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Congresswoman Hillary Scholten Appointed to the Transportation and Infrastructure and Small Business Committees

January 31, 2023

WASHINGTON, DC –This week, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten was appointed to the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the House Committee on Small Business. Congresswoman Scholten filled one of only seven spots reserved for new Democrats on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. 

“I’m ready to get to work. The people of West Michigan sent me to Washington to deliver for them–and this committee appointment will allow me to do that,”said Congresswoman Scholten. “In West Michigan, there are so many opportunities to improve critical infrastructure, including our airport, public transportation systems, roads, and bridges. I’m committed  to working with my colleagues to deliver not only for MI-03, but for the entire state by upgrading  infrastructure, improving water quality, and moving Michigan forward.” 

“Never complacent with injustice, Representative Hillary Scholten will be a force for good as we look to invest in infrastructure to level the playing field and give more people access to opportunities and jobs,”Ranking Member Larsen said. “Scholten will bring a measured and tactical approach to legislating that will be critical as we implement infrastructure investments. Representative Scholten will also be a steadfast advocate for Michigan’s infrastructure—making sure that Michiganders can rely on safe and resilient transportation systems and clean water infrastructure.”

“I’m also committed to being a champion for the economy in West Michigan, which has long been known for its vibrant small business community. Many global companies started in West Michigan out of garages and storefronts—driven by their local communities and supported by their representatives in government,”said Congresswoman Scholten. “But difficult economic times have taken their toll–just last year, my district alone lost dozens of small businesses. I’m ready to support them on the Small Business Committee this Congress.”

“Entrepreneurs have been leading the way in our pandemic recovery, creating a record number of new businesses and jobs over the past two years. Small firms have made tremendous progress, but there is much more we can do during the 118th Congress to support the American entrepreneurial dream,”said Ranking Member Velazquez. “Rep. Scholten understands that in Western Michigan and communities across the country, small businesses are the backbone of the economy. I'm proud to welcome Rep. Scholten to the committee, and I look forward to working with her closely to advance policies that increase support for small firms.”

Community leaders across West Michigan are ready to work with Congresswoman Scholten on small business and infrastructure issues.

“I’m thrilled that Congresswoman Scholten was placed on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the House Committee on Small Business,”said Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalyn Bliss. “It’s so important that we invest in critical infrastructure and support our small business economy in the city of Grand Rapids—I look forward to working closely with Congresswoman Scholten to deliver for the people of West Michigan.”

“As a member of the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, I know Representative Scholten will be an excellent addition to the Committee on Small Business,”said Guillermo Cisneros, President and CEO of the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. “Small businesses in West Michigan now have a friend and an ally in the U.S. Congress!”

“As a member of the Gerald R. Ford Airport Board I know first hand how critical it is to have a champion in Congress on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee,”said Birgit Kohls. “Congresswoman Scholten will be an incredible advocate for not only for our airport, but other critical infrastructure needs that will continue to drive the economic growth of West Michigan.”