Tax Reform, Mining, Food Safety, Education, South Korea, Hurricanes, Insurance, abortion, Cuba, health care, Healthcare, Sports, Farmers, Drug Addiction, Prostate Cancer

The Ponder News
September 29, 2017
(If you are receiving this via email, you may access all the links at:
http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/09/tax-reform-mining-food-safety-education.html )

Tax Reform

=====

Davis Statement on GOP Tax Reform Framework and Retreat
Rodney Davis (R-IL, 13th)
“Today House Republicans united around middle-class Americans who are being crushed by our outdated tax code,” said Davis. “Illinois residents know all too well the impact high taxes are having on their families’ ability to save and get ahead and our state’s ability to compete for good-paying jobs. Our plan uses Illinois as an example of what not to do. We want to cut tax rates for individuals, simplify but maintain important middle-class deductions, and make it so American businesses can compete globally. There’s still much more work to be done, but this is our shot at changing the lives of each working American for the better and I hope we get bipartisan support to get it done.”
Read more...

Statement from Congressman Dan Donovan on Tax Reform
Daniel Donovan (R-NY, 11th)
"...I’m of course concerned about the state and local tax deduction, and I’ll continue working with my colleagues as the legislation goes through the committee process. It’s important to me that Staten Island and Brooklyn residents benefit from tax relief and don’t shoulder the burden for cuts elsewhere in the country."
Read more...

DUNN RELEASES STATEMENT ON UNIFIED TAX REFORM BLUEPRINT
Neal Dunn (R-FL, 2nd)
“We have a once in a generation opportunity to overhaul our complex tax system, lower rates, and truly make the IRS work for the people, instead of against them,” said Dr. Dunn. “At more than 4 million words long, the current tax code is a prime example of the government red tape that is strangling our economy. By lowering rates, reducing the size and scope of the IRS, and closing loopholes, we will put more money back in the pockets of the people who earned it and supercharge the economy.”
Read more...

Fair and Simple Tax Reform for American Families and American Jobs
Bill Flores (R-TX, 17th)
Over the past eight months, American economic growth has jumped by almost 50 percent from the below-average growth levels of the last few years. We believe that tax reform can take our economic growth and job opportunities to even higher levels, and to relieve the economic strains being felt by working families.
Read more...

=====

Mining

=====

Rep. Peter DeFazio Blasts Request to Overturn Protections for Critical Watershed
Peter DeFazio (D-OR, 4th)
“This is an egregious overstep by Washington, driven by special interests,” said Rep. DeFazio. “The prohibition on mining on the Smith River and the headwaters of Hunter Creek and Pistol River has broad, overwhelming support from thousands of residents of southwest Oregon, local governments, businesses and community leaders. Re-opening this area to allow a foreign company to strip mine our public lands without paying American taxpayers hardly any royalties would devastate surrounding economies and threaten critical drinking water sources. This withdrawal has been discussed, debated and endorsed by the surrounding communities and supported by federal agencies. Chairman Bishop and the Trump administration need to respect the will of southwest Oregon.”
Read more...

=====

Food Safety

=====

DeLauro Responds to New OIG Report Detailing FDA’s Failure to Effectively Implement the Food and Safety Modernization Act
Rosa L. DeLauro (D-CT, 3rd)
“The goal of the Food Safety and Modernization Act (FSMA) was to prevent food-safety problems rather than react to these issues after they arise. However, the Inspector General’s report revealed that the FDA has not taken effective or timely action to identify and correct food facility inspection violations.”
Read more...

=====

Education

=====


DelBene Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Lower College Textbook Costs
Suzan Delbene (D-WA, 1st)
“An often overlooked driver of the rising cost of college is textbooks and supplies. In addition to tackling tuition hikes and burdensome student loan debt, we must find solutions to the other factors making a college degree less attainable for working families,” DelBene said. “Technology is changing the classroom experience, and the E-BOOK Act will help spur innovation in our colleges by incentivizing the adoption of new learning technologies, which in turn will save students money.”
Read more...

