce, making it easier for those who need care to get it, and supporting the caregivers doing this crucial work.”

“Older adults and people with disabilities deserve to live with dignity and age in place. Yet the United States still lacks a comprehensive long-term care policy that meets the needs of our most vulnerable communities. Medicaid Home- and Community-Based Services help fill this gap, ensuring millions of Americans can remain independent in their homes and communities,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “I am proud to join my colleague Congresswoman Dingell in introducing this legislation to strengthen our nation’s care infrastructure by expanding access to Medicaid home care, investing in the direct care workforce, and supporting family caregivers. It’s time to move beyond discussion and deliver real national solutions to the caregiving crisis.”

The problem

Many older adults and people with disabilities who need help with daily activities such as eating, dressing, traveling to work or school, and managing finances, are eligible for Medicaid long-term services and supports (LTSS) to support their everyday needs. These beneficiaries have immediate access to nursing homes or other institutional settings. But if they want to remain in their homes with the help of Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), they are often put on a waiting list and can wait years or even decades for services and support. Medicaid policy has always paid for nursing home and other institutional care for those eligible for LTSS but will not pay for home and community-based services unless a waiver has been granted. This bill would put both options on equal footing and give families an equal choice between home and community care or institutional care.

This current system fails to meet the needs of millions of older adults and people with disabilities. While many people want to live in their own homes and communities, they may be forced to live in an institutional setting just to access the services they need. As the 1999 Supreme Court Olmstead decision stated, everyone—no matter their disability—has the right to receive services in their community and to live in their own home.

The solution

The HCBS Access Act is designed to ensure eligible older adults and people with disabilities have a real choice of care and support options between home care and institutional care. The bill would, over time, eliminate HCBS waiting lists and the need for states to repeatedly apply for HCBS waivers. Specifically, the bill would:

Increase Medicaid funding for home and community-based services;
Increase the federal match for state funding to expand their capacity to meet the needs of people who prefer HCBS;
Make steps to improve the stability, availability, and quality of direct care providers to help address the decades-long workforce shortage crisis;
Provide states with resources so that caregiving workers—who are disproportionately women of color—have stable, quality jobs and a living wage;
Provide training and support for family caregivers; and
Create better evaluation measures to assess the quality of HCBS being provided.

The legislation is endorsed by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (ASFCME), Justice in Aging, the National Health Law Program (NHeLP), the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Little Lobbyists, Partnership for Inclusive Disaster Strategies, Partnership for Inclusive Disaster Strategies, American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR), ADAPT, and PHI.

Long-Term Care Workforce Support Act

In addition to Congresswoman Dingell, the Long-Term Care Workforce Support Act is co-led by U.S. Representative Doris Matsui (D-CA-07).

“Caregiving is the foundation of our economy. It allows for all other work to be possible. No care worker should have to live below the poverty line to do this work that millions of Americans depend on. As many know, this is deeply personal for me – I was lucky to have my husband John receive care at home, but many others do not have the same opportunity,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “This legislation will make much needed investments in our care infrastructure and workforce, including family caregivers, to ensure they have the support they need, are paid a living wage, and are able to continue doing their critical jobs.”

“Every day, caregivers show up with compassion, skill, and devotion for the people and families who depend on them,” said Congresswoman Matsui.“Yet too many of these essential workers do not receive the pay or support they deserve. I have always believed caregivers should be treated with the dignity and respect they give to others, and the Long-Term Care Workforce Support Act moves us closer to that goal. By investing in this workforce, we can also strengthen care for older adults and people with disabilities, support families, and build a stronger, more stable economy for everyone.”

The problem

As the number of older adults and people with disabilities continue to increase in the country, the number of direct care professionals – including personal care aides, home health aides, direct support professionals, and many others – will also need to increase. The five million direct care professionals currently employed provide services to people living in their homes, in group homes, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, intermediate care facilities and other long-term care settings. Studies also estimate that, by 2031, 9.3 million direct care professionals will be required to meet the caregiving demands of older adults and people with disabilities.

