Source: House Representative Raul R. Labrador (R-ID, 1st)
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congresswoman Barbara Comstock (R-Va.), Congressman Peter King (R-N.Y.), Immigration and Border Security Subcommittee Chairman Raúl Labrador (R-Idaho), and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) have introduced the Criminal Alien Gang Member Removal Act (H.R. 3697) to combat gang violence by criminal aliens and enhance public safety.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has found that membership of violent transnational gangs is comprised largely of foreign-born nationals. In order to protect Americans from these violent gangs, the Criminal Alien Gang Member Removal Act ensures that alien gang members are kept off our streets by barring them from coming to the United States and detaining and removing them if they are criminal gang members or participate in gang activity.
Additionally, the bill ensures that criminal alien gang members are not eligible for immigration benefits, such as asylum, special immigrant juvenile status, and temporary protected status, which are reserved for those around the world most in need of protection.
Representatives Comstock, King, and Labrador and Chairman Goodlatte issued the statements below on today’s introduction of the Criminal Alien Gang Member Removal Act.
Congresswoman Comstock: “In Northern Virginia there have been at least eight brutal murders tied to the transnational MS-13 gang since last November. That is unacceptable, and this legislation will help get these violent gang members off our streets. MS-13 preys upon and intimidates those who have come to our country to seek a better life. The Criminal Alien Gang Member Removal Act will give important tools to law enforcement like the Northern Virginia Regional Gang Task Force so that they can effectively do their jobs to deport alien gang members. I look forward to working with my colleagues to see this important legislation passed so we are safer as a community, Commonwealth, and nation.”
Congressman King: “On Long Island, gangs like MS-13 must be crushed. We cannot tolerate innocent people in our communities being slaughtered, butchered and intimidated by these criminals. This important legislation will assist law enforcement in keeping our communities safe from their reach and influence.”
Congressman Labrador: “The most important function of the federal government is to keep our communities safe and secure. Those who illegally enter our country and participate in criminal gangs need to be arrested and deported immediately. They should not be allowed to stay in our country to victimize innocent Americans. The bill we’re introducing today will make our communities safer by making it easier to deport alien gang members. We are taking an important part of the Davis-Oliver Act, which I introduced, to strengthen our security. I’m proud to join Chairman Goodlatte, Rep. Comstock, and Rep. King in introducing today’s bill and I will work hard for its passage.”
Chairman Goodlatte: “The primary duty of the federal government is to keep Americans safe. We must ensure our nation’s immigration laws are not exploited by dangerous gang members, like MS-13, seeking to bring crime and illicit activity to our communities. The Criminal Alien Gang Member Removal Act makes it clear that criminal alien gang members are not eligible to come to the United States and ensures that they are kept off our streets. I thank Representatives Comstock, King, and Labrador for introducing this targeted, common sense bill to protect our communities and look forward to its consideration on the House floor next week.”
The Unpopular Truth
Tuesday, September 12, 2017
Kuster Statement on Alleged Racial Attack in Claremont
Source: House Representative Ann Kuster (D-NH, 2nd)
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the following statement on the ongoing investigation into an alleged racially motivated attack in Claremont, NH:
"Like many others, I've been outraged and sickened by the chilling images on social media and in the news of a young boy whose neck has been gouged by a rope. No parent can look at this photo without feeling a pit in their stomach. The reports that this was potentially a race-based act of violence underscores the need to gain a full understanding of what happened. I'm encouraged that Governor Sununu is offering the resources of the Attorney General's office to the Claremont Police Department to assist in the investigation of this matter. We must be vigilant in always combating hate and intolerance wherever it appears. New Hampshire communities must be safe and healthy environments for all our citizens."
