Walberg Weekly Wrap-Up

Press Release

WALBERG WEEKLY WRAP-UP

The House of Representatives adjourned for an in-district work period at the end of March, and I have enjoyed spending time with many of you during the past two weeks.

Since taking office in January, I have often said one of the best ways I can serve my constituents is to be available, listen and carry our values to Washington.

I am working to serve you. Whether you need help with a federal agency, are trying to find out if federal grants are available for a project or have another need I can help out with, my staff and I are here to serve the residents of south-central Michigan.

The importance of this accessibility was reinforced to me as I traveled across south-central Michigan during the last two weeks.

My staff and I appreciated the attendance and participation at town hall meetings, office hours and coffee hours held during this in-district work period.

It has been a great source of encouragement to have candid conversations with fellow Michiganders about how we can bring more jobs to our state and revitalize our economy.

I also benefited greatly from the two day, seven county Farm Bill Listening Tour that took place this week.

The listening sessions, held throughout the 7th district, were open to farmers, producers and anyone affected by the 2007 Farm Bill and provided me with new and necessary insight as I begin work on this important legislation as member of the Agriculture Committee.

Last year alone the agriculture industry produced roughly $50 billion for Michigan, and the agriculture industry is vital to our state's economic comeback as Michigan is the second most agriculturally diverse state in the country.

I have pledged to work in a bi-partisan manner to produce legislation that benefits Michigan's farmers and develops Michigan's diverse agricultural base.

Part of the Farm Bill dialogue included honest discussion about whether our country needs a temporary worker program.

I believe we must successfully secure America's borders and help farmers cut through the bureaucratic red-tape to allow them to prosper and supply the world with food.

It has been said, "A nation without borders is not a nation," and we must enforce laws already on the books that require those who come here to work to first get a temporary permit and sign our guest book.

All foreign workers must be required to get a temporary, legal permit if they are coming to America to work.

As immigration legislation is considered for the agriculture community, I will continue to push for a secure border, no amnesty and a common-sense work permit system.

At this time, the Farm Bill is still being drafted, and I will work to shape the bill to help south-central Michigan farmers succeed. My office will gladly provide updates as they become available.

As always, my staff and I welcome your input on this and all issues. My D.C. office can be reached at 202-225-6276 and my district office can be reached toll-free at 877-846-6407.

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