U.S. Rep. Mike Bishop (R-MI) recently visited a Howell, Mich., construction equipment dealer to address infrastructure, taxes and workforce issues.
Officials said the visit to Ditch Witch Sales of Michigan was coordinated by the Associated Equipment Distributors (AED’s) Government Affairs program, noting the organization serves as the construction equipment industry’s voice in the nation’s capital, undertaking an effort to connect its members with lawmakers throughout the country to better educate elected officials about AED.
“Everywhere in the district I go I am hearing positive comments about the Republican tax cuts,”
Bishop, a member of the House Ways & Means Committee, said. “There seems to be tremendous optimism out there on the economy right now.”
Ditch Witch Sales of Michigan Controller Brian Lassey noted amid the improved confidence his company is investing in equipment and personnel. “Overall the tax changes implemented by the Republican Congress have been good for our industry,” Lassey said.
Bishop said he remains concerned, but hopeful an infrastructure package will come together in Congress but added it comes down to how to pay for it.
Bishop praised Ditch Witch Sales of Michigan for its work in the state and throughout the country. “You create good paying jobs and careers vital to our economy,” he said, acknowledging a struggle with workforce shortages, particularly in the diesel technician area.
“It was nice to have Rep. Bishop here to discuss issues of critical importance to Ditch Witch and the heavy equipment distribution industry,” said Carl Rogers, Ditch Witch Sales of Michigan general manager. “We appreciate him taking time out of his busy schedule to learn more about what we do and in turn we value what he does for Michigan.”