Ninety-two percent of nursing home respondents and nearly 70 percent of assisted living facilities surveyed report significant or severe workforce shortages. In 2022, a survey of nursing homes showed more than 50% of the facilities were limiting the number of new admissions due to staffing vacancies or shortages. Another recent survey of home and community-based services (HCBS) providers showed all 50 states experiencing home care worker shortages, and 43 states reported that some HCBS providers have closed due to worker shortages.

In 2022, the median hourly wage for all direct care professionals was $15.43, with home care aides earning $14.51. One in eight direct care professionals live in poverty, 75% earn less than the average living wage in their state, and 46% rely on public assistance, such as Medicaid, food assistance, or supplemental benefits. In addition to low wages, these workers report high levels of burnout and professional fatigue due to the daily physical and emotional demands of their jobs, lack of respect for the care that they provide, and health and emotional effects from battling the COVID-19 pandemic. Most direct care professionals are women, immigrants, and people of color, further perpetuating racial, gender, and economic inequalities.

The solution

Stabilizing, growing, and supporting the direct care professional workforce is essential to ensuring a strong, qualified pipeline of workers to provide needed services to older adults and people with disabilities. Ensuring that direct care professionals are fairly compensated and protected will also benefit them, their families, and their communities.

Specifically, the Long-Term Care Workforce Support Act will:

Increase the number of direct care professionals, including in rural communities;
Provide pathways to enter and be supported in the workforce for women, people of color, and people with disabilities;
Improve compensation for direct care professionals to reduce vacancies and turnover;
Ensure that the direct care professionals are treated with respect, provided with a safe working environment, protected from exploitation, and provided fair compensation;
Improve access and quality of long-term care for families;
Document the need for long-term care, identify effective recruitment and training strategies, and promote practices that help retain direct care professionals.
Strengthen the direct care professional workforce in order to support the 53,000,000 unpaid family caregivers who are providing complex services to their loved ones in the home and across long-term care settings.

Dingell, Colleagues Urge President Trump to Block Chinese Automakers from Entering U.S. Market

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

ICYMI from the Wall Street Journal: House Lawmakers Urge Trump to Prohibit China’s Automakers From Building Cars in the U.S.

Today, U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and 73 of her House Democratic colleagues urged President Trump to block Chinese automakers from accessing the United States market. The lawmakers are raising concerns over threats to American workers and business, manufacturing, and national security.

The effort comes ahead of President Trump’s planned meeting with Chinese Xi Jinping in mid-May in Beijing, and it follows reports of Chinese automakers targeting the North American market, including the United States.

“As you prepare for your upcoming summit with the President of the People’s Republic of China, any effort to lower barriers for Chinese automobiles or otherwise facilitate their entry into the U.S. market would pose a direct threat to American manufacturing, workers, and national security. This must remain a firm and non-negotiable priority,” the lawmakers said.

The lawmakers emphasized that the U.S. auto industry is a cornerstone of the American economy, supporting approximately 10 million jobs. They warned that Chinese automakers benefit from heavy state subsidies and exploitative labor conditions that distort global competition and disadvantage American companies and workers.

The letter to President Trump also raises concerns about China’s efforts to circumvent U.S. trade protections by routing vehicles through Canada and Mexico under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

“Chinese-owned or controlled vehicles, regardless of where they are assembled, must not be permitted to enter our market through USMCA or any other mechanism. Allowing such circumvention would undermine existing tariffs, weaken trade enforcement, and erode policies designed to support domestic manufacturing,” the lawmakers said.

To address the concerns outlined in the letter, Congresswoman Dingell and the lawmakers called on President Trump to:

Maintain and strengthen existing tariffs and trade enforcement measures on Chinese automakers and automobiles;
Ensure that Chinese automakers cannot establish manufacturing operations in the United States or use North American production as a backdoor into the U.S. market;
Explicitly prohibit vehicles produced by Chinese-owned or controlled entities in Canada or Mexico from qualifying for USMCA benefits or entering the United States;
Accelerate and expand restrictions on Chinese-connected vehicle technologies across all vehicle classes; and
Work with allies to counter China’s coordinated effort to dominate the global auto industry through non-market practices.