Read more about this by clicking HERE
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the following statement on the ongoing investigation into an alleged racially motivated attack in Claremont, NH:
"Like many others, I've been outraged and sickened by the chilling images on social media and in the news of a young boy whose neck has been gouged by a rope. No parent can look at this photo without feeling a pit in their stomach. The reports that this was potentially a race-based act of violence underscores the need to gain a full understanding of what happened. I'm encouraged that Governor Sununu is offering the resources of the Attorney General's office to the Claremont Police Department to assist in the investigation of this matter. We must be vigilant in always combating hate and intolerance wherever it appears. New Hampshire communities must be safe and healthy environments for all our citizens."
Read more about this by clicking HERE
House Accepts Bipartisan Amendment To Increase Women In Apprenticeships
Source: House Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL, 8th)
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congresswomen Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Elise Stefanik (R-NY), and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) announced that the House has passed their bipartisan amendment to increase the number of women in apprenticeships and improve skills training.
The lawmakers, all members of the House Education and the Workforce Committee, are longtime supporters of increasing opportunities for women as a step to help close the skills gap. The amendment increases funding for Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations (WANTO) grants.
“In my home state of Oregon, I have seen how apprenticeships can help women enter the building trades and lead to success in the field,” said Congresswoman Bonamici. “Our bipartisan amendment will increase funding for the Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations grants, which will help more employers and organizations train, place, and retain women in apprenticeships and good-paying jobs. Because of this funding, tradeswomen in Oregon will have additional support and assistance getting the skills they need to advance their careers.”
“Apprenticeships are valuable programs that provide career opportunities in high paying technical fields, and this added funding will help more women find careers in advanced manufacturing, transportation or construction,” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “By delivering this funding to programs in our district and across the country, we can help support women entering these crucial fields and support important apprenticeship programs that train our workers. I thank Congresswoman Bonamici for her leadership on this issue.”
“Apprenticeships play a vital role in our economy through strengthening the middle class and it’s essential that we expand these opportunities to more women,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. “By increasing funding for Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations grants, we can help more women develop the in-demand skills they need for good-paying, family-sustaining jobs.”
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congresswomen Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Elise Stefanik (R-NY), and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) announced that the House has passed their bipartisan amendment to increase the number of women in apprenticeships and improve skills training.
The lawmakers, all members of the House Education and the Workforce Committee, are longtime supporters of increasing opportunities for women as a step to help close the skills gap. The amendment increases funding for Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations (WANTO) grants.
“In my home state of Oregon, I have seen how apprenticeships can help women enter the building trades and lead to success in the field,” said Congresswoman Bonamici. “Our bipartisan amendment will increase funding for the Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations grants, which will help more employers and organizations train, place, and retain women in apprenticeships and good-paying jobs. Because of this funding, tradeswomen in Oregon will have additional support and assistance getting the skills they need to advance their careers.”
“Apprenticeships are valuable programs that provide career opportunities in high paying technical fields, and this added funding will help more women find careers in advanced manufacturing, transportation or construction,” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “By delivering this funding to programs in our district and across the country, we can help support women entering these crucial fields and support important apprenticeship programs that train our workers. I thank Congresswoman Bonamici for her leadership on this issue.”
“Apprenticeships play a vital role in our economy through strengthening the middle class and it’s essential that we expand these opportunities to more women,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. “By increasing funding for Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations grants, we can help more women develop the in-demand skills they need for good-paying, family-sustaining jobs.”
King Introduces Bill to Return Land Wrongly Taken From Winnebago Tribe
Source: House Representative Steve King (R-IA, 4th)
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Steve King has introduced H.R. 3688, the “Winnebago Land Transfer Act of 2017”. King’s legislation seeks to restore several tracts of land located in Woodbury and Monona Counties to the Winnebago Tribe. In 1976, the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals found that the United States lacked authority to take the land through the eminent domain process because Congress had not taken the necessary actions to abrogate the Treaty of March 8, 1865. The treaty set apart the land at issue “for occupation and future home of the Winnebago Indians, forever.” Despite this court ruling, the land currently remains in the possession of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers due to the federal government’s improper use of the eminent domain power.
