Ex-Michigan U.S. Rep. Bart Stupak has been named a partner at a top Washington lobbying and law firm.

The Democrat from Menominee played a key role in the passage of President Barack Obama's health care legislation. He didn't seek re-election in 2010.

Venable LLC announced Monday that Stupak will serve as a partner in its legislative and government affairs practice.

Venable has a large stable of former lawmakers and government officials, including ex-Sen. Birch Bayh of Indiana and ex-Transportation Secretary James Burnley.

Stupak served on the House's Energy and Commerce Committee during 18 years in Congress, chairing its subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations.

He's also serving as a fellow at Harvard University's Institute of Politics.