=====

South Korea

=====

Congressman Dent Supports Maintaining South Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement
Charles W. Dent (R-PA, 15th)
"Retracting from this South Korea trade agreement would be detrimental to American econoimc, diplomatic, and security interests," said Dent. "It's a short-sighted move that fails to take into account two key factors. First, the deal benefits both American workers and businesses, especially in terms of agricultural exports. Second, America would be sending te wrong message to our ally by backing out of our trade agreement in the midst of the ongoing North Korea threat. We cannot slight the South Korean government in this way by seemingly abandoning them," Dent stated.
Read more...

=====

Hurricanes

=====

Diaz-Balart Votes for Tax Relief to Support Hurricane Impacted Communities
Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL, 25th)
“This year, we have experienced an extremely active hurricane season that has left destruction and devastation in its path. After days without running water or electricity, parts of Florida are just beginning the rebuilding process. A large number of homes in our community have been deemed structurally unsafe, and hundreds more require critical repair. This legislation provides significant tax relief that will assist Floridians and others who have been impacted by recent storms. Many are now left to find the financial means to make needed repairs to their homes. Among others, by eliminating the tax penalty on early retirement plan withdrawals, we can help folks access the capital required to make these repairs and get back on their feet. These tax benefits also extend to citizens of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, assisting Caribbean citizens who need our support in this difficult time.”
Read more...


=====

Insurance

=====

Duffy Introduces Bipartisan FIO Reform Act
Sean P. Duffy (R-WI, 7th)
Wisconsin Congressman Sean Duffy, chairman of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing & Insurance, today co-introduced the Federal Insurance Office (FIO) Reform Act with Congressman Denny Heck (D-WA).
Read more...

=====

Abortion

=====

CONGRESSMAN DUNCAN'S STATEMENT ON H.R. 36
John J. Duncan, Jr. (R-TN, 2nd)
This bill would protect an unborn child old enough to feel pain from being aborted. Evidence indicates an unborn baby is able to feel pain at 20 weeks old," said Duncan.
Read more...

=====

Cuba

=====

Congressional Cuba Working Group Statement in Response to Ongoing Investigation in Cuba
Tom Emmer (R-MN, 6th)
“The federal government has a responsibility to ensure the safety and security of our diplomats and Foreign Service personnel, regardless of where they serve. Those who are responsible for perpetuating these harmful and unacceptable acts will be held accountable.
Read more...

=====

Health Care

=====

EVANS AND SMUCKER INTRODUCE BILL TO IMPROVE PEDIATRIC CARE AND REDUCE PHYSICIAN SHORTAGE
Dwight Evans (D PA, 2nd)
Rep. Dwight Evans and Rep. Smucker, along with, today introduced the Strengthening Our Pediatric Workforce Act – bipartisan legislation that will help address America’s growing pediatric physician shortage by creating a new grant program for children’s teaching hospitals to make additional residency positions available for pediatric specialists
Read more...

=====

Sports

=====

Congressman Farenthold Reintroduces the PRO Sports Act
Blake Farenthold (R-TX, 27th)
“Professional sports leagues should not be exempt from paying taxes,” said Congressman Farenthold. “These are highly profitable businesses that make tens of millions of dollars each year and have been exploiting loopholes to game the system. It’s time we blow the whistle on this foul, and get this bill over the goal line.”
Read more...

=====

Farming

=====

Faso Introduces Bill to Crack-Down on Fake Organics, Support Organic Farmers
John Faso, (R-NY, 19th)
Congressman Faso said, “Fraudulent ‘organic’ grain and feed originating overseas is not only deceptive to consumers, but it artificially drives down the price of real organics, hurting legitimate organic farmers in Upstate New York and across the country. I am proud to introduce the Organic Farmer and Consumer Protection Act alongside Congresswoman Lujan Grisham as it will crack down on these fake organics. This is commonsense legislation that puts American consumers and farmers first
Read more...

=====

Drug Addiction

=====

Op-Ed: White House must formally declare the opioid crisis a national emergency
Brian Fitzpatrick, (R PA, 8th)
A little over a month ago, President Trump announced his intention to declare the opioid epidemic a national emergency. He was right—it is an emergency. Drug overdoses killed almost 54,000 people in 2015, and the majority of those deaths involved an opioid. Last year about 12 million Americans misused an opioid, and the overdose death toll rose to 65,000. The opioid crisis is cutting deep scars in our communities, and in some states, is taking more of our loved ones than car accidents, suicides and firearms combined. It is absolutely an emergency and we urge the president to move quickly in formally declaring the opioid crisis a national health emergency.
Read more...