“My legislation corrects a historical wrong that dates back to the 1970’s,” said King. “At that time, the federal government improperly used the eminent domain process to take land from the Winnebago Tribe even though their rights to that land are protected by treaty. H.R. 3368 requires that this land be held in trust by the United States for the benefit of the Winnebago Tribe subject to the same terms and conditions that were agreed to in the Treaty of March 8, 1865. After over 40 years, it is time the federal government returned this property to the people with the lawful claim.”
Congressman King’s legislation is cosponsored by Representative Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE). The Woodbury and Monona County Boards of Supervisors support King’s legislation, as does the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Steve King has introduced H.R. 3688, the “Winnebago Land Transfer Act of 2017”. King’s legislation seeks to restore several tracts of land located in Woodbury and Monona Counties to the Winnebago Tribe. In 1976, the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals found that the United States lacked authority to take the land through the eminent domain process because Congress had not taken the necessary actions to abrogate the Treaty of March 8, 1865. The treaty set apart the land at issue “for occupation and future home of the Winnebago Indians, forever.” Despite this court ruling, the land currently remains in the possession of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers due to the federal government’s improper use of the eminent domain power.
“My legislation corrects a historical wrong that dates back to the 1970’s,” said King. “At that time, the federal government improperly used the eminent domain process to take land from the Winnebago Tribe even though their rights to that land are protected by treaty. H.R. 3368 requires that this land be held in trust by the United States for the benefit of the Winnebago Tribe subject to the same terms and conditions that were agreed to in the Treaty of March 8, 1865. After over 40 years, it is time the federal government returned this property to the people with the lawful claim.”
Congressman King’s legislation is cosponsored by Representative Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE). The Woodbury and Monona County Boards of Supervisors support King’s legislation, as does the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Congress Nixes Summer Food Program
Source: House Representative Robin Kelly (D-IL, 7th)
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Last week, Congresswoman Robin Kelly offered an amendment to the so-called “Make America Secure and Prosperous Appropriations Act” to reprogram $3 million for summer food assistance to families receiving SNAP benefits.
“Far too often, kids go hungry in the summer because they aren’t in school and being fed,” said Congresswoman Kelly. “For families struggling to make ends meet, affording three meals a day, even with SNAP benefits, for their children is simply impossible. My amendment would provide more breathing room for families working hard to keep food on the table.”
During the 2013-14 school year, more than 770,000 Illinois kids were fed through the free and reduced lunch program at schools.
The Kelly Amendment was rejected by the House Rules Committee, which determines which bills and amendments will receive votes in Congress. The committee did allow a vote on the Hartzler Amendment, a proposal to eliminate the reduced lunch program.
“It’s deeply troubling that this Congress will allow us to vote to take food away from millions of hungry kids but won’t let us vote to feed them,” said Congresswoman Robin Kelly. “No American child should go hungry. I’m sorry that so many of my colleagues disagree with this basic statement of humanity.”
In Illinois, one in four school districts have student bodies that are 100 percent eligible for free and reduced lunch. Congresswoman Kelly pledged to continue working with local and community organizations to ensure young people do not go hungry just because they are not in school during the summers.
Traditionally, Appropriations bills are considered under a process referred to as an ‘open rule,’ which allows any Member of Congress to offer amendments to the spending bill. However, in recent years, Republican leadership has used a process referred to as a ‘closed rule’ to limit or strike amendments through the hyper-partisan Rules Committee.
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Last week, Congresswoman Robin Kelly offered an amendment to the so-called “Make America Secure and Prosperous Appropriations Act” to reprogram $3 million for summer food assistance to families receiving SNAP benefits.
“Far too often, kids go hungry in the summer because they aren’t in school and being fed,” said Congresswoman Kelly. “For families struggling to make ends meet, affording three meals a day, even with SNAP benefits, for their children is simply impossible. My amendment would provide more breathing room for families working hard to keep food on the table.”
During the 2013-14 school year, more than 770,000 Illinois kids were fed through the free and reduced lunch program at schools.
