Huizenga, Bill RSS Articles

Huizenga Statement Commemorating the 25th Anniversary of 9/11

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Twenty-five years ago, our nation was forever changed. On September 11th, nearly 3,000 people were spending time with their friends, families, and loved ones for what would be the last time. For those of us who saw these tragic events unfold on national tv, the memories remain vivid. We remember watching in disbelief as a second plane struck the World Trade Center. We remember the smoke rising from the Pentagon and learning that another plane had gone down near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Across Southwest Michigan, friends. families, and communities, watched in disbelief. We prayed for our nation, our neighbors, and those directly impacted by his tragic day.

A quarter-century later, an entire generation of Americans know September 11 only as history. We promised to never forget, and part of that promise is ensuring we teach younger Americans about the events that transpired.

Our children and grandchildren should know about the passengers aboard Flight 93 who fought back. They should know about ordinary Americans who helped complete strangers in a time of crisis.

Teaching the next generation also means understanding what happened afterward too.

Across Southwest Michigan and the nation, Americans displayed the flag, gathered in churches, donated blood, and checked on their neighbors. At one of our darkest moments, Americans showed what courage, service, faith, and patriotism looked like.

Today, parents, grandparents, teachers, and veterans across Southwest Michigan have an important responsibility.

We cannot allow September 11th to merely become a chapter in a history book. We owe it to those who never came home, to the heroes who ran toward danger, and to friends and families who carry the memory of their lost loved ones forward. We must tell the next generation what happened that day, how our nation responded, and how every day Americans came together to meet the moment.

Twenty-five years ago, we promised we would never forget. Now, we must make sure they never do.

Huizenga Announces $1.6 Million in New Mental Health Funding for Kalamazoo, Ottawa, and Van Buren Counties

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) announced that Ottawa County, Van Buren County, and Western Michigan University will receive new grant funding through the Department of Health and Human Services to strengthen mental health services and support substance abuse recovery. These federal grant funds are a direct result of legislation supported by Congressman Huizenga.

“Connecting children, parents, and families across Southwest Michigan with mental health resources creates positive outcomes, strengthens our community, and makes Southwest Michigan an even better place to call home,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “I am committed to ensuring that those facing mental health and substance use challenges—some of life’s hardest struggles—have access to the best possible care, support, and resources.”

Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo is being awarded a $599,999 grant for their Family Trauma Assessment of Children and Caregivers work

Ottawa County Community Mental Health in Holland is being awarded a $616,685 grant for mental health & substance abuse services.

Van Buren County Circuit Court in Paw Paw is being awarded a $399,999 grant for mental health and substance abuse treatment expansion and enhancement.

Huizenga, Peters and Bipartisan Fiscal Forum Members Respond to Troubling Debt Milestone

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, U.S. Representatives Bill Huizenga (R-MI) and Scott Peters (D-CA), Co-Chairs of the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum, released the following statements with fellow Members of the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum, as the gross national debt recently surpassed $40 trillion. Annual interest payments on the debt are already approaching $1 trillion, more than the United States is projected to spend this year on defense, Medicare, or Medicaid. Absent meaningful action, the debt is only projected to increase, and this has real consequences for hardworking families.

“Our national debt threatens our economy, drives up interest rates, slows wage growth, and leaves us less prepared for the next emergency. We are in this together, regardless of party label. Addressing our looming fiscal challenges will take both parties, and a bipartisan fiscal commission is a practical step toward doing so.” — Representative Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum

“The national debt is now more than $40 trillion and we borrow nearly $2 trillion every year just to pay our expenses. As government borrowing grows, there is less money available in the system to help San Diegans afford homes, invest in their businesses, or take out loans. Congress must help working people keep up with the cost of living. The first step is to pass the Fiscal Commission Act.” — Congressman Scott Peters (CA-50), Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum

“It is difficult to comprehend the scale of a $40 trillion national debt. What should be easy to understand is that we cannot continue down this path. The cost of servicing our debt is already consuming resources that could be used to grow our economy, strengthen our national security, and improve Americans’ lives. Generations of leaders from both parties share responsibility for the debt we have accumulated, and all must share responsibility for the solution. That means controlling spending, pursuing policies that grow our economy, and addressing the long-term drivers of our debt. The scale of this challenge is immense, but it is not beyond our ability to solve. America is a land of possibility, and we still have the opportunity to put our finances on a stronger foundation. If we make responsible choices today, we can strengthen our economy, expand opportunity, and leave future generations a more prosperous nation.” — Representative Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Vice Chair of the House Budget Committee

