Rep. Driskell Appointed to Two Committees in Michigan House

State Rep. Gretchen Driskell, D-Saline, will serve on the Commerce Committee and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee during her first term in the Michigan House of Representatives.

"I am excited to have the opportunity to improve transportation infrastructure in my district," Driskell said in a press release. "I have worked locally for many years on our transportation systems, and I am very concerned about the lack of revenue supporting our transportation infrastructure. Our ability to maintain our roads affects school bus routes and public safety."

As mayor of Saline, Driskell said she spent 14 years working with local business owners to promote a pro-business climate, which will be of value on the Commerce Committee.

"Too many Michiganders are still looking for work, and many small businesses are struggling," Driskell said. "Working on the Commerce Committee, I will focus on creating more and better jobs, including those generated by locally owned businesses in my district."

Rep. Adam Zemke, D-Ann Arbor, will serve on the House Appropriations Committee. In addition, Zemke will sit on the Department of Education subcommittee and serve as Democratic vice chairman of the Joint Capital Outlay and Community Colleges subcommittees.

"I am excited to get to work setting the spending priorities for our state and all Michiganders," Zemke said. "I believe that the state's budget is a reflection of our priorities, and I am proud to assume a leadership position for these important subcommittees."

As a member of the education subcommittee, Zemke said he is eager to work on the budget for early childhood education.

"Early childhood education is vital to the long-term educational success of young Michiganders and the overall economic success of our state," Zemke said. "Education is our No. 1 form of economic development, and increasing access to early childhood education offers the greatest return on our investment in a brighter future."