In addition to Congresswoman Dingell, Members of Congress who signed this letter include Gabe Amo (D-RI-01), Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03), Wesley Bell (D-MO-01), Brendan Boyle (D-PA-02), Shontel Brown (D-OH-11), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), Janelle Bynum (D-OR-05), Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), André Carson (D-IN-07), Troy Carter (D-LA-02), Gilbert Cisneros (D-CA-31), Yvette Clarke (D-NY-09), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09), Lou Correa (D-CA-46), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), Sharice Davids (D-KS-03), Donald Davis (D-NC-01), Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03), Christopher DeLuzio (D-PA-17), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD-03), Veronica Escobar (D-TX-16), Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX-07), John Garamendi (D-CA-08), Laura Gillen (D-NY-04), Jimmy Gomez (D-CA-34), Steven Horsford (D-NV-04), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06), Val Hoyle (D-OR-04), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Julie Johnson (D-TX-32), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Timothy Kennedy (D-NY-26), Ro Khanna (D-CA-17), Greg Landsman (D-OH-01), John Larson (D-CT-01), George Latimer (D-NY-16), Susie Lee (D-NV-03), Stephen Lynch (D-MA-08), John Mannion (D-NY-22), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI-08), Morgan McGarvey (D-KY-03), Robert Menendez (D-NJ-08), Joseph Morelle (D-NY-25), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL-23), Frank Mrvan (D-IN-01), Donald Norcross (D-NJ-01), Scott Peters (D-CA-50), Mark Pocan (D-WI-02), Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09), Emily Randall (D-WA-06), Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), Josh Riley (D-NY-19), Raul Ruiz (D-CA-25), Andrea Salinas (D-OR-06), Janice Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), Terri Sewell (D-AL-07), Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17), Darren Soto (D-FL-09), Greg Stanton (D-AZ-04), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10), Thomas Suozzi (D-NY-03), Emilia Sykes (D-OH-13), Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), Bennie Thompson (D-MS-02), Paul Tonko (D-NY-20), Ritchie Torres (D-NY-15), Derek Tran (D-CA-45), Marc Veasey (D-TX-33), and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25).

The letter can be found HERE and text is below:

Dear Mr. President:

This letter expresses our significant concern with your remarks about allowing Chinese automakers access to the United States market. We urge your administration to take any and all decisive action necessary to prevent such entry.

As you prepare for your upcoming summit with the President of the People’s Republic of China, any effort to lower barriers for Chinese automobiles or otherwise facilitate their entry into the U.S. market would pose a direct threat to American manufacturing, workers, and national security. This must remain a firm and non-negotiable priority.

The U.S. auto industry is the backbone of American manufacturing. It supports approximately 10 million jobs and accounts for 5 percent of our gross domestic product (GDP). It sustains a vast and interconnected manufacturing base — from steel and semiconductors to parts suppliers and advanced technologies — that supports economic growth and middle-class jobs in communities across our country.

The Chinese auto industry does not compete on a level playing field. It is driven by a state-directed strategy to dominate global markets through government subsidies, below-market financing, and non-market behavior across the supply chain. These advantages are compounded by exploitative labor practices, including suppressed wages, lack of worker protections, and credible reports of forced labor, creating structural advantages that no American company operating under fair labor standards can match.

These practices have already reshaped the global auto market. In 2025, China exported more than 8 million vehicles. Chinese brands now account for roughly 62 percent of the global electric vehicle market. Their vehicles, which are heavily subsidized and often priced far below market rates, are rapidly expanding across South America, the Middle East, Europe, and other emerging markets, capturing market share and reshaping the global auto industry.

China is actively positioning itself to bypass U.S. trade protections by expanding its presence in North America. In Mexico, Chinese vehicle imports have surged from 2021 to 2025. In Canada, recent policy changes have significantly lowered tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, allowing tens of thousands of vehicles into the Canadian market annually under a quota system, potentially reaching 70,000 vehicles per year by 2030. These developments raise serious concerns that Chinese automobiles could establish a foothold in Canada and seek to move into the United States market, and these trends create a clear and urgent risk that Chinese automakers are looking to use Canada and Mexico as a backdoor into the United States under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

Chinese-owned or controlled vehicles, regardless of where they are assembled, must not be permitted to enter our market through USMCA or any other mechanism. Allowing such circumvention would undermine existing tariffs, weaken trade enforcement, and erode policies designed to support domestic manufacturing.