“Both parties talk a big game on fiscal responsibility — until they’re the ones who have to govern. Reducing our national debt shouldn’t be seen as a threat to one party’s agenda, but as a once-in-a-generation chance to work together for the good of all Americans. It’s worth remembering: the last time we actually balanced the budget, Republicans controlled Congress and a Democrat sat in the White House. Absent bipartisan legislation, it's only a matter of time before one of the two parties is left holding the bag.” — Representative Jared Golden (ME-02)

“This milestone is a grave reminder of what is at stake if we do not seek legislative solutions to our federal spending crisis. Before long, the next generation will not be able to secure a car or home loan, afford everyday purchases due to inflation, or save for the future. Congress must come together to craft bold solutions, crack down on fraud in our government programs, and put the wellbeing of our children and grandchildren at the forefront of our discussions.” — Representative Blake Moore (UT-01)

“Hard working families across the nation know the bitter reality of living with and paying off debt. Hopefully the painful reality of more than $40 trillion of gross national debt is the wake-up call Congress needs to take a page from our constituents, balance the budget, and restore fiscal stability to Washington.” — Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03)

“This is yet another sobering realization for lawmakers that we can no longer delay in addressing the fiscal state of our nation. Our record level of debt threatens our national security, strains our vital safety net programs, and creates a cascade of negative consequences for Americans from Main Street to Wall Street. Congress must come together expeditiously to pursue bipartisan solutions that responsibly rein in runaway spending before it is too late — the future prosperity of our nation depends on it.” — Representative Steve Womack (AR-03)

"Reaching $40 trillion in national debt is a dark milestone that should concern every American. Democrats and Republicans alike have contributed to this crisis, including doubling the national debt over the past decade. We must make realistic, aggressive changes if we want to ensure that the most critical functions of our government continue to operate for future generations. We cannot solve this crisis without both parties coming together with a true willingness to do whatever it takes. It's time for Congress to take decisive action now." — Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05)

While the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum does not endorse legislation, members of the group are leading a range of proposals that would seek to improve the nation’s fiscal outlook, including the Fiscal Commission Act, Sustainable Budget Act, Budgeting for a Better America Act, Fiscal Contingency Preparedness Act, Fiscal State of the Nation Act, and a resolution that would encourage Congress to achieve and maintain deficits at 3% of GDP. Adopting any or all these reforms would be a meaningful down payment toward fiscal responsibility.

The Bipartisan Fiscal Forum is a group of House members committed to raising awareness of the nation's unsustainable debt and working across the aisle toward a more responsible fiscal future.

House Passes 2 Huizenga Measures in Bipartisan Bill to Help Main Street, Improve Affordability

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Tonight, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Vice Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 6955, the Main Street Capital Access Act. This legislation is designed to strengthen community banks, expand access to credit, and end debanking. Importantly, this bipartisan bill includes two measures authored by Huizenga that strengthen oversight and promote greater competition within the banking system.

"Washington should not be making life more expensive for Americans with needless red tape,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “Less competition means fewer financing options, higher borrowing costs, and less investment on Main Street. By cutting through the red tape this bipartisan bill reduces costs and helps community lenders make life more affordable for American families. Lastly, I am glad this legislation includes my provisions to increase accountability and reduce concentration across our financial system.”

Access to affordable credit is critical for families buying a home, farmers investing in their operations, entrepreneurs starting a business, and employers creating jobs. The Main Street Capital Access Act removes unnecessary regulatory burdens on community banks, encourages the formation of new community banks, and allows local lenders to devote more resources to making loans.

Earlier today, Congressman Huizenga spoke on the floor in support of the Main Street Capital Access Act. The video of his remarks is available below.

The Main Street Capital Access Act incorporates two bills authored by Huizenga. The FDIC Board Accountability Act that strengthens governance and accountability at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, as well as the Enhancing Bank Resolution Participation Act, which broadens participation in failed-bank resolutions to promote competition, protect depositors, and reduce concentration within the banking system. Together, these measures reflect Huizenga's continued work to ensure federal policy supports community financial institutions and the small businesses and families they serve.