=====

Other

=====

ENGEL: GOP HAS WASTED TIME, JEOPARDIZED VITAL PROGRAMS
Eliot Engel (D-NY, 16th)
Congressional Republicans have spent nine months on their tired vendetta against the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Now, just days before the fiscal year ends, they’ve proven only that they were willing to put critical programs on the backburner for a shot at fulfilling their misguided political promises.
Read more...

Esty Calls on Congress to Vote on Puerto Rico Aid Relief, Expiring Federal Programs
Elizabeth Esty (D-CT, 5th)
“I am calling on my colleagues to come together to find a bipartisan approach that fully funds these programs and assists all Americans to keep our country moving forward.”
Read more...

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
By: Mrs. Brenda Fleischmann
The calendar fills up quickly in September as families return to a packed routine after quieter summer days. Unfortunately, your health might take a backseat to your busy schedule. So make a note on your calendar that September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and remind yourself—or the men in your life—about the importance of a healthy prostate.
Read more...

News from the House to Ponder

The Ponder News
September 29, 2017
(If you are receiving this via email, you may access all the links at:
http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/09/news-from-house-to-ponder.html )

Tax Reform

=====

Adams Statement Ahead of Republican Tax Plan Announcement
Alma Adams (D-NC, 12th)
“It’s long overdue that we have a tax code that is fair, balanced, and simple,” said Congresswoman Adams. “American families and small businesses need comprehensive tax reform that provides an opportunity to rebuild the middle class-not another tax cut for the wealthy. True reform will only be possible if both parties have a seat at the table and thus far, Democrats have been shut out of the discussion. I urge my Republican colleagues to begin a bipartisan debate to reform our antiquated tax code today.”
Read more...

Allen: Unified Tax Reform Framework will Protect the American Dream
Rick Allen (R-GA, 12th)
“It has been over 30 years since our broken tax code was last reformed, but today, President Trump and the Republican Congress laid out a tax framework that will provide relief for hard-working Americans and jumpstart our economy. Bold reforms will increase paychecks, grow local businesses, and expand our economy in ways that we have not seen in a long time. Our plan will accomplish all of these goals, making the tax code affordable, simple, and competitive. It will allow middle class Americans to keep more of their hard-earned paychecks and level the playing field for American businesses and workers to bring jobs back home. The unified tax reform framework will protect the American dream for families and remove the tax burdens strangling our economy.”
Read more...

REP. BACON ISSUES STATEMENT FOLLOWING RELEASE OF TAX REFORM FRAMEWORK
Don Bacon (R-NE, 2nd)
"It's been 31 years since we updated our tax code, and now is the time for tax reform. We propose tax reform that is fair, simple, and helps us compete and win in the global economy. This reform will unleash economic growth, increase employment and will put more money back in the pockets of American families. Each year, taxpayers spend a combined $99 billion and countless hours to file their taxes and they want simplicity. Our businesses currently pay among the highest taxes in the world and it is time we put our businesses on a level playing field, so that our work ethic and innovative spirit wins. Lowering rates while removing loopholes will create fairness amongst businesses.
Read more...

BANKS PRAISES GOP TAX REFORM PLAN
Jim Banks (R-IN, 3rd)
“The last time tax reform was passed, I was seven years old and Ronald Reagan was president. Today’s framework is a good first step towards closing loopholes and putting more money in the pockets of Hoosier families. It has been over a decade since our country’s economy has grown by 3%, and this sort of growth is critical to lowering the national debt and balancing the budget. I look forward to working with President Trump and my colleagues in Congress on this important issue.”
Read more...

Congressman Bergman’s Statement on Today’s Rollout of the Tax Reform Structure
Jack Bergman (R-MI, 1st)
It’s been over 30 years since our tax code has undergone comprehensive reform. We, the people, are overdue for tax relief. The framework laid out today by the Republican Congress and President Trump is a great first step towards achieving relevant tax reform. This proposal gives working individuals and families in Michigan’s First District a simpler tax code that allows them to keep more of their hard-earned paycheck, and provides small businesses the opportunity to create more jobs and grow a stronger economy.
Read more...

