Beyond the Bill: State Rep. Jason Woolford (R-Howell)

Beyond the Bill is a segment that features a Michigan Legislator for Detroit Regional Chamber members to get to know on a more personal level and highlight their legislative priorities.

State Rep. Jason Woolford (R-Howell) is currently serving his first term representing Michigan’s 50th District, encompassing most of Livingston County, including the City of Howell, Fowlerville, and Howell Twp. Before serving in the House, Woolford served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1991 to 1994. After leaving the Marines, Woolford was the Vice President of Sales and Marketing for both a marble and granite distribution company in California and a global pizza dough company. In 2010, he was appointed president of a nonprofit group called Mission Cry – Christian Resources International. 

Woolford is the Chairman of the House Oversight Subcommittee on State and Local Assistance Programs. He also serves on the House Families and Veterans Committee, the House Oversight Subcommittee on Weaponization of State Government, and the full House Oversight Committee. 

When asked what the biggest opportunity to strengthen Michigan’s talent pipeline is, Woolford said his key focus is expanding workforce opportunities for students who choose career and technical education pathways. 

“Not every student’s path leads through a four-year college, and we should support pathways that prepare students for successful, high-demand careers,” he said. “Michigan can strengthen its workforce by expanding opportunities for career and technical education. That’s why I sponsored HB 4658, allowing skilled-trades students to earn a math credit through work-based learning.” 

Woolford also highlighted a bipartisan achievement that he believes reflects the Legislature’s ability to come together around common values. He pointed to the passage of House Bill 4189, which designated the South Grand Avenue bridge over I-96 in Fowlerville as the LCpl Michael W. Hanks Memorial Bridge. He noted that while no memorial can fully repay the sacrifice made by Hanks and his family, the designation ensures that his service and legacy will continue to be remembered for generations. 

“Lance Corporal Michael W. Hanks embodied selflessness and valor,” Woolford said. ” During the Second Battle of Fallujah, he placed the lives of his fellow Marines above his own, making the ultimate sacrifice on November 17, 2004.”

As Chair of the House Oversight Subcommittee on State and Local Assistance Programs, Woolford has spent much of his first term examining government spending and program accountability. 

“One of the most surprising things I’ve learned since taking office is how much waste, fraud, and abuse have been allowed to persist within government programs,” Woolford said. 

He explained that oversight investigations have reinforced his belief that taxpayers deserve a government that is transparent, accountable, and responsible in its stewardship of public resources. That focus on accountability also inspired one of his major legislative priorities, House Bill 4746, which would modernize Michigan’s Bridge Cards with chip-enabled technology and stronger fraud protections. He argues that the proposal would better protect public assistance recipients, reduce fraud, and ensure benefits reach their intended recipients. The legislation, he noted, could generate savings for taxpayers by reducing fraudulent activity and improving program accountability. 

“Criminals are stealing benefits through skimming and electronic theft, harming vulnerable families and taxpayers alike,” Woolford said.  

Woolford believes one of the biggest challenges facing Livingston County is balancing growth with the preservation of the qualities that make local communities unique. He noted that communities across Michigan face similar questions as they pursue economic development while ensuring local residents maintain a meaningful voice in shaping future growth. 

“Livingston County continues to attract residents and businesses, but many also want to protect the small-town character and quality of life,” Woolford said. “As our state works to attract new investment and create economic opportunity, we must also respect the voices of the local officials these communities elect and ensure communities have a meaningful role in shaping their future.” 

When asked about hidden gems in the district, Woolford had difficulty choosing just one. He highlighted destinations including the Historic Howell Opera House, Howell’s Alley District, Fowlerville’s A&W and Old Feed Bag, and the Parshallville Cider Mill. 

“What makes these places truly special is that they each tell a story about the people who call Livingston County home,” he said. “They represent our history, our businesses, our community traditions, and the pride we take in preserving the heart and spirit of what makes our district such a great place to live.”