The Main Street Capital Access Act passed the House by a vote of 270-155 and now advances to the Senate for consideration.

Huizenga Leads Bipartisan Effort to Strengthen Defense Cooperation with Key Allies Through UNLOCK AUKUS Act

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI), a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, announced the introduction of H.R. 9517, the bipartisan UNLOCK AUKUS Act, to strengthen the AUKUS security partnership by providing the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom greater flexibility to collaborate on advanced defense technologies while preserving critical national security safeguards.

The legislation builds on Huizenga's longstanding efforts to strengthen AUKUS and ensure America's closest allies can work together more effectively to meet evolving security challenges. By removing an outdated statutory restriction that no longer reflects today's strategic environment, the bill strengthens cooperation among trusted partners while maintaining strong protections for America's most sensitive defense technologies.

"As the Chinese Communist Party rapidly expands its military capabilities, the United States must ensure our closest allies can innovate and work alongside us without unnecessary bureaucratic barriers,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “The UNLOCK AUKUS Act strengthens one of the world's most important security partnerships, meets the security challenges of today, and delivers a force multiplier to the AUKUS partnership."

“AUKUS provides a once-in-a-lifetime security enhancement for all three nations. Pillar I is happening in real-time in the Indo-Pacific and in our shipyards, and Pillar II is making exciting new progress with the recent announcement of collaboration between the three nations on payloads for undersea unmanned vessels,” said Congressman Joe Courtney (D-CT). “Through the UNLOCK AUKUS Act, Congress is building on that announcement by streamlining further collaboration on advanced missile capabilities in Pillar II. I’m excited to partner with my colleagues to introduce this bipartisan and bicameral bill, which reaffirms the clear-eyed and stalwart commitment by both parties in Congress to make AUKUS a success.”

“Although the AUKUS Partnership has improved defense cooperation with our Australian and British allies through the production of advanced technology like the hypersonic weaponry being developed at Crane Naval Surface Warfare Center in Indiana’s Eighth District, we must do better,” said Congressman Mark Messmer (R-IN). “I am proud to support Rep. Huizenga’s UNLOCK AUKUS Act, which will continue these important efforts, while also removing bureaucratic red tape that is preventing America from reaching our highest potential in our national defense strategic game plan.”

"Strengthening the AUKUS pact will keep Americans safe and strengthen our values-based alliances with the UK and Australia," said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). "The bipartisan, bicameral UNLOCK AUKUS Act unleashes the full power of AUKUS for collaboration on 21st century defense systems to protect against our adversaries in the Indo-Pacific, while providing good jobs and supporting American businesses."

"The Chinese Communist Party is working at lightning speed to advance its military apparatus, and it does not play fair,” said Congressman Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX). “The UNLOCK AUKUS Act empowers the United States and its allies to meet that generational challenge head-on by removing burdensome red tape that slows the transfer of critical military technologies. I urge my colleagues to support this important bill that will strengthen crucial partnerships like the AUKUS defense pact and deter the CCP's malign activity in the Indo-Pacific and beyond."

“The strength of our AUKUS partnership is critical to deterring an increasingly aggressive China and countering new, emerging threats in the Indo-Pacific,” said Congressman Pat Ryan (D-NY). “This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would streamline collaboration with our partners and ensure we collectively maintain our technological edge. As co-chair of the House Defense Modernization Caucus, this is simple, smart bill to cut through red tape and accelerate innovation.”

Announced in 2021, AUKUS is a trilateral security partnership between the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom that is designed to deepen defense cooperation and promote stability throughout the Indo-Pacific. Pillar I focuses on Australia's acquisition of conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines. Congressman Huizenga championed this provision, the AUKUS Submarine Transfer Authorization Act, which was signed into law in December 2023. Pillar II accelerates cooperation on advanced capabilities including artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, cyber capabilities, electronic warfare, hypersonics, undersea technologies, and other emerging defense systems.

To support that mission, Congress previously established a streamlined export framework that allows many defense technologies to be shared more efficiently among the three nations. However, current law automatically excludes all technologies controlled under the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), even if there is intent to transfer such articles under AUKUS. The UNLOCK AUKUS Act removes that blanket statutory prohibition and instead allows the President to determine which technologies should remain excluded based on evolving national security considerations.