Cole Statement on Republican Tax Reform Framework
Tom Cole (R-OK, 4th)
“I was very encouraged by the framework for tax reform that was laid out this morning,” said Cole. “While many details remain to be determined by the legislative process, it offers a positive path forward.”
Read more...

Collins Supports Comprehensive Tax Reform Framework
Chris Collins (R-NY, 27th)
“Updating our nation’s tax code will be one of the most important accomplishments we will see under President Trump. The House Republican framework is what will truly make America Great Again by making our country more competitive around the world and allowing families to keep more of what they earn. Lower corporate tax rates and repatriation of dollars that are overseas will directly stimulate investment and job growth in Western New York and around our country. It’s time for Congress to follow President Trump’s lead and fix the broken, outdated tax system that has burdened hard-working individuals and has crushed our economy.”
Read more...

Rep. Comstock On Tax Reform Framework
Barbara Comstock (R-VA, 10th)
"...I am also pleased to see an expanded child tax credit included in the framework since it has been over a decade since the child tax credit was last expanded. I have introduced H.R. 383, the Expanded Child Tax Credit Act which would double the current tax credit from $1,000 to $2,000 per child so that families will have more money in their pockets. I have also cosponsored H.R. 3632, the Promoting Affordable Childcare for Everyone (PACE) Act which will help middle class and low-income families with tax credits for childcare, and I hope to see this included in the final package given the high cost of childcare for two earner families"
Read more...

Tax Reform's Focus Should be Middle Class Families, Individuals
Rick Crawford (R-AR, 1st)
“The 1st District of Arkansas will be looking for a fiscally responsible tax reform plan that significantly lowers taxes for working middle income Americans and their families. I support the President’s goal of making our tax code more competitive to increase economic growth and drive up wages for American workers. Ultimately, our current tax code benefits some at the expense of the many, and Americans should be able to keep more of their paychecks to spend, save, or invest as they so choose.”
Read more...

Davidson’s Statement on Tax Reform Framework
Warren Davidson (R-OH, 8th)
“Hardworking Ohio families deserve a simple tax system and more take home pay. In the coming weeks, I’ll be working with my colleagues in Congress to make sure the bold, pro-growth and pro-family reforms that this framework proposes are put in place and that a final bill arrives on President Trump’s desk as soon as possible.”
Read more...


=====

Awards

=====

Amash earns award for taxpayer-friendly voting record
Justin Amash (R-MI, 3rd)
Rep. Justin Amash (R-Mich.) this week received the “Taxpayers’ Friend Award” from the National Taxpayers Union in recognition of the “A” grade he earned for his 2016 voting record. His score of 93 percent on the organization’s 2016 scorecard earned him the highest rating in the House of Representatives.
Read more...

=====

News Concerning the Hurricanes

=====

Babin Supports Bill to Deliver Immediate Tax Relief to Hurricane Victims
Brian Babin (R-TX, 36th)
“In my congressional district, countless individuals and families lost nearly everything to Harvey’s floodwaters,” said Rep. Babin. “The stories are heartbreaking. This bipartisan legislation gives them further assistance to rebuild their lives through immediate tax relief while sending another important message that we stand together with our fellow Americans through this extremely difficult time.”
Read more...

Rep. Ami Bera Denounces Trump Administration’s Response in Puerto Rico and Urges Immediate Action
Amy Berra (D-CA, 7th)
Rep. Ami Bera, M.D. released the following statement after news broke that the Trump administration will not waive shipping restrictions that are delaying Puerto Rico relief:
Read more...

BIPARTISAN GROUP OF 65 MEMBERS OF CONGRESS CALL ON TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TO LET CUBA BUY U.S.-MADE RECONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS AFTER HURRICANE IRMA
John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI, 13th)
“[T]here is a simple change you can make that would provide necessary support to the Cuban people while at the same time helping U.S. businesses: remove restrictions on the ability of U.S. companies to export needed relief and reconstruction supplies to the Cuban government and its people.”
Read more...