The Kelly Amendment was rejected by the House Rules Committee, which determines which bills and amendments will receive votes in Congress. The committee did allow a vote on the Hartzler Amendment, a proposal to eliminate the reduced lunch program.
“It’s deeply troubling that this Congress will allow us to vote to take food away from millions of hungry kids but won’t let us vote to feed them,” said Congresswoman Robin Kelly. “No American child should go hungry. I’m sorry that so many of my colleagues disagree with this basic statement of humanity.”
In Illinois, one in four school districts have student bodies that are 100 percent eligible for free and reduced lunch. Congresswoman Kelly pledged to continue working with local and community organizations to ensure young people do not go hungry just because they are not in school during the summers.
Traditionally, Appropriations bills are considered under a process referred to as an ‘open rule,’ which allows any Member of Congress to offer amendments to the spending bill. However, in recent years, Republican leadership has used a process referred to as a ‘closed rule’ to limit or strike amendments through the hyper-partisan Rules Committee.
Katko, Cummings Lead Bipartisan Bill to Fund Overtime Pay for Secret Service
Source: House Representative John Katko (R-NY, 24th)
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Rep. John Katko, the Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee’s Transportation and Protective Security Subcommittee, and Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, were joined by Reps. Trey Gowdy, Michael McCaul, Bennie Thompson, and Bonnie Watson-Coleman, in introducing H.R. 3731, the Secret Service Recruitment and Retention Act of 2017, in a bipartisan effort to ensure that the men and women of the U.S. Secret Service are paid for the overtime they work in 2017 and 2018.
“The men and women of the Secret Service deserve to be paid for the hours they work, period,” said Chairman Katko and Ranking Member Cummings. “They put their lives on the line every day and make tremendous personal sacrifices for our country. We cannot expect the Secret Service to recruit and retain the best of the best if they are not being compensated for the additional work that is demanded of them.”
The Secret Service reports more than 1,000 agents—a third of the agent workforce—have already “maxed out” their annual overtime and salary under the pay cap set forth in 5 U.S.C. § 5547, which prohibits agents from being paid for overtime after reaching the maximum annual salary for the pay rate of GS-15.
This bipartisan legislation would allow the Secret Service to cover additional overtime earned this year and the next up to level II of the Executive Schedule and require the Secret Service to submit a report to Congress on recruitment and retention efforts.
Last year, similar legislation funded overtime pay for 1,400 Secret Service employees in the 2016 presidential campaign year.
On Wednesday, the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform will hold a business meeting to consider the legislation.
Click here to see a copy of the bill.
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Rep. John Katko, the Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee’s Transportation and Protective Security Subcommittee, and Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, were joined by Reps. Trey Gowdy, Michael McCaul, Bennie Thompson, and Bonnie Watson-Coleman, in introducing H.R. 3731, the Secret Service Recruitment and Retention Act of 2017, in a bipartisan effort to ensure that the men and women of the U.S. Secret Service are paid for the overtime they work in 2017 and 2018.
“The men and women of the Secret Service deserve to be paid for the hours they work, period,” said Chairman Katko and Ranking Member Cummings. “They put their lives on the line every day and make tremendous personal sacrifices for our country. We cannot expect the Secret Service to recruit and retain the best of the best if they are not being compensated for the additional work that is demanded of them.”
The Secret Service reports more than 1,000 agents—a third of the agent workforce—have already “maxed out” their annual overtime and salary under the pay cap set forth in 5 U.S.C. § 5547, which prohibits agents from being paid for overtime after reaching the maximum annual salary for the pay rate of GS-15.
This bipartisan legislation would allow the Secret Service to cover additional overtime earned this year and the next up to level II of the Executive Schedule and require the Secret Service to submit a report to Congress on recruitment and retention efforts.
Last year, similar legislation funded overtime pay for 1,400 Secret Service employees in the 2016 presidential campaign year.
On Wednesday, the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform will hold a business meeting to consider the legislation.
Click here to see a copy of the bill.