Huizenga introduced the legislation alongside Representatives Mark Messmer (R-IN), Joe Courtney (D-CT), Michael McCaul (R-TX), Pat Ryan (D-NY), Blake Moore (R-UT), and Gabe Amo (D-RI). The Senate companion is led by Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Tim Kaine (D-VA).

The full text of the UNLOCK AUKUS Act is available here.

Huizenga, Olszewski, Kim, Thompson, and Bilirakis Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen American Manufacturing

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Huizenga (R-MI), Congressman Johnny Olszewski (D-MD), Congresswoman Young Kim (R-CA), Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), and Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) announced the introduction of H.R. 9097, the American Manufacturing Revitalization Exchange Program Act. This bipartisan legislation will help train the next generation of technicians, machinists, engineers, and production specialists for the US manufacturing workforce. By 2033, American manufacturing will require 3.8 million additional workers, yet nearly half of these positions may remain unfilled, resulting in an economic cost of nearly $1 trillion by 2030.

Specifically, the American Manufacturing Revitalization Exchange Program Act establishes an international exchange program, known as the American Manufacturing Revitalization Exchange Program, at the State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Under this program, the State Department will send eligible Americans working in manufacturing fields abroad for hands-on manufacturing training and certifications in allied countries with deep manufacturing expertise, who then return to the U.S. with new skills to help meet the labor skill shortage in the U.S. manufacturing industry and aid in reshoring efforts.

“Having a strong manufacturing sector is critical to our economy, national security, and ability to compete globally,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “By focusing on advanced manufacturing in sectors such as automotive, semiconductors, and aeronautics, this bipartisan legislation will help reshore American manufacturing, equip American workers with in-demand skills, and rebuild our nation’s middle class.”

"Strengthening American manufacturing starts with investing in our workforce," said Congressman Olszewski, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. "I'm proud to help lead this effort to give workers greater access to the tools and experience they need to compete and succeed in a global economy. This will keep America competitive, strengthen our economic prosperity, and ensure our workforce is ready for the next generation of manufacturing."

“American manufacturing and its workforce are essential to our economy and the growth of industries around our nation," said Congressman Thompson. "This legislation expands opportunities for Pennsylvanians, allowing them to upskill and share their expertise with others. This will ensure future generations are prepared for the workforce and equipped with the right skills, maintaining America’s competitive edge as we move into the future."

“America’s manufacturing industry is facing a critical workforce shortage at a time when strengthening domestic production has never been more important,” said Congressman Bilirakis. “Our bill will give Americans the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on training from our allies, bring those skills back home, and help support our nation’s reshoring efforts. This program will also highlight the exciting opportunities available in modern manufacturing and help inspire more Americans to pursue these rewarding careers."

Support for the American Manufacturing Revitalization Exchange Program Act is strong and growing. Organizations that support this Huizenga-led effort include the United Steelworkers, National Association of Manufacturers, Alliance for International Exchange, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE-USA), Dirac, Inc, MISUMI Americas, BMW Group, Wallenius Wilhelmsen, LIFT, Foundation for American Innovation, Automation Alley, Additive Manufacturing Coalition.

“Manufacturers across the country are leading efforts to upskill and train the manufacturing workforce of the future. Rep. Huizenga’s American Manufacturing Revitalization Exchange Program Act would bolster the industry’s existing efforts to develop America’s manufacturing workforce by expanding workers’ training opportunities via international partnerships—bolstering investment and production capacity here at home.” Charles Crain, Managing Vice President of Policy at the National Association of Manufacturers, and Gardner Carrick, Chief Program Officer of the Manufacturing Institute

"We at Automation Alley appreciate Rep. Huizenga highlighting the need to focus on providing essential training for our critically important manufacturing workforce. Our manufacturers, and their workers, are the backbone of the State of Michigan's economy and it is imperative that our manufacturing workforce has the skills necessary to compete globally." Tom Kelly, CEO Automation Alley

“The USW supports increasing workers’ access to information about manufacturing processes, including hands-on experience, through the American Manufacturing Revitalization Exchange Program Act of 2026. This program will allow workers to learn from their counterparts overseas and bring that knowledge back to the United States, helping build bridges between workers and making our domestic industries stronger.” Roy Houseman, Legislative Director and Assistant to the President, United Steelworkers

