With higher costs, it's harder for businesses to grow and create better-paying jobs. A small business owner himself, Mark has created hundreds of jobs right here in our community. By supporting small businesses, getting the government out of the way, and making it easier to get things done, our state can grow and thrive. With real leadership, we can raise wages and build an economy that works for everyone.
Mental health resources are more important today than ever before. Coming off the COVID shutdowns, our children desperately need access to appropriate help. From funding for mental health care at Pine Rest to in-school counseling and expanded mental health treatment beds, Mark Huizenga has worked with both parties to provide much-needed mental health resources for our most vulnerable.
As the son of two teachers, Mark saw early on the importance of investing in our school systems. That's why Mark partnered with Democrats and Republicans to fund record investments in our students and schools. It's also why he opposed the education budget that raided the teacher pension fund and slashed mental health funding for local schools. Instead, Mark sponsored legislation to restore those important funds and backed additional funding for at-risk students most in need. As your voice in Lansing, Mark continues to fight for higher academic standards, more class options, effective teacher bonuses, early literacy intervention, and reading scholarships, so every child has the chance to succeed.
Mark Huizenga has been a leading advocate for public safety throughout his time representing West Michigan. He sponsored legislation to dedicate additional funding for the recruitment and retention of law enforcement officers. He has backed funding for body cams, safety resources, and better training for officers. Endorsed by Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young, Mark has consistently backed the brave men and women who keep our communities safe.
The father of an active-duty military member himself, Mark has been a strong voice for those who so bravely served our country. He helped to secure an additional $8.5 million for the Michigan Veterans Home in Grand Rapids. He's also supported veteran property tax relief, Helmets-to-Hardhats career job training, and mental health resources for our incredible military men and women.
As West Michigan continues to grow, we need to continue to invest in critical infrastructure. Mark has worked hard to secure funding for the replacement of the Fruit Ridge Avenue bridge in Walker, updates to the I-96 interchange, and improvements to local roads and bridges. He remains focused on making sure West Michigan's voice is heard at the capitol, supporting projects that deliver long-term value to our community.
As the Great Lakes State, we have a responsibility to protect and preserve our natural resources. And as a sportsman, I understand firsthand the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship. I was proud to serve as Chair of the Michigan Conservative Energy Forum, where I worked alongside environmental advocates and business leaders to protect Michigan's natural beauty while supporting responsible economic growth. During my time in the legislature, I authored the Natural Resources Trust Fund bill and led the effort to invest record funding to help protect our natural resources.
If a family has to live within its own budget, our government should do the same. Unfortunately, politicians in Lansing and Washington, DC, are quick to throw your money around on anything and everything. This out-of-control government spending has led to inflation, higher costs, and wasted taxpayer dollars. As your voice in the state Senate, Mark has fought for greater transparency and accountability in spending. He'll continue to hold the line and make sure your dollars are being spent wisely - after all, it's your money!
When it comes to their drinking water, families deserve peace of mind. That's why I proudly authored bipartisan legislation that would provide free blood testing for children in high-PFAS communities. In addition to testing, my legislation would provide additional information and access to important resources for those exposed to dangerous PFAS contaminants. This is not a partisan issue. Protecting public health and future generations requires action, and it starts now with these bills.
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Mark began his public service as an appointed member of the Walker Planning Commission. He later served as the Mayor of Walker, which furthered his public leadership. In 2018, he was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives, where he served until the fall of 2021. He now serves as State Senator for the 30th District, following his election in a special race.
Mark Huizenga serves as State Senator for Michigan's 30th District. His professional background includes leadership roles at Helen DeVos Children's Hospital and Spectrum Health, and he now owns a consulting business focused on health care and environmental sustainability.