ROME TOWNSHIP — For the second time in as many weeks U.S. Rep. Bill Johnson, R-6, visited Lawrence County.

This time the congressman took the time to speak with the student body at Fairland High School about the role the students will play in the future of America.

“There is going to be a day when I walk out of my office in Washington, D.C. and I won’t come back,” Johnson said. “That’s how it will be for all of us currently serving. Then it will be up to the next generation, you students, to not just keep America going but to better it.”

Johnson said that one of his passions is speaking with young people about politics and the governing system of America.

“It is such a joy to see the younger generation engaged,” he said. “Wanting to learn how things work, how they can make an impact. That’s what separates America and makes us the exception on this planet. It isn’t our system. It’s our spirit, our heart and our passion.”

The Congressman also took time to answer questions from the students, several of which were concerned about America’s space program and what the government had planned for NASA in the future.

“I’m glad to hear you’re concerned about this, because it concerns me, too,” Johnson said. “I don’t like that right now if America wants to go to space we have to hitch a ride with the Russians. But, we do have some plans in place. One of those plans that NASA wants to see go into effect would put an American on Mars by the year 2030.”

Other students wanted to know what piece of legislation has had the greatest impact on Ohio’s 6th district.

“I would like to name one that had a positive impact,” Johnson said. “But, I think the one that has impacted our district the most has done so negatively and that’s the Affordable Care Act. Everywhere I go I am met with people concerned about their health care, about losing their primary physician or their previous provider.”

Last week Johnson met with Lawrence County residents and officials at the Snak Shak in South Point. He is gearing up for a November election showdown with Democratic candidate Jennifer Garrison.