LANSING – State Representative Vicki Barnett (D-Farmington Hills) today announced that House Speaker Andy Dillon (D-Redford Twp.) has named her to the Agriculture and Energy Committee of the National Conferences of State Legislatures (NCSL). Barnett will join lawmakers from across the country to share ideas and pursue cooperation on policy issues.
"This is a great honor and I will use this opportunity to promote the cause of Michigan in a national setting," Barnett said. "Our state is well-positioned to lead on energy and agricultural issues, with our unique geography and established manufacturing base. These industries offer Michigan a means to diversify our economy and create jobs, and we must seize on their opportunity."
Barnett, a member of the House Agriculture Committee, was appointed to represent Michigan on the NCSL's Agriculture and Energy Committee. The committee is one of twelve standing committees for the NCSL, and meets three times a year to allow lawmakers from different states to share ideas on pressing state issues.
Founded in 1975, the NCSL is a bipartisan organization that provides research and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on problems facing states. The organization also advocates for state governments before Congress and other federal agencies.
"Renewable energy holds great promise for Michigan, and our agricultural industry is the envy of the world," Barnett said. "We must continue our efforts to grow these sectors of our economy and learn from other states' experiences."