High Country Times

Today, Tim Walberg, Chairman of the Education and Workforce Committee, delivered a statement at a hearing titled "Unleashing America's Workforce and Strengthening Our Economy." The session aimed to address the challenges faced by American workers and businesses over recent years and explore opportunities under President Trump and a Republican-led Congress.

Walberg criticized the Biden-Harris administration's policies, claiming they jeopardized the workforce and economy. He highlighted issues such as job loss during the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation reaching a 40-year high in 2022, and regulatory actions that he argued harmed workers and businesses. "From its first day, the Biden-Harris administration implemented a policy agenda that jeopardized the American workforce and economy," Walberg stated.

He pointed to specific regulations like the National Labor Relations Board’s joint employer rule, which he said threatened franchise business models. He also mentioned a regulation raising salary thresholds for overtime pay exemption, which he claimed would have cost job creators $1.3 billion had it not been halted by a federal court.

Walberg expressed optimism about economic prospects with President Trump's return to office. "With President Trump back in office and a Republican-led Congress, workers and job creators are increasingly optimistic for the return of pro-growth economic policies," he noted. Following Trump's election victory in 2024, small business optimism reportedly surged.

Apple's announcement to invest over $500 billion in U.S. innovation was cited as evidence of renewed economic confidence. Walberg also referenced President Trump's efforts to eliminate wasteful spending through regulatory reviews.

The committee plans to consider legislative proposals aimed at improving worker conditions, reducing burdens on small businesses, addressing workforce shortages, and stimulating growth. Walberg concluded by acknowledging Sheila Havenner's retirement after more than ten years of service as an Information Technology Specialist for the Committee.