Hernandez to chair powerful legislative committee

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Port Huron’s representative in the Michigan House of Representatives has been picked to serve as chairman of a powerful house committee.  Shane Hernandez of the 83rd district will oversee the House Appropriations Committee come the new year. Hernandez, speaking to WPHM, says that includes the state’s $56 billion dollar budget. He previously chaired a transportation subcommittee in the state house, which he says helped prepare him for the new appropriations position. Hernandez adds that he looks forward to working with newly elected speaker of the house Lee Chatfield and governor-elect Gretchen Whitmer in the new year. As for what’s first on the agenda for the new session, Hernandez says he hopes to tackle road funding. He was first elected to the Michigan House in 2016 and was re-elected this month for a second two-year term. The 83rd district includes the City of Port Huron, Fort Gratiot Township, Burtchville Township, and all of Sanilac County. Hernandez will also be the first Hispanic appointed to lead the appropriations committee.