There are real national security implications, as today’s vehicles are increasingly connected, capable of collecting and transmitting sensitive data about drivers, infrastructure, and surrounding environments. The U.S. Department of Commerce has already recognized the risks posed by Chinese-connected vehicle technologies, including the potential for surveillance, data exploitation, and remote interference. These risks are inherent and cannot be mitigated once embedded in our transportation network.

We have consistently worked to confront these threats by supporting strong trade enforcement, pushing for restrictions on Chinese-connected vehicle technologies, and advocating for policies that protect American workers and domestic manufacturing. This is a bipartisan issue that is about protecting our industrial base, our workforce, and our national security, and we urge your administration to:

Maintain and strengthen existing tariffs and trade enforcement measures on Chinese automakers and automobiles;
Ensure that Chinese automakers cannot establish manufacturing operations in the United States or use North American production as a backdoor into the U.S. market;
Explicitly prohibit vehicles produced by Chinese-owned or controlled entities in Canada or Mexico from qualifying for USMCA benefits or entering the United States;
Accelerate and expand restrictions on Chinese-connected vehicle technologies across all vehicle classes; and
Work with allies to counter China’s coordinated effort to dominate the global auto industry through non-market practices.

We must not cede the American auto industry to a strategic competitor intent on global dominance. The consequences for American workers, our supply chains, our national security, and our communities would be profound and irreversible. Therefore, we urge you to take clear and decisive action to ensure that Chinese automakers are not permitted to enter the United States market in any capacity.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Michigan Democrats Raise Alarm Over Reports of Hunger Strike at Largest ICE Facility in Midwest

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), alongside all U.S. House Democrats in Michigan’s congressional delegation, raised alarms over reports of an alleged ongoing hunger strike at the North Lake Processing Center (NLPC) in Baldwin, Michigan. The center is the largest ICE facility in the Midwest; nearly 1,400 people are currently being held here. In a letter to the Trump Administration, the Michigan Democrats uplifted the concerns over facility conditions following a plethora of reports of dangerous conditions, poor medical care, and limited opportunities for legal recourse for detainees.

“The claims by detainees about the conditions at the facility are troubling and follow reporting in March 2026 that called medical care at the facility into question, given the NLPC placed 87 emergency calls between June 2025 and January 2026, many of which were for “sick unknown” cases and unconscious or unresponsive detainees,” the lawmakers said. “On April 23, 2026, ICE told reporters that “there is no hunger strike at the ICE North Lake Processing Facility” and “any claim that there are subprime conditions at the North Lake Facility… is false.” We are troubled that the repeated reports from detainees and their advocates stand in such stark contrast to the statements from ICE.”

The lawmakers are pressing for answers to a series of questions from the Trump Administration, including information on the alleged hunger strike currently occurring at the facility.

In addition to Congresswoman Dingell, the letter is signed by U.S. Representatives Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI-08), Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), and Haley Stevens (D-MI-11).

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

Dear Secretary Mullin and Acting Director Lyons:

This letter is seeking answers about the alleged conditions faced by detainees at the North Lake Processing Center (NLPC) in Baldwin, Michigan, as well as the alleged hunger strike currently occurring at the facility. We are deeply concerned that reports of a possible hunger strike are not aligned with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) statements. We urge ICE to provide greater oversight of this privately-operated facility to ensure the health and wellbeing of the people being held there.

The North Lake Processing Center is the largest detention center in the Midwest. It is a privately-owned GEO Group facility that previously operated as a prison under contract with the Federal Bureau of Prisons. During this time, numerous alleged hunger strikes took place at the facility over demands for adequate food and medical care for detainees. Nearly 1,400 people are currently being held at the NLPC.

It has been reported that detainees began a hunger strike at the North Lake Processing Center on April 19, 2026, over “dangerous” detention conditions, poor medical care, and limited opportunities for legal recourse. The claims by detainees about the conditions at the facility are troubling and follow reporting in March 2026 that called medical care at the facility into question, given the NLPC placed 87 emergency calls between June 2025 and January 2026, many of which were for “sick unknown” cases and unconscious or unresponsive detainees. On April 23, 2026, ICE told reporters that “there is no hunger strike at the ICE North Lake Processing Facility” and “any claim that there are subprime conditions at the North Lake Facility… is false.” We are troubled that the repeated reports from detainees and their advocates stand in such stark contrast to the statements from ICE. ICE has a responsibility to be transparent in its operations and to clearly communicate with local communities about their policies and activities.

