Bennet Selected to Serve on Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP)
Strong Background as Education Innovator, Leadership in Health Care Debate Cited as Key Reasons for Influential Committee Assignment
Michael Bennet, U.S. Senator for Colorado, was selected today to serve on the influential Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) where he will continue to make the case for meaningful health care reform and share the real-world experiences of teachers from across the state to improve the lives of Colorado’s working families. Bennet’s capacity for innovative thinking and common-sense reform were cited as key reasons for the committee assignment.
The Senate HELP Committee, led by Chairman Tom Harkin and Ranking Member Mike Enzi, has broad jurisdiction over the operation of the country’s health care, schools, employment and retirement programs. It is also responsible for oversight of the U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services, Education and Labor.
“Colorado’s parents and teachers will now have a strong voice when it comes to the issues that affect their kids and their classrooms,” said Bennet. “With this assignment, Colorado has a unique opportunity to help build a healthy and educated workforce that can compete in the new economy.”
Senate HELP Committee Chairman Tom Harkin cited Bennet’s strong advocacy on behalf of Colorado’s working families and innovative work in the Denver Public Schools as predictors of success in his new post.
“Michael’s leadership in Colorado changed the culture of a struggling school district so that it became a place where the whole community worked together to create innovative pathways towards excellence,” said Chairman Harkin. “He now brings this unique experience and advocacy for working families to the Senate HELP Committee where the policies we consider touch the daily lives of all Americans. His know-how will be invaluable as we work toward quality, affordable health care this year.”
“Just as importantly, his hands-on experience reforming a public school system makes him a go-to Senator when it comes to making sure every child in America has the opportunity to receive a great public education,” added Chairman Harkin.
Said U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, “Michael is uniquely qualified for this appointment and I look forward to working with him. He served the people of Colorado well as a nationally respected superintendent of the Denver Public School District and his knowledge and experience will be an asset to our country while serving on the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions committee. We are lucky to have someone with his passion, knowledge and commitment joining the Committee.”
In accordance with Senate procedures, Bennet will renounce his seat on the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. He will maintain his seats on the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry; the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs; and the Senate Special Committee on Aging.