Indian-American appointed minority floor leader in Michigan

Indian-American Sam Singh, a two-term legislator, has been appointed as the Democratic Floor leader in the Michigan State Assembly in the US.

This is his first term as the Democratic Floor leader.

Republicans form the majority in the State.

"My position works very closely with the Republican floor leader to make sure, as we discuss policy, that ideas from both sides of the aisle are being heard, and work closely with my Democratic colleagues to make sure our ideas and voices are heard here at the Capitol," 43-year-old Singh was quoted as saying by the local The State News.

Singh's parents immigrated to Michigan from India in the 1960s for a better life and an opportunity for the American Dream.

Before serving in the legislature, Singh was elected to the East lansing City Council at the age of 24. He was also its Mayor for one term.

According to The State News, Singh plans to reintroduce a bill that grants money for higher education scholarships.

He also hopes funding for higher education will not be cut during this legislative session.

Singh said he will also reintroduce the expansion of the Elliott-larsen Civil Rights Act to members of the lGBT community — the expansion will prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, identity and gender.