Hmmm. That's a tough one. Trump could say yes and stand to make money to help our budget off helping Cuba, or he could say no and risk the damning from the main stream media, once again. Not that anyone cares about what CNN thinks, but the money sure looks good right now. The question is, can Cuba afford our help?

This opens up a whole new point of view. All these countries that are offering us help, what do they want from us in return? Are we accepting it? If so, from who? Why isn't the media covering this?

Hurricane Relief and FAA Authorization Pass House
Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota)
“After Democrats voted against this bill earlier this week using DACA as a reason to obstruct this otherwise bipartisan bill, I am pleased House Republicans rose above the partisan politics being played. While consistent long-term funding is always the goal, this bill ensures the vital functions of the FAA continue to run smoothly while the House and Senate continue to work on a longer-term solution.”
Read more...

=====

Budget

=====

REINVENTING WASHINGTON'S BROKEN BUDGET PROCESS
Doug Collins (R-GA, 9th)
The American people are fed up with Washington — and rightfully so. Both parties are responsible for this pathetic budgeting record and for its byproduct: a staggering $20 trillion debt. It's time to forge a new path.
Read more...

=====

Law-breakers

=====

Warrants, Whether Convicted or Not, Keep People from Getting Federal Benefits
Paul Cook (R-CA, 8th)
The CUFF Act amends the law to prohibit individuals who have an outstanding arrest warrant for a felony or parole violation from receiving certain monthly welfare benefits. The law would apply only to felony charges or a crime carrying a minimum term of one or more years in prison. The policy would not punish those convicted of misdemeanors, such as outstanding parking tickets.
Read more...

=====

Iran

=====

Bipartisan pair wants commission to oversee Iran deal
Gerald E. “Gerry” Connolly (D-VA, 11th)
Congress has a role to play in effective oversight of this agreement, and we must assert that role regardless of whether the president certifies Iran’s compliance. This commission ensures that the effort to constrain the Iranian nuclear program receives the attention it deserves.”
Read more...
=====

Other

=====

Cohen’s Statement on the Announced Retirement of Tennessee Senator Bob Corker
Steve Cohen (D-TN, 9th)
“I was disappointed to learn that Senator Bob Corker will not be seeking re-election in 2018. Senator Corker has been easy to work with, and we have developed an excellent relationship since beginning our careers in Congress in 2006. Bob is highly respected for his knowledge of the issues, especially foreign policy. He has exhibited moments of independence reminiscent of past great Tennessee Senators. I have enjoyed his friendship and collegiality since serving together in Tennessee State government, and I will miss serving with him in Congress.”
Read more...

Cooper Statement on Announced Retirement of Sen. Bob Corker
Jim Cooper (D-TN, 5th)
“I congratulate Sen. Corker for two terms in the Senate. Despite our differences, we have a solid working relationship and I admire his expertise on foreign affairs,” Rep. Cooper said. “I wish him the best in his future endeavors, and I thank him for his service to Tennessee.”
Read more...

Elections, Tax Reform, Constitutional Amendment, E-mails, Bathroom Controversy, Worker's Rights, Immigration, Hurricane Maria, Discrimination, Veterans

Trump Wave Last Year Also Lifts Roy Moore and Others To Senate
Public Advocate USA
It's often said that you can know a man by his enemies. That being the case, we can know a lot about Judge Roy Moore by the blaring headline on Huffington Post last night: "Alabama Earthquake: GOP Picks Outsider Bigot." Translated, this means, "GOP Picks Conservative Christian, Anti-Establishment Candidate." Sounds good to me.
Read more...

Let the left rant and rave. It is precisely that attitude that is driving many hard-working, law-abiding Christians and Conservatives to the polls. When they scream at us with abusive names, it opens our eyes to the fact that we have got to get them gone, and the only weapon we have that is safe is Constitution, the pen and the ballot.

Public Knowledge Hopeful New Assistant Attorney General Makan Delrahim Will Protect Consumers
Public Knowledge
"Given Mr. Delrahim's extensive background and knowledge of antitrust, we hope he will maintain and extend the enforcement practices the Antitrust Division has applied over the last eight years."
Read more...