“The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers-USA (IEEE-USA) “endorses this legislation to continue revitalizing the science and technology workforce that has long driven American innovation. As manufacturing in critical sectors like robotics and semiconductors shifted overseas, our domestic workforce pipeline declined in tandem. Reclaiming our leadership in advanced manufacturing requires an economy that creates high-paying jobs for all workers, not just those with PhDs. By helping rebuild a highly skilled manufacturing workforce, this bill ensures the United States remains the global leader of science and technology innovation.” Nils Smith, Vice President, IEEE-USA

"The Alliance for International Exchange is pleased to endorse the American Revitalization Manufacturing Exchange Program Act, which creates an outbound exchange for American leaders in manufacturing to gain critical skills from U.S. allies and trade partners. This bill not only creates a public diplomacy program to fill a gap in American manufacturing, but also the program will also reinforce U.S. ties with partners globally while gaining innovative and necessary know-how in this space." Mark Overmann, Executive Director, Alliance for International Exchange

A resilient U.S. manufacturing sector requires a workforce that understands the complexities of a global supply chain. This Act is a forward-thinking investment in our most valuable resource: people. By upskilling U.S. citizens in allied countries, we’re building a sophisticated labor pool capable of integrating advanced technologies and securing our industrial base for decades to come. By establishing an exchange program with global allies, we’re enabling American talent to exchange ideas and technical expertise with the best manufacturing minds in the world. This Act ensures that our workforce returns home with a global perspective and specialized skills. To lead the next industrial revolution, we must be proactive in how we train the next generation. Supporting the 'American Manufacturing Revitalization Exchange Program' Bill allows us to bridge the skills gap by leveraging American strengths abroad. It’s a win-win that brings world-class knowledge back to U.S. soil, fueling the specialized talent we need to drive innovation.” Dave Evans, President & CEO of MISUMI Americas and CEO of Fictiv

"You can ship machines across an ocean, but you can't ship know-how. That has to be learned, captured, and passed down. The expertise that built the arsenal of democracy walked out the door with the jobs, and no amount of capital investment will rebuild our industrial base until we rebuild that knowledge. Representative Huizenga's bill creates a serious mechanism to bring back the production knowledge America gave away over the last forty years. Dirac is proud to support legislation that recognizes our shop floors as the foundation of American prosperity." Filip Aronshtein, Co-founder and CEO, Dirac, Inc.

“Advancing the skills of our workforce is a priority for BMW Group. For 15 years, we have been preparing students for a future in advanced manufacturing through several recruiting programs, including our most renown, the BMW Scholars Program at BMW Plant Spartanburg. We welcome Congressman Huizenga’s “American Manufacturing Revitalization Exchange Program Act” which will help support the training needed to develop a skilled and talented workforce for U.S. Manufacturing.” Astrid Ruggeri, Director, U.S. Trade Policy, BMW Group

“A skilled workforce and resilient supply chains are foundational to competitive manufacturing. As an integrated maritime, logistics, and industrial company, Wallenius Wilhelmsen is not only a transporter of goods, but an active industrial player with deep operational expertise. We see strong value in initiatives that strengthen U.S. manufacturing through practical skills development, hands-on training, and collaboration with global allies.” Wallenius Wilhelmsen

Huizenga Introduces Deport the Terrorists Act

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) announced the introduction of the Deport the Terrorists Act. This landmark legislation would overhaul deportation proceedings for naturalized American citizens who are convicted of financing, materially supporting, or outright committing acts of terror.

“American citizenship is one of our nation's greatest privileges,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “If a naturalized citizen is convicted of committing, supporting, or financing acts of terror, they should lose their citizenship and swiftly be deported from the United States."

Under current law, a naturalized citizen cannot be removed even for the most violent acts of terror without first going through the slow and complex denaturalization process. This loophole has allowed individuals who embraced terrorist ideologies after gaining citizenship to remain shielded from swift removal.

Examples of naturalized citizens who committed acts of terrorism include one that took place in Michigan and one that took place in Virginia 2026.