KAPTUR URGES TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TO RELEASE NAVIGATOR FUNDING TO HELP CITIZENS ENROLL IN HEALTH INSURANCE PLANS
Source: House Representative Marcy Kaptur (D-OH, 9th)
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) has sent a letter urging the Trump administration to release promised funding for the Affordable Care Act’s Navigator enrollment assistance grant program. The letter was led by Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) and cosigned by 31 House Democrats.
“Navigators are an essential resource for the American people, and the Navigator program is critical to the success of Open Enrollment. We urge you to unfreeze these funds immediately,” the Members wrote. “Americans already face a number of new hurdles to enrolling in coverage during the upcoming Open Enrollment period, including an enrollment timeframe that has been cut in half and a 90% cut to the outreach budget that could have informed consumers about this significant change. Destabilizing the Navigator program could further compound the challenges consumers will face in understanding when and how to enroll.”
The letter, addressed to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Tom Price and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma, notes that on Friday, September 1st, HHS unexpectedly froze committed funding for the Navigator grant period that was scheduled to begin on Saturday, September 2nd. As of Monday, September 11th, grantees had received no update on when they should expect to receive this essential funding. The letter urges that funds be released immediately with a retroactive date of September 2nd.
Members noted Navigators’ significance in keeping the Marketplaces stable, writing: “Helping Americans sign up for Marketplace coverage has many benefits, including strengthening the risk pool of the individual health insurance market. Conversely, discouraging enrollment could weaken the market and drive up premiums.”
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) has sent a letter urging the Trump administration to release promised funding for the Affordable Care Act’s Navigator enrollment assistance grant program. The letter was led by Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter (NH-01) and cosigned by 31 House Democrats.
“Navigators are an essential resource for the American people, and the Navigator program is critical to the success of Open Enrollment. We urge you to unfreeze these funds immediately,” the Members wrote. “Americans already face a number of new hurdles to enrolling in coverage during the upcoming Open Enrollment period, including an enrollment timeframe that has been cut in half and a 90% cut to the outreach budget that could have informed consumers about this significant change. Destabilizing the Navigator program could further compound the challenges consumers will face in understanding when and how to enroll.”
The letter, addressed to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Tom Price and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma, notes that on Friday, September 1st, HHS unexpectedly froze committed funding for the Navigator grant period that was scheduled to begin on Saturday, September 2nd. As of Monday, September 11th, grantees had received no update on when they should expect to receive this essential funding. The letter urges that funds be released immediately with a retroactive date of September 2nd.
Members noted Navigators’ significance in keeping the Marketplaces stable, writing: “Helping Americans sign up for Marketplace coverage has many benefits, including strengthening the risk pool of the individual health insurance market. Conversely, discouraging enrollment could weaken the market and drive up premiums.”
JONES APPLAUDS TRUMP ON NAFTA RENEGOTIATION; CALLS FOR END TO SPECIAL ACCESS FOR MEXICAN TRUCKS
Source: House Representative Walter B. Jones (R-NC, 3rd)
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Walter B. Jones (NC-3) applauded President Donald J. Trump for his initiative to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and bring jobs back to America. As the Trump administration negotiates with Mexico and Canada this month, Congressman Jones is urging them to demand an end to the unfair special access to U.S. highways given to Mexican long-haul trucks in the original NAFTA agreement negotiated by President Bill Clinton.
“Ross Perot was right,” said Congressman Jones. “That ‘giant sucking sound’ we’ve heard has been the jobs of thousands of hard-working Americans going south to Mexico. It is unacceptable, and it is refreshing to have a president stand up for American workers instead of selling them out.”
In a letter sent today to America’s chief NAFTA negotiator, United States Trade Representative, Robert Lighthizer, Jones continued: “This administration has an incredible opportunity to right so many wrongs embedded in NAFTA. I know you are working hard to address those problems, and I would like to draw your attention to one in particular.”