Study: How the ‘amendment tree’ grew to neuter Senate floor debate
R Street Institute
The principal means by which Senate majorities have exerted greater control over the institution’s decision-making process in recent years has been through their ability to block amendments on the Senate floor. In a new R Street Institute policy study, Senior Fellow James Wallner traces the history of the Senate’s “amendment tree” and considers how it has evolved to allow a majority leader to use his priority of recognition to block floor amendments.
Read more...

PRAISE FOR THE UNVEILING OF PRESIDENT TRUMP'S TAX PROPOSAL IS ROLLING IN
Republican Party
Rally Attendees Praised President Trump’s Tax Plan Rollout, With One Saying The President Is “Singing The Tune We Want.” REPORTER: “Trump’s plan would also help businesses be more globally competitive by slashing the corporate tax rate from 35 to 20%. It would also help small business owners by cutting their top tax rate from nearly 40% down to 25%.” RALLY ATTENDEES: “President’s Trump's really singing the tune the we want to hear to really grow our business and feel confident so, we're looking forward to it and hoping this tax plan goes through. It’ll be good for everybody.” (WLS-CHI’s “Eyewitness News,” 9/27/17)
Read more...

RETAILERS COMMITTED TO FIXING BROKEN TAX CODE
Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA)
The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), the trade association for today's most recognized and innovative retail brands, issued a statement applauding this morning's announcement from Congress and the Administration on their framework for tax reform. RILA Executive Vice President of Government Affairs Jennifer Safavian said the framework unveiled today represents an historic opportunity to fix a broken tax code and boost economic growth.
Read more...

Court Will Review Clinton Emails Over Objections of Tillerson State Department and Sessions Justice Department
Judicial Watch
Judicial Watch announced that a federal judge will personally review, in camera, redacted material from emails discussing Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's use of iPads and iPhones during her tenure at the State Department. Judge Kollar-Kotelly also ordered the State Department to file an affidavit addressing why it should not have to search new Clinton emails recovered. In taking these steps, the court rejected arguments by the Tillerson State Department and its lawyers at the Sessions Justice Department.
Read more...

BATHROOM PRIVACY BECOMES AN ELECTION ISSUE
Texas Values
Despite being listed as a priority item by Gov. Greg Abbott, having overwhelming support of the public according to polls (particularly women), bipartisan support in the Texas Senate when the bill passed (thanks to Sen. Eddie Lucio), Speaker Joe Straus and particularly State Affairs Committee Chairman Byron Cook prevented the bill from being heard by the entire House of Representatives. Because of that, Hudgens said, students like those in San Antonio ISD, or Dripping Springs ISD elementary students like 10-year-old Shiloh are left with uncertainty over whether their privacy will be violated this school year.
Read more...

Civil and Human Rights Coalition Calls on Supreme Court to Uphold Workers’ Rights
The Leadership Conference
“Here we go again. Billionaires and right-wing corporate special interests are trying to use the Supreme Court to attack the fundamental rights of working people to come together, speak up, and hold the wealthy and powerful accountable. Working people and their unions have been at the forefront of battles for civil rights and the fight to unrig our economy – fights that benefit everyone. Stronger unions mean higher wages for all workers, and stronger communities with more pathways to prosperity for all, including women and people of color. Black and Latino union workers earn respectively 15 percent and 22 percent more than their non-union counterparts.
Read more...

USCIS announces award recipients of nearly $10 million in funding to support citizenship preparation programs
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has awarded nearly $10 million in grants to 45 public and private non-profit organizations across the country to help lawful permanent residents prepare for naturalization. The grants also help these organizations promote prospective citizens’ assimilation into American civic life by funding educational programs designed to increase their knowledge of English, U.S. history and civics. Located in 26 states, these organizations will receive federal funding to support citizenship preparation services for lawful permanent residents through September 2019.
Read more...

Federal Teams Working to Restore Power and Stabilize Critical Infrastructure after Hurricane Maria
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
In the wake of Hurricane Maria, the top priority of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the entire federal government is continuing to provide life safety and life sustaining resources to Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands. This includes efforts to restore power, and stabilize critical infrastructure.
Read more...

