Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of S. 2403, the Retire through Ownership Act. An employee stock ownership plan, or ESOP, is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to build wealth by owning shares in the company they work for. ESOPs often supplement, rather than replace, other retirement savings. Employee ownership gives workers a financial stake in their company's success, which can increase productivity and help build wealth.
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatR+33R shift +5$1.2M raised
Tim Walberg
Representative · Michigan · Republican
Tim Walberg
House Floor
Recent comments in the House
Madam Speaker, literacy is a gateway skill. If students can't read, they can't fully access learning in other subjects, and the consequences can extend far beyond the classroom. According to the National Assessment of Adult Literacy, two-thirds of students who cannot proficiently read by the end of the fourth grade will end up in jail or on welfare. That is tragic. It is time to move away from failed theories and restore evidence- based reading instruction that actually works. Our children deserve an education grounded in what the evidence tells us, not the latest educational fad.
Mr. Speaker, ESOPs provide employees with a meaningful foothold in capital ownership. Studies associate ESOPs with longer employment tenure, increased productivity, and greater wealth creation for employees. S. 2403 makes it easier for businesses to create and maintain ESOPs, helping more workers build retirement wealth through company ownership and encouraging more businesses to adopt ESOPs. By providing greater clarity for businesses, this legislation can expand access to employee ownership and help more Americans share in the success they create.
Biography
Tim Walberg began his public service as a pastor, bringing a community-focused approach to his work in Congress. Elected as the U.S. Representative for Michigan’s 5th district in 2006, Walberg has prioritized job growth, veterans’ services, and regulatory reform. He authored the VA Accountability First Act to improve performance and accountability in veterans’ health care, and he serves on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. Walberg approaches his role with a commitment to transparency and responsiveness, consistently engaging with constituents to address their concerns and represent their interests in Washington.
Education
- M.A. in Communications, Wheaton College Graduate School, Wheaton, IL1978
- B.A. in Religious Education, Fort Wayne Bible College1975
- Diploma in Moody Bible Institute, Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, IL1973
- Attended, undergraduate studies in forestry
Professional History
U.S. Representative
PresentRepresenting Michigan's 5th district
President, Warren Reuther Center for Education and Community Impact
1999–2000Division Manager, Moody Bible Institute
2000–06Member, Michigan House of Representatives
1983–99Minister, Union Gospel Church
1978–82Minister, New Haven Baptist Church
1973–77
Policy Focus
Science, Technology, Communications15%
Health13%
Labor and Employment13%
Energy12%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Tim Walberg's record in Congress.
Opioid Crisis Response
Co-sponsored the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act to address opioid addiction and improve treatment access.
Great Lakes Protection
Secured funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative to combat pollution and invasive species.
Workforce Training
Helped pass the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act to expand workforce training programs.
VA Accountability
Supported the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act to improve oversight at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Committee Assignments
View details →- House Committee on Education and WorkforceChair
- House Committee on Natural Resources
Rep. Tim Walberg FAQ
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