LANSING – State Representative Bill LaVoy (D-Monroe) was officially sworn in for his first term as state representative for the 17th District of the Michigan House of Representatives during a ceremony in the House Chamber at noon today.

“Our children are our state’s future,” LaVoy said. “So it is imperative that we make sure they have the best possible education and invest in public schools.”

House Assistant Clerk Rich Brown swore in the 51 Democratic members of the Michigan House in their oath of office in the constitutionally mandated event that kicked off the 2013-2014 legislative session.

The Honorable William F. LaVoy, the representative’s father and a retired Circuit Court judge; wife, Michelle LaVoy; sister, Jill LaVoy; daughters Carolyn LaVoy and Grace Buchanan; father- and mother-in-law Robert and Mildred Degraer; and his legislative assistant, Blane Wetzel, joined LaVoy at the event.

“It’s my job as a state legislator to help improve Michigan’s economy and bring more jobs to the 17th district,” LaVoy said.

Residents with issues or concerns related to state government are encouraged to contact Rep. LaVoy at (517) 373-1530 or by email at billlavoy@house.mi.gov.