Justice Department Files Lawsuit Against Crop Production Services Alleging Discrimination Against U.S. Workers
U.S Department of Justice
The complaint alleges that in 2016, Crop Production discriminated against at least three United States citizens by refusing to employ them as seasonal technicians in El Campo, Texas, because Crop Production preferred to hire temporary foreign workers under the H-2A visa program. According to the department’s complaint, Crop Production imposed more burdensome requirements on U.S. citizens than it did on H-2A visa workers to discourage U.S. citizens from working at the facility. For instance, the complaint alleges that whereas U.S. citizens had to complete a background check and a drug test before being permitted to start work, H-2A workers were allowed to begin working without completing them and, in some cases, never completed them. The complaint also alleges that Crop Production refused to consider a limited-English proficient U.S. citizen for employment but hired H-2A workers who could not speak English. Ultimately, all of Crop Production’s 15 available seasonal technician jobs in 2016 went to H-2A workers instead of U.S. workers.
Read more...

VA Awards $8M in Adaptive Sports Program Grants to Aid Disabled Veterans: Grants promote rehabilitation, health and wellness and community reintegration
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
VA is awarding the grants to national governing bodies, which prepare high-level athletes for Paralympic competition; Veterans service organizations; city and regional municipalities; and other community groups to provide a wide range of adaptive sports opportunities for eligible Veterans and service members. The grants will support activities ranging from kayaking, sailing, cycling, skiing, equine therapy and equestrian sports, among other activities.
Read more...

DREAMers, Planned Parenthood, Climate Change, Tax Reform, Thurgood Marshall Day, Family, Caregivers

Utah Immigration Reform Coalition Responds to the Announcement of the SUCCEED Act Sponsored by Senator Hatch to Address DREAMers in the Economy
New American Economy
“Senator Hatch continues to look for thoughtful solutions for immigrants, their families and the communities where they live and work,” said Jason Mathis, Executive Vice President of the Salt Lake City Chamber of Commerce. “We appreciate his commitment to helping DACA recipients and encourage him to keep leading on common sense, bipartisan solutions.”
Read more...

Pro-Life Leader Calls for McConnell’s Resignation Over Senate Inability to Defund Planned Parenthood
Operation Rescue
It was announced that the Graham-Cassidy Repeal and Replace Obamacare bill has been pulled due to three Republican defections, including Sen. John McCain of Arizona. That bill would have prevented over $500 million in tax dollars from going to Planned Parenthood, the largest abortion provider in the nation.
Read more...

WITH THE UNITED NATIONS IN NEW YORK CITY, INDUSTRIES GATHER TO TAKE ON CLIMATE CHANGE
Outdoor Industry Association
As international leaders gathered in New York City last week for the United Nations General Assembly, another significant brain-trust convened simultaneously for the ninth Climate Week NYC. At a time when there is federal inaction on climate, businesses, governors, mayors, investors and NGOs engaged in meaningful discussions that exemplify and reiterate to the world that the United States business community is committed to the Paris Climate Agreement, even if the federal government currently is not.
Read more...

Oxfam reaction to the new tax plan
OxFam America
“The tax plan introduced today is a blueprint for increased inequality. There is no doubt that the biggest winners in our global economy are those at the top, and this proposal will skew that even further.
Read more...

SBA: President's Proposed Tax Reform Plan Will Support Small Business Growth
Small Business Association
President Donald J. Trump's proposed framework eliminates special interest tax breaks that benefit the wealthy and lowers the corporate tax rate, restoring our competitive edge and boosting our economy, which is always good for small business. It also caps the top rate for businesses that operate as pass-through entities (S-Corporations and LLCs).
Read more...

October 2, 2017 Declared Thurgood Marshall Day
Open Road Films
Pennsylvania State Senator Vincent Hughes who introduced the bill declaring October 2 "Thurgood Marshall Day," which passed the state legislature unanimously, said, "Pennsylvania is proud to be taking part in honoring Thurgood Marshall with a statewide designated day. His spirit is very much alive in the many civil rights struggles still unfolding in our nation's courtrooms today, and now more than ever we need to honor and learn from his legacy."
Read more...

AARP Applauds Unanimous Senate Passage of RAISE Family Caregivers Act
AARP
AARP applauds the unanimous passage in the U.S. Senate of the bipartisan Recognize, Assist, