The State of The Union​

On Tuesday, President Obama unveiled multiple proposals to raise taxes on middle class families in West Michigan and across the nation.  Three of the most damaging tax increases proposed by the President are:

• Enacting a new tax on West Michigan families trying to save for their children's college education.

• Raising taxes on innovators, entrepreneurs, and small business owners that will negatively impact investment and job creation.

• Increasing the "Death Tax" on West Michigan farmers which will make it more difficult for the next generation of local farmers to feed families across America.

Prior to the State of the Union, I posted a short video on Facebook discussing what I was hoping to hear from the President ... unfortunately, that is not what the President delivered.

Following the address, I spoke to CSPAN about the President's rose-colored glasses view of the economy and some of the bipartisan reforms that can and need to be made to Dodd-Frank.  You can watch the short interview here.

Promoting a Culture of Life​

On Thursday, I joined thousands of Americans in a passionate discussion about protecting the lives of the unborn.  Pro-life issues are near and dear to my heart. It was truly inspiring to see so many young people, from West Michigan and across the nation, come to DC and make their voice known on this important issue. 

Additionally, the House passed legislation to prevent taxpayer funding from being used to pay for abortions. Despite promises made by President Obama, taxpayer dollars are being used to pay for more than 1,000 plans on the ObamaCare Exchange that cover abortion. American taxpayers should never be forced to violate their conscience and pay for abortions.  I am hopeful that the Republican-led Senate will consider this legislation accordingly to prevent the misuse of taxpayer dollars.

• ​8 AM: Gear up at the Full Moon Diner & Saloon in Muskegon.  After meeting with constituents and after having a cup of coffee (or two) we plan to hit the sleds at 9. 

• 9:15 AM: Town hall meeting at the VFW in Montague. While this meeting is designed for veterans, all are welcome to attend.

• 11 AM: Stop at Country Dairy in New Era for a town hall meeting and coffee.

• 1 PM Lunch and a town hall meeting at River City Inn in Branch Township

• 5 PM Dinner and a town hall at Chase Creek Smokehouse in Chase

The list for Friday's snowmobile stops will be available shortly on the web at Huizenga.house.gov

​​Floor Update​

Recently, the House has passed several pieces of legislation, in addition to the pro-life legislation, that I wanted to keep you apprised of.

• House Passes Huizenga Jobs Bill: The House passed my legislation to streamline and simplify regulations on small businesses as part of the first jobs package sent to the Senate. This jobs bill is the first piece of legislation to pass the House by a member of the Michigan Delegation and the idea for the bill came from a West Michigan resident. Learn more about how this jobs legislation will impact West Michigan here.

• ​House Votes To Defund President Obama's Executive Amnesty: ​The  Constitution affords Congress, not the President the ability to make law. It’s that simple. This shouldn’t be an argument between Republicans and Democrats; this should be about ensuring the President abides by the separation of powers engrained in the Constitution. The House-passed legislation funds the Department of Homeland Security and defunds the President's unconstitutional executive actions.

• House Overhauls Suicide Prevention Program For Veterans: We cannot fail our men and women in uniform when they come home. We need to make sure our veterans receive the proper care to meet their needs. I am glad the House unanimously passed this needed legislation and I urge the Senate to do the same.  You can read more about this important legislation on Stars & Stripes.

​​Senate Side

Did you know: In one week, the Republican-led Senate has held more amendment votes than the Senate did under Harry Reid's leadership in all of 2014?  It's true and you can get the details here.

Huddle Exclusive​
 
I am working on including more content that can only be found in this newsletter.  Think of it as a "behind the scenes" look at what is happening in Washington and how I am working on behalf of West Michigan. For the first Huddle Exclusive, here is a look at the oath of office I signed after being sworn in.                    
 
Michigan Minute

• GR, Wyoming metro area ranks as 9th fastest growing economy in the nation

• Pure Michigan: Beaverdam residents lead restoration effort that results in GM's Futurliner being placed in the National Historic Vehicle Register

• GVSU Econ Prof projects steady growth for West Michigan Economy in 2015

• West Michigan inspired Huizenga legislation passes U.S. House

• Today Show names Michigan's Sleeping Bear Dunes a must stop

• More than 60 people attend U.S. Academy Night in Grand Haven

• ObamaCare prompts small firms to drop health insurance, limit hiring in West Michigan

• Business experts are upbeat about the manufacturing in Grand Haven