This disconnect between media reports and official statements comes at a time when the Trump Administration has gutted the offices that were in place to safeguard against violations to detainee’s rights, the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL) and the Office of the Immigration Detention ombudsman (OIDO). Since January 2025, staffing for the CRCL has dropped by 80% and staffing for OID has dropped by 96%.

Given these concerns, we would like to request your responses to the following questions no later than May 1, 2026:

Is there a hunger strike occurring at the North Lake Processing Center?
- If so, how many detainees are participating in the strike or refusing food?
If there was a hunger strike occurring at the North Lake Processing Center, how would ICE handle the situation?
What policies are in place by ICE and the North Lake Processing Center regarding detainee protests?
How does ICE define adequate food? How does ICE define a meal?
- Are privately run facilities contracted by ICE required to use these same definitions?
- How do ICE and the NLPC manage dietary restrictions, including those for religious practices, for detainees?
- How many meals are offered every day?
How does ICE define adequate drinking water?
- Are privately run facilities contracted by ICE required to use this same definition?
How does ICE define adequate medical care?
- Are privately run facilities contracted by ICE required to use this same definition?
- How many medical personnel are on site at the NLPC to handle the needs of detainees?
Are detainees at the North Lake Processing Center receiving adequate food and medical care, in line with ICE requirements?
How many detainees have had to be taken to medical facilities outside NLPC for care since the NLPC opened? And for what reasons?
- How many detainees have been denied medical care at NLPC?
- What are the current wait times for non-emergency medical care for detainees at NLPC?
Has anyone died at the North Lake Processing Center?
- If so, how many and why?
How many translators are employed at the North Lake Processing Center?
- When do detainees at NLPC have access to a translator?

Thank you for your attention to this issue. We look forward to your response.

Dingell, Malliotakis Headline First-Ever NBC News “Common Ground” Live Event to Highlight Power of Bipartisanship

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

In a powerful demonstration of bipartisan leadership, U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11) joined forces to urge Americans to work together and highlight the power of bipartisanship in getting good done in Washington during the first-ever live event for NBC News’ “Common Ground” series.

“Relationships matter [...] if you trust somebody, you can work out deals,” Congresswoman Dingell said during the event.

Amid an increasingly polarizing era in American politics, this event spotlighted the importance of collaboration and constructive dialogue. The discussion brought together the two lawmakers from both parties to model respectful conversation, identify shared priorities, and remind Americans there is more that unites us than divides us. The congresswomen also discussed their joint leadership on the bipartisan Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum Act, which would secure a site for the American Women’s History Museum on the National Mall, ensuring women’s contributions to our country’s history are properly honored in the heart of our nation’s capital.

“Women are a very important part of the history of this country, and there’s so many stories people do not even know. [...] We do not look at this as Democrats or Republicans, we look at it as people in this country should know the history of so many incredible women,” said Congresswoman Dingell.

Both members of the Problem Solvers Caucus, Congresswomen Dingell and Malliotakis have worked together on a number of bipartisan legislative efforts. This includes legislation to prevent Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) from overcharging plans and underpaying pharmacies, legislation incentivizing hiring individuals with disabilities by modernizing the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, legislation to eliminate federal taxes on overtime pay for all union workers, and more.

NBC News’ “Common Ground” brings together leaders with different perspectives who agree on solutions to the issues that matter most to Americans. Common Good highlights stories that uplift and inspire, reflecting the connections that unite us and the people making a difference. Originally started as a television special on NBC News’ Meet the Press, this was the network’s first live event for the series.

Watch the congresswomen’s conversation HERE.

Dingell, Brownley, Markey Introduce Legislation to Strengthen Climate Education

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Julia Brownley (D-CA-26), alongside U.S. Senator Ed Markey (D-MA), introduced the bicameral Climate Change Education Act, which would establish a Climate Change Education Program within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to provide grants and technical assistance to state and local education agencies, institutions of higher learning, professional associations and academic societies, and youth corps organizations. The legislation would help ensure that graduating students are trained to live, work, and lead in a world increasingly impacted by climate change.