“At the end of the original NAFTA negotiations, President Clinton and his team caved in to a demand from Mexico to allow Mexican long-haul trucks and Mexican drivers to cross the border and freely operate on American highways. That was a slap in the face. It permitted Mexican carriers, whose safety has never been certified as meeting U.S. standards, to take work away from law-abiding American truckers and to put the safety of American motorists on our highways at risk.”
“As you fight to level the playing field with Mexico, a good place start would be to close American highways to the Mexican truck fleet. American truck drivers do not want reciprocal access to Mexican highways, so no special treatment should be given in the other direction.”
President Trump started the process of renegotiating NAFTA by sending Congress a statutorily required 90-day notification on May 18, 2017. Negotiations began on August 16, 2017. The second round of talks concluded in Mexico earlier this month. The third round is expected to begin on September 23 in Ottawa, Canada.
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Walter B. Jones (NC-3) applauded President Donald J. Trump for his initiative to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and bring jobs back to America. As the Trump administration negotiates with Mexico and Canada this month, Congressman Jones is urging them to demand an end to the unfair special access to U.S. highways given to Mexican long-haul trucks in the original NAFTA agreement negotiated by President Bill Clinton.
“Ross Perot was right,” said Congressman Jones. “That ‘giant sucking sound’ we’ve heard has been the jobs of thousands of hard-working Americans going south to Mexico. It is unacceptable, and it is refreshing to have a president stand up for American workers instead of selling them out.”
In a letter sent today to America’s chief NAFTA negotiator, United States Trade Representative, Robert Lighthizer, Jones continued: “This administration has an incredible opportunity to right so many wrongs embedded in NAFTA. I know you are working hard to address those problems, and I would like to draw your attention to one in particular.”
“At the end of the original NAFTA negotiations, President Clinton and his team caved in to a demand from Mexico to allow Mexican long-haul trucks and Mexican drivers to cross the border and freely operate on American highways. That was a slap in the face. It permitted Mexican carriers, whose safety has never been certified as meeting U.S. standards, to take work away from law-abiding American truckers and to put the safety of American motorists on our highways at risk.”
“As you fight to level the playing field with Mexico, a good place start would be to close American highways to the Mexican truck fleet. American truck drivers do not want reciprocal access to Mexican highways, so no special treatment should be given in the other direction.”
President Trump started the process of renegotiating NAFTA by sending Congress a statutorily required 90-day notification on May 18, 2017. Negotiations began on August 16, 2017. The second round of talks concluded in Mexico earlier this month. The third round is expected to begin on September 23 in Ottawa, Canada.
Treasury Department Reports $20 Trillion National Debt
Source: House Representative Jeb Hensarling (R-TX, 5th)
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Congressman Jeb Hensarling (TX-5) released the following statement in response to the recent Daily Treasury Statement from the United States Treasury reporting that our national debt is set to surpass $20 trillion ($61,899 per citizen):
“As I said last week, when it comes to our national debt the familiar refrain from too many in Washington continues to be, ‘we will deal with that tomorrow.’ I’ve been hearing that for years and now the American people are waking up to find out we now have $20 trillion worth of debt today, and tomorrow never seems to come.
“There is a true spending-driven debt crisis in America. It is the greatest existential threat to our country that receives almost no attention in Washington.
“Not only will the national debt break federal and household budgets, but it is a direct threat to our national security. In a time where the world is more dangerous than ever, we cannot afford to short-change the safety and well-being of our citizens.
“When the debt was $17 trillion, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen said, ‘the most significant threat to our national security is our debt.’ Now that number is significantly higher with no sign of stopping.
“$20 trillion in national debt is a dubious and dangerous milestone that was all too avoidable. If we do not, we will soon wake up to find ourselves a second-rate economic power, a second-rate military power, and a second-rate moral authority.”
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- U.S. Congressman Jeb Hensarling (TX-5) released the following statement in response to the recent Daily Treasury Statement from the United States Treasury reporting that our national debt is set to surpass $20 trillion ($61,899 per citizen):
“As I said last week, when it comes to our national debt the familiar refrain from too many in Washington continues to be, ‘we will deal with that tomorrow.’ I’ve been hearing that for years and now the American people are waking up to find out we now have $20 trillion worth of debt today, and tomorrow never seems to come.