Ayman Muhammad Ghazali, a naturalized citizen from Lebanon, carried out an attempted mass-casualty attack on Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, MI, in March 2026, ramming his truck full of explosives into the synagogue and opening fire on congregants. He purposely targeted the Jewish community and the largest Jewish temple in MI due to his Hezbollah militant ideology. This individual was killed by security at Temple Israel.

Mohamed Bilor Jalloh, a naturalized citizen from Sierra Leone, became radicalized with ISIS views while serving in the US Army National Guard. In 2016, Jalloh pleaded guilty to attempting to aid ISIS fighters with money and weapons and was sentenced to 11 years in prison but was released early in 2024. On March 12, 2026, he shot and killed ROTC Professor Lt. Col. Brandon Shah and wounded two others at Old Dominion University in Virginia. This individual would have been deported under the Deport the Terrorists Act and unable to commit acts of terror in Virginia.

Khalid Ouazzani, a naturalized citizen from Morocco, swore allegiance to Al-Qaida and sent tens of thousands of dollars to the terror organization in 2008. In May 2010, Ouazzani pleaded guilty to providing material support to Al-Qaida. In 2026, the DOJ started the denaturalization process. This individual would be deported under the Deport the Terrorists Act.

Salah Osman Ahmed, a naturalized citizen from Somalia, traveled abroad to take up arms with al-Shabaab. In 2009, he pleaded guilty to providing material support to terrorists. In 2026, the DOJ started the denaturalization process. This individual would be deported under the Deport the Terrorists Act.

The Deport the Terrorists Act automatically revokes the citizenship of any naturalized US citizen convicted of a terrorism-related offense and makes such individuals immediately removable by creating new grounds for deportation for convictions involving terrorism, including conspiracy and solicitation.

Lastly, the Deport the Terrorists Act directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to prioritize the removal of any individual whose citizenship is revoked due to a terrorism-related conviction.

Huizenga, Correa, Walberg Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Mental Health Outcomes, Prevent Veteran Suicide

Wed, 13 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) and Congressman Lou Correa (D-CA) introduced the Veterans Suicide Prevention and Care Enhancement Act, bipartisan legislation aimed at improving mental health outcomes for veterans and helping reduce veteran suicide rates by expanding access to evidence-based suicide prevention care. The legislation seeks to increase the number of Community Care Network providers who complete evidence-based suicide prevention training administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs while also creating a publicly available preferred provider list to help veterans identify providers who best meet their needs.

Under current law, providers in local communities outside the VA healthcare system may participate in the Veterans Health Administration Community Care Network without completing VA-administered suicide prevention training. The Veterans Suicide Prevention and Care Enhancement Act encourages greater participation in that training and improves transparency for veterans seeking care options in their communities. Joining Representatives Huizenga and Correa as original cosponsors are Congressman Tim Walberg (R-MI), Congressman Mike Lawler (R-NY), and Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ).

“When our servicemembers come home at the end of their service, our responsibility to them does not end,” said Congressman Huizenga. “Too many veterans continue to struggle with invisible wounds after returning home, and they deserve access to the highest quality mental health care available, wherever they receive it. This bipartisan legislation will help connect veterans with providers who have completed evidence-based suicide prevention training and improve transparency for veterans and families seeking care.”

“All gave some, and some made the ultimate sacrifice. Our veterans were willing to give their lives to defend American freedom and democracy. It is now our moral duty to provide them with the highest-quality mental health care,” said Congressman Correa. “I joined Representative Bill Huizenga in introducing the Veteran Suicide Prevention and Care Enhancement Act because veterans face a high risk of suicide. Not all wounds are visible, and we need to make sure that medical care is available to meet their needs. It is the least we can do to thank veterans for their sacrifice.”

“Our nation’s veterans have sacrificed so much for our freedoms, yet too many of these brave men and women struggle in silence,” said Congressman Walberg. “I am proud to join Representatives Huizenga and Correa on this bipartisan legislation, which will equip providers with the proper training to deliver high-quality mental health care to America's veterans so that we can honor these heroes’ service with the care, dignity, and compassion they so rightfully deserve.”

"Expanding suicide prevention training for Community Care Network providers connects veterans with better-informed care, said Congressman Mike Lawler. “This also inspires greater confidence in our veterans that their providers are prepared to recognize warning signs and respond with the support they need. Our veterans are more than deserving of access to providers who understand the unique challenges they face after serving our country,”

According to the VA’s 2025 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, 6,398 veterans died by suicide in 2023, an average of 17.5 veterans per day. The report also found that 61% of veterans who died by suicide in 2023 had not received VA healthcare services in the year prior to their death.