“We cannot fully confront the existential threat of climate change without a thorough understanding of the impact it will have on our lives and the steps we must take to combat it. Students learning these lessons today will be on the frontlines of the fight to save our planet. With this legislation, we will ensure our students and teachers are equipped with the knowledge and support they need to help us address this challenge today and in the future,” said Congresswoman Dingell.

“The climate crisis has left no corner of the globe unscathed, especially not my home state of California,” said Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26). “From longer wildfire seasons to rising sea levels to increasingly frequent and deadly natural disasters, climate change is already wreaking havoc on our communities, ecosystems, infrastructure, and economy. As this crisis worsens, younger and upcoming generations stand to suffer the most. That is why we must invest in education opportunities that will equip students with a thorough understanding of climate change and the skills needed to curb its effects, safeguard public health, and secure a competitive clean energy economy. Climate literacy is a critical solution to a problem that will disproportionately impact today's youth, and it is our moral imperative to help them build a climate-resilient future for generations to come."

“Young people today are inheriting a hotter and more dangerous planet, and they deserve to have the knowledge and technical skills necessary to solve and survive the climate crisis,” said Senator Markey. “The Climate Change Education Act is an investment in students, teachers, and a sustainable future. As extreme weather, rising seas, and climate-fueled health risks are increasingly obvious in our day-to-day lives, this bill would empower students with information and support the next generation of scientific champions. I thank Congresswomen Dingell and Brownley for this partnership on legislation that builds power and a better future.”

The Climate Change Education Act would support climate literacy by authorizing $50 million per year between fiscal years 2027 and 2032 for grants and cooperative agreements between NOAA and education entities. The bill stipulates that 40 percent of the funds for higher education institutions and youth corps organizations would be directed to environmental justice communities.

Dingell, Simon, Pettersen Introduce Resolution Marking Care Workers Recognition Month

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, the Democratic Women's Caucus Caregiving Task Force co-chairs Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), and Brittany Pettersen (D-CO-07) introduced a resolution establishing April as Care Workers Recognition Month to honor the roles and contributions of care workers.

“Caregiving is a core part of our economy,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “But we have a caregiving crisis in this country with millions on waiting lists to get the care they need, and an increasing number of people unable to afford it. And those who work as caregivers are not being paid fairly for their critical role. That is why it is important to recognize and honor care workers and the crucial work they do, because caregiving makes all other work is possible. When your loved ones are cared for, you can focus on the job that has to be done.”

"Care workers are the backbone of our nation, our economy, and our future. For FAR too long, they have been under recognized, undervalued, underpaid, underappreciated — the list goes on. That's why my fellow Democratic Women's Caucus Caregiving Task Force Co-Chairs and I are joining together to introduce a Congressional resolution that recognizes April as Care Worker Month," said Congresswoman Simon. "This is just a first step towards recognizing the importance of care workers and building a new world that properly values, gives dignity to, and adequately supports and protects care workers."

“Our caregivers do some of the most important but underappreciated work in our country – everything from cooking meals, to providing early childhood enrichment programs, administering medications, paying bills, and driving loved ones to frequent medical appointments. But that care can take a toll. That is why I am joining my colleagues to introduce this resolution recognizing Care Worker Month, because recognition is a small first step we can take to make sure they get the appreciation they deserve. Recognition alone doesn’t pay the bills or lower costs — we have to keep working to ensure every caregiver can access the resources and the real support they need,” said Congresswoman Pettersen.

In December, Dingell, Simon, and Petterson launched the Democratic Women’s Caucus Caregiving Task Force to address problems in the caregiving economy and protect and strengthen America’s care economy by advancing policies that uplift caregivers, those they care for, and their families.

Dingell has long been a leader in Congress on expanding access to care for the elderly and the disability community, supporting the caregiving workforce, and investing in the care economy. She introduced the Better Care Better Jobs Act and HCBS Access Act to enhance federal funding for home care, strengthen the caregiving workforce, improve quality of life for patients, provide respite for family caregivers, and create good-paying jobs.

