By LINDSAY JANCEK
Communications Director, Office of Representative Jackie Walorski

Rep. Jackie Walorski has announced that she has joined the Great Lakes Task Force, a bi-partisan, bicameral group that works to enhance the economic and environmental well-being of the Great Lakes as part of the Northeast-Midwest Congressional Coalition.

Members of the task force work together to support key regional programs that enhance environmental quality and economic development throughout the Great Lakes basin.

“As a frequent visitor of Lake Michigan, I know firsthand that investments made by the Great Lakes Task Force to preserve and protect these bodies of water will create a long lasting impact both in terms of economic and environmental benefits for future generations to enjoy,” said Walorski.

Founded in the mid-1980s, the Great Lakes Task Forces work together to advocate for policies and programs that enhance our unique natural resource—the Great Lakes. The bipartisan Northeast-Midwest Coalitions have worked for over 30 years to advance the economic competitiveness, environmental quality, and energy interests of this 18-state region.

Rep. Mike Kelly, NEMW Congressional Coalition chairman and Great Lakes Task Force member, welcomed Walorski into the Task Force saying, “Rep. Walorski understands that the Great Lakes are a national treasure and an economic driver for Indiana. The issues we tackle in the Great Lakes Task Force affect millions of citizens and cross party lines. Rep. Walorski has been a longtime champion of the Great Lakes and I look forward to working with her and the rest of the Task Force going forward.”

Major issues of concern to members include home energy assistance to low-income families, assistance to small manufacturers, clean water and safe drinking water revolving fund monies, community development block grants, weatherization assistance, watershed ecosystem restoration, and trade adjustment assistance.