(Chelsea Update would like to thank Katie Carey for the information in this story.)
State Rep. Gretchen Driskell (D-Saline) recently announced today that she will be serving on three House committees: Agriculture, Communications and Technology, and Elections.
In addition, she will be the ranking Democrat on the House Elections Committee.
“I’m excited about the work we’ll be doing in these committees and how they directly relate to my district,” said Driskell. “Whether it’s supporting local farmers in the growing agricultural industry, increasing rural access to broadband services or streamlining participation in our democracy, I’ll be positioned to make a real difference in the lives of my constituents.”
According to a 2012 study administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, total acres of farmland and the real market value of agricultural products sold in Washtenaw County have both dramatically increased, backing other national and state trends. However, there has been no concurrent growth in rural broadband connectivity, often leaving farmers, educators and others lagging behind in technological improvements.
Last year, Driskell was the recipient of the 2014 Broadband Hero Award for her work in upgrading broadband access.
“Too many of our neighbors, local farmers and school children, lack the broadband accessibility necessary to compete in the 21st century,” Driskell said. “Serving on these committees will allow me to shape policy that will improve their lives and expand their economic opportunities.”
Along with her committee assignments, Driskell will continue her voluntary work as the co-founder of the Michigan Automobile Caucus, and a member of both the Michigan Talent Caucus and Progressive Women’s Caucus.