View the full text of the Care Worker Recognition Month resolution HERE.

Dingell Secures More Than $45 Million in Health Care Funding for the University of Michigan

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) announced she secured $45,271,629 in federal grant funding for the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor to support a wide range of research initiatives, including aging, nursing, neurological disorders, cancer, and more. The funding comes from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and was made possible by Congresswoman Dingell’s advocacy.

“This funding will bolster the University of Michigan’s leadership in research and innovation,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “These federal grants are a powerful investment in the health, safety, and well-being of our communities, and I am proud to have secured this money. I will never stop working to deliver federal resources to Michigan that secure better treatments and improve patient outcomes.”

Projects receiving funding include:

$2,401,493 for Diabetes Endocrinology and Metabolic Research
$1,097,482 for Heart and Vascular Diseases Research
$609,097 for Discovery and Applied Research for Technological Innovations to Improve Human Health
$2,700,816 for Aging Research
$3,394,567 for Cancer Research
$2,199,878 for Research for Mothers and Children
$2,849,058 for Allergy Immunology and Transplantation Research
$553,631 for B - Cooperative Agreements
$616,719 for Biological Research Related to Deafness and Communicative Disorders
$4,688,085 for Biological Response to Environmental Health Hazards
$555,533 for Biomedical Research and Research Training
$1,325,195 for Clinical Research Related to Neurological Disorders
$609,097 for Discovery and Applied Research for Technological Innovations to Improve Human Health
$11,050,452 for Drug Abuse and Addiction Research Programs
$1,757,617 for Extramural Research Programs in the Neurosciences and Neurological Disorders
$741,396 for Lung Diseases Research
$234,000 for Mental Health Research Grants
$1,072,090 for Oral Diseases and Disorders Research
$6,115,137 for Pharmacology Physiology and Biological Chemistry Research
$700,286 for Vision Research

A full list of projects receiving grant funding can be found HERE.

HHS is the largest grant-making agency in the United States. Most HHS grants are provided directly to states, territories, tribes, and educational and community organizations, then distributed to eligible individuals and organizations. For more information on HHS grants, click here.

Dingell Presses Administration for Answers on Mail Service Disruptions for Michiganders

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) is pressing the Trump Administration for answers for Michiganders following a series of United States Postal Service (USPS) delivery disruptions in Southeast Michigan. In a letter to Postmaster General David Steiner, Congresswoman Dingell demanded an explanation for the mail delays and disruptions affecting delivery of time-sensitive bills, medications, payments, legal documents, and other urgent communications. The Congresswoman noted it is especially important Michiganders can trust the timeliness of mail services ahead of the upcoming elections for voters choosing to vote by mail.

“These deliveries are not only essential for security, but they are also vital for the well-being, health, and livelihood of those who depend on USPS services. With tax season underway and elections approaching, timely and accurate mail delivery is more important than ever. My constituents deserve confidence that USPS services are reliable and operating on schedule,” Congresswoman Dingell said.

Congresswoman Dingell ended the letter with a series of questions for the administration, including a request for explanations of the actions USPS has taken to address disruptions, the factors contributing to those disruptions, and what actions it requires from Congress to achieve long-term financial and operational stability.

“USPS’s role of providing for the American people is more important than ever,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “It is essential that USPS operates transparently, meets delivery standards, and remains accessible to all communities."

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

Dear Postmaster General Steiner:

This letter is regarding the ongoing mail service disruptions in Southeast Michigan. My office has heard from hundreds of constituents about persistent delivery issues, and recently, I have received an increase of outreach related to substantial delays and complete disruptions in mail service. Reliable mail delivery is essential, and the United States Postal Service (USPS) plays a critical role in ensuring connectivity, access, and inclusion for all communities.

Constituents have raised particular concerns surrounding the disruptions to time-sensitive and essential mail, including bills, medications, payments, legal documents, and urgent communications. These deliveries are not only essential for security, but they are also vital for the well-being, health, and livelihood of those who depend on USPS services. With tax season underway and elections approaching, timely and accurate mail delivery is more important than ever. My constituents deserve confidence that USPS services are reliable and operating on schedule.