“There is a true spending-driven debt crisis in America. It is the greatest existential threat to our country that receives almost no attention in Washington.
“Not only will the national debt break federal and household budgets, but it is a direct threat to our national security. In a time where the world is more dangerous than ever, we cannot afford to short-change the safety and well-being of our citizens.
“When the debt was $17 trillion, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen said, ‘the most significant threat to our national security is our debt.’ Now that number is significantly higher with no sign of stopping.
“$20 trillion in national debt is a dubious and dangerous milestone that was all too avoidable. If we do not, we will soon wake up to find ourselves a second-rate economic power, a second-rate military power, and a second-rate moral authority.”
Guthrie Releases Bipartisan Draft Legislation to Reform Over-the-Counter Approval System
Source: House Representative Brett S. Guthrie (R-KY, 2nd)
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) and a group of bipartisan Members of Congress have released a discussion draft to reform the over-the-counter (OTC) monograph system. The bill was introduced by Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH) along with Energy and Commerce Committee members Rep. Michael Burgess (R-TX), Rep. Gene Green (D-TX), Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO), and Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI).
The draft would modernize the “monograph” framework that allows the FDA to make scientific determinations for OTC ingredients through an administrative order processwith user fees, an approach closer to new drug application procedures. These updates will allow new, safe products to come to market more quickly, rapidly address safety issues, and expand consumer choice.
“As our medical and pharmaceutical technology rapidly advances, we must ensure that the FDA keeps up with innovations in over-the-counter drugs,” said Guthrie.“I was proud to join Rep. Latta and other members of the Energy and Commerce Committee to introduce this bipartisan legislation that will give the FDA more flexibility to help get new medicines to Americans faster.”
“The outdated OTC monograph system stifles innovation and harms consumer confidence,” said Latta.“Moving to a more flexible system that uses new information and scientific advancements ultimately means more certainty for manufacturers and better products for consumers. Working in a bipartisan manner, we’ve released this draft legislation that adds predictability to the monograph process and would create a more robust over-the-counter marketplace.”
“This bipartisan initiative is a victory for patients and consumers,” said Burgess. “The current over-the-counter monograph system is outdated and deters updates and innovations to over-the-counter medications. This bill will allow for meaningful modifications to the monograph that will equip manufacturers to continue to deliver high-quality products to consumers. We must continue to strive to do more to reform approval processes at the FDA and subsequently increase access to care.”
“Americans utilize over-the-counter products dozens of time every day” said Green. “The FDA’s regulatory framework for oversight of most over-the-counter products has not been updated for decades and is widely regarded as flawed. The current system is unable to keep pace with scientific discovery or respond quickly to safety concerns. We have been working in a bipartisan manner with the FDA and stakeholders to create a more flexible, modern process and give the FDA the resources is needs to respond to new drugs and keep patients safe. This draft is the next step in that process, and we will continue to work across the aisle to advance this important issue.“
“Virtually every American uses over-the-counter medications to treat headaches, colds, and other common ailments,” said DeGette. “The market for these products has grown substantially and the science has advanced, but the system for reviewing them remains outdated. It’s virtually impossible for the FDA to respond to safety risks promptly, which needlessly puts consumers in harm’s way. Our bipartisan bill will give the FDA new tools to protect consumers, provide badly-needed resources, and streamline the FDA review process.”
The OTC monograph system was established in 1972 by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to review the safety and efficacy of the OTC medicine ingredients then on the market, including doses, formulations, and labeling. Any OTC that conforms to a monograph may be manufactured and sold without an individual product approval. In the 45 years since the system was created, the process has not been completed and movement on unfinished items has been slow. The system has become a hindrance that does not allow for advances in science and new information concerning the safety of an ingredient.
