LANSING – Speaker Pro Tempore Pam Byrnes (D-Lyndon Township) has been appointed Chair of the House Transportation Committee, a key leadership position that will enable her to help the development of Michigan's mass transit systems and improvement of our infrastructure. Byrnes also was appointed to the Regulatory Reform Committee; the New Economy and Quality of Life Committee; and the Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security Affairs Committee.
"I am honored to help lead my colleagues in the essential work of improving our roads and bridges and creating transportation hubs that will invigorate our business environment," Byrnes said. "We need to find stable funding solutions to fix Michigan's crumbling infrastructure. Investing in a comprehensive transportation system is the key to building a safer, more efficient mechanism that serves the needs of both our residents and businesses."
Byrnes, a former Washtenaw County Road Commissioner, has been a leader in pushing for the examination of new and alternative funding sources for mass transit and public transportation in Michigan. She helped pass legislation last year that enables the development of a privately funded light rail system in Southeastern Michigan.
"I also am excited about serving on the New Economy and Quality of Life Committee in order to help attract and retain talented young people in Michigan," Byrnes said. "As the daughter of a World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient, I am also proud to serve on the committee that honors the memory of all the men and women like my dad who made so many sacrifices for our country. I will work hard to make sure Michigan supports our veterans as well as those who are serving overseas today and their families here at home."