I request clarity regarding USPS operations in Southeast Michigan and would like written responses to the following questions:

When can my constituents expect mail delivery service to return to normal levels, and what steps is USPS taking to ensure consistent and reliable service going forward?
Under the Delivering for America plan, the Regional Transportation Optimization (RTO) and Local Transportation Optimization (LTO) initiatives have limited mail pickups from post offices more than fifty miles from Regional Processing and Distribution Centers. These changes have contributed to service delays. Additionally, USPS has placed over fifty processing and distribution centers under review, with recommendations to downsize many of them. This would mean that vital mail must travel hundreds of additional miles to be processed and employees could be forced to uproot their lives, find new employment, or retire. Please provide an assessment of the effectiveness of the Delivering for America plan, including these initiatives, and describe what actions USPS has taken to address any resulting service disruptions or shortcomings.
USPS has often attributed delivery issues to inclement weather and road conditions. What additional factors are contributing to these ongoing disruptions, and how does USPS plan to address them?
You have been on the record discussing the financial future of USPS and have suggested reforms that some have characterized as steps toward privatization. How will you ensure that USPS remains a self-financed, independent agency, and what actions or support does USPS require from Congress to achieve long-term financial and operational stability?

USPS’s role of providing for the American people is more important than ever. USPS provides mail and package delivery services that allow Americans to pay their bills, receive medication, and facilitate participation in our democratic process. It is essential that USPS operates transparently, meets delivery standards, and remains accessible to all communities.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and I look forward to your prompt responses.

Dingell, Tlaib Introduce Resolution Recognizing Arab American Heritage Month

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12) introduced a resolution recognizing April as Arab American Heritage Month to honor the history, culture, and achievements of Arab Americans in the United States.

“Arab Americans are part of the fabric of our country and are integral to our communities in Southeast Michigan and across America,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “They have helped shape Michigan’s identity, sharing their culture and traditions with us. They are doctors, teachers, business owners, service members, and most importantly, our neighbors and friends. Every day, Arab Americans help make our state and country better. I’m proud to recognize April as Arab American Heritage Month to honor the continued accomplishments and impact of this community.”

“Arab Americans have made profound and lasting contributions to our nation,” said Congresswoman Tlaib. “As a proud and unapologetic Arab American woman serving in Congress, representing one of the largest Arab American communities in our country, I understand how vital it is that our community is seen, supported, and celebrated. I’m honored to amplify Arab American voices and introduce this resolution recognizing April as Arab American Heritage Month.”

An estimated 3.7 million Americans have Arab roots, with ancestries traced to 22 countries in the Middle East and North Africa, including Lebanon, Syria, Egypt, Palestine, Morocco, Iraq, Jordan, Yemen, Bahrain, Tunisia, Algeria, Sudan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and others.

Arab Americans continue to face discrimination in all sectors of our society. Despite this, Arab Americans have helped shape the culture, history, and economy of the United States in profound ways and deserve to be recognized and celebrated as an essential part of our country.

This legislation is cosponsored by Reps. André Carson (D-IN-07), Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX-07), Maxwell Frost (D-FL-10), Jonathon Jackson (D-IL-01), Stephen Lynch (D-MA-08), Betty McCollum (D-MN-04), Jim McGovern (D-MA-02), Gwen Moore (D-WI-04), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA-07), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), and Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13).

This legislation is endorsed by Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture, American Friends Service Committee, American Muslim Health Professionals, American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), Arab America Foundation, Arab American Association of New York, Arab American Civic Council, Arab American Heritage Council, Arab Caucus of the North Carolina Democratic Party, Arab Resource & Organizing Center (AROC), Bridging Cultures Group Inc., CAIR Action, Center for Civil Society and Democracy, Council on American-Islamic Relations, Emgage MI, Majdal: Arab Community Center of San Diego, MPower Change Action Fund, Muslim Civic Coalition, Muslims United PAC, National Network for Arab American Communities (NNAAC), Philadelphia Arab-American Development Corp, Ramallah Club of Metro Detroit, Syrian Community Network, Yemen Relief and Reconstruction Foundation, and Yemeni American Merchants Association.

The full text of the resolution is available here.

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