The draft legislation updates the monograph process by specifically adding a new section to the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to:
· Move away from the cumbersome current monograph finalization process to an administrative order procedure. Additional processes will be in place to ensure recourse should issues arise.
· Create new pathways to innovation for monograph products benefitting consumers, where none currently exits.
· Provide standards for determining general recognition of safety and effectiveness for monograph drugs.
· Ensure the new drug approval pathway and other nonprescription drugs otherwise lawfully marketed are not affected.
· Include by reference existing OTC Review Final Monographs and deem final Tentative Final Monographs by statute.
Washington, D.C. - September 12, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) and a group of bipartisan Members of Congress have released a discussion draft to reform the over-the-counter (OTC) monograph system. The bill was introduced by Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH) along with Energy and Commerce Committee members Rep. Michael Burgess (R-TX), Rep. Gene Green (D-TX), Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO), and Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI).
The draft would modernize the “monograph” framework that allows the FDA to make scientific determinations for OTC ingredients through an administrative order processwith user fees, an approach closer to new drug application procedures. These updates will allow new, safe products to come to market more quickly, rapidly address safety issues, and expand consumer choice.
“As our medical and pharmaceutical technology rapidly advances, we must ensure that the FDA keeps up with innovations in over-the-counter drugs,” said Guthrie.“I was proud to join Rep. Latta and other members of the Energy and Commerce Committee to introduce this bipartisan legislation that will give the FDA more flexibility to help get new medicines to Americans faster.”
“The outdated OTC monograph system stifles innovation and harms consumer confidence,” said Latta.“Moving to a more flexible system that uses new information and scientific advancements ultimately means more certainty for manufacturers and better products for consumers. Working in a bipartisan manner, we’ve released this draft legislation that adds predictability to the monograph process and would create a more robust over-the-counter marketplace.”
“This bipartisan initiative is a victory for patients and consumers,” said Burgess. “The current over-the-counter monograph system is outdated and deters updates and innovations to over-the-counter medications. This bill will allow for meaningful modifications to the monograph that will equip manufacturers to continue to deliver high-quality products to consumers. We must continue to strive to do more to reform approval processes at the FDA and subsequently increase access to care.”
“Americans utilize over-the-counter products dozens of time every day” said Green. “The FDA’s regulatory framework for oversight of most over-the-counter products has not been updated for decades and is widely regarded as flawed. The current system is unable to keep pace with scientific discovery or respond quickly to safety concerns. We have been working in a bipartisan manner with the FDA and stakeholders to create a more flexible, modern process and give the FDA the resources is needs to respond to new drugs and keep patients safe. This draft is the next step in that process, and we will continue to work across the aisle to advance this important issue.“
“Virtually every American uses over-the-counter medications to treat headaches, colds, and other common ailments,” said DeGette. “The market for these products has grown substantially and the science has advanced, but the system for reviewing them remains outdated. It’s virtually impossible for the FDA to respond to safety risks promptly, which needlessly puts consumers in harm’s way. Our bipartisan bill will give the FDA new tools to protect consumers, provide badly-needed resources, and streamline the FDA review process.”
The OTC monograph system was established in 1972 by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to review the safety and efficacy of the OTC medicine ingredients then on the market, including doses, formulations, and labeling. Any OTC that conforms to a monograph may be manufactured and sold without an individual product approval. In the 45 years since the system was created, the process has not been completed and movement on unfinished items has been slow. The system has become a hindrance that does not allow for advances in science and new information concerning the safety of an ingredient.
The draft legislation updates the monograph process by specifically adding a new section to the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to:
· Move away from the cumbersome current monograph finalization process to an administrative order procedure. Additional processes will be in place to ensure recourse should issues arise.
· Create new pathways to innovation for monograph products benefitting consumers, where none currently exits.
· Provide standards for determining general recognition of safety and effectiveness for monograph drugs.
· Ensure the new drug approval pathway and other nonprescription drugs otherwise lawfully marketed are not affected.
· Include by reference existing OTC Review Final Monographs and deem final Tentative Final Monographs by statute.
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