The Veterans Suicide Prevention and Care Enhancement Act is supported by organizations including the American Legion Department of Michigan and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

“The Department of Michigan American Legion supports efforts to reduce veteran suicides. The Veterans Suicide Prevention and Care Enhancement Act is one step in the direction of lowering veteran suicides by providing the proper training to those that provide care for veterans in the community.” Tim Poxson, American Legion Department of Michigan

Huizenga Votes to Lower Costs for Southwest Michigan Families and Farmers

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) released the following statement after voting in support of a five-year farm bill. Specifically, this legislation reduces input costs, strengthens risk management tools, and expands food processing capacity, all while investing in the rural infrastructure that supports Southwest Michigan’s economy and agricultural community.

Importantly, this legislation includes provisions from Huizenga’s bipartisan Protecting America’s Orchardists and Nursery Tree Growers Act, which will strengthen and expand the Tree Assistance Program to better protect growers when severe weather, disease, or other losses threaten long-term production.

“This farm bill will help lower costs for the farmers who grow our food and the American families they help feed,” said Congressman Huizenga. “For years, family farms and specialty crop growers across Michigan have faced challenges that threatened their livelihood. This legislation delivers relief by giving farmers the certainty they deserve as well as the tools to cut costs, expand local processing, and strengthen domestic supply chains from the ground up. At the end of the day, this legislation will lower prices at the grocery store, help farmers thrive, and make life more affordable and healthy for families across Southwest Michigan.”

Key provisions in the House-passed farm bill include:

Lowers grocery costs & improves health outcomes by focusing on nutrition science and access to healthier foods
Invests in rural America—broadband, water, and infrastructure to lower the costs of local farm, small business, and household utility bills
Modernizes risk management for specialty crop producers
Backs specialty crops with $1B+ for research, competitiveness, and pest/disease research
Cuts input costs by advancing precision agriculture
Expands food processing capacity to strengthen supply chains
Strengthens domestic sourcing to support American agriculture
Protects U.S. farmland with CFIUS review for buyers tied to China, Russia, Iran, North Korea

Huizenga Introduces Legislation to Stop China and Russia from Stealing American AI Models

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) announced the introduction of H.R. 8283, the Deterring American AI Model Theft Act. Companies such as OpenAI, Google, and Anthropic have all indicated publicly that they have faced “distillation” attacks from State-backed Chinese AI companies. These attacks systematically extract and steal critical data, such as model weights, architectures, and other technical characteristics, that foreign adversaries use to build their own AI models for cheap while bypassing compute restrictions. Distillation attacks are the latest avenue of Chinese economic coercion and theft of U.S. intellectual property and poses a direct threat to the national security of the United States and the economic competitiveness of U.S. companies.

The Deterring American AI Model Theft Act addresses this problem by authorizing discretionary sanctions, creating a name and shame list of AI thieves, and approving a pathway for the U.S. State Department to interphase with private industry to share best practices and study attacks to strengthen defense.

“Model extraction attacks are the latest frontier of Chinese economic coercion and theft of US intellectual property,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “American AI models are demonstrating transformative cyber capabilities, and it is critical we prevent China from stealing these technological advancements. I am proud to champion the Deterring American AI Model Theft Act to advance the third pillar of the Trump Administration’s AI Action Plan. We must be more proactive in stopping the circumvention of US export controls by foreign adversaries.”

“American AI leadership rests on two pillars: the ingenuity of our innovators and the resolve, including of our government, to safeguard what our innovators build from those who seek to steal it. The Deterring American AI Model Theft Act of 2026 establishes a clear—and sorely needed—framework to identify foreign actors extracting American models, hold them accountable through existing authorities, and strengthen coordination between innovators and government. We commend Representative Huizenga for introducing it and urge the House Foreign Affairs Committee (HFAC) to advance it.” - Meredith Potter, Executive Director, American Security Fund

Distillation, when carried out with the approval of the AI model owner, is a legitimate and valuable tool for research and innovation. This bill protects such activity by disentangling it from illicit “model extraction attacks.”