The President’s signing of key bills, including the renaming of Michigan-based federal facilities, underscores bipartisan cooperation and local priorities.
President Approves Laws Honoring Michigan Contributions
On Saturday, January 4, President Biden signed into law 37 pieces of legislation, including H.R. 8667, renaming the Department of Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic in Cadillac, Michigan, as the Duane E. Dewey VA Clinic. This act honors Dewey, a Michigan native and Medal of Honor recipient for his bravery during the Korean War.
Michigan’s congressional delegation celebrated the renaming, emphasizing Dewey’s legacy of courage and sacrifice. “Duane Dewey represents the best of Michigan,” said Representative John Moolenaar, who sponsored the bill. “This dedication will remind future generations of his heroism.”
The clinic’s renaming adds to a series of tributes across the state recognizing local heroes and leaders.
Other Laws Affecting Michigan Residents
Another Michigan-related law, H.R. 9285, designates the Comstock Park Post Office as the Captain Miguel Justin Nava Post Office. Nava, a Marine from Kent County, was killed in Afghanistan in 2010 while serving his country. Representative Hillary Scholten called the designation “a testament to his unwavering dedication to service.”
Beyond Michigan, the President also signed significant national legislation. The Think Differently Database Act (H.R. 670) creates a centralized resource for individuals with disabilities and their caregivers. Meanwhile, the EXPLORE Act (H.R. 6492) enhances public access to federal lands, including several recreational areas in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Bipartisan Support Marks Legislative Session
The breadth of legislation signed highlights bipartisan cooperation. Bills addressing veterans, public lands, and disability resources received widespread support from both sides of the aisle. Notable among these was the Keeping Military Families Together Act (S. 2181), which extends burial benefits for veterans. Michigan Senator Gary Peters was a key sponsor, alongside Alaska Senator Dan Sullivan.
Senator Peters praised the collaborative efforts. “These bills reflect our shared commitment to serving veterans and families across Michigan and the nation,” he said in a statement.
Bills Impact Michigan Tourism Industry
The signing of these bills comes as Michigan continues to leverage federal support for local initiatives. Provisions within the EXPLORE Act are expected to boost tourism in the state, particularly in areas surrounding the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Additionally, the enhanced recognition of Michigan heroes through federal designations bolsters civic pride.
However, critics argue that more urgent legislative priorities, such as addressing Michigan’s aging infrastructure, remain sidelined. Advocacy groups have called for greater federal focus on water safety, citing ongoing concerns over PFAS contamination in Michigan waterways.
Find More Interesting Feature Stories From ThumbWind
- Michigan Features: Unveiling the people, places, and events that make the Great Lake State unique.
- Weird Political News: A sarcastic and insightful take on official news released by government sources.
- Michigan News: News and events of Michigan’s Upper Thumb that are worth knowing.
Your Turn – Like This, or Hate It – We Want To Hear From You
Please offer an insightful and thoughtful comment. Idiotic, profane, or threatening comments are removed. Consider sharing this story. Follow us to have other feature stories fill up your Newsbreak feed from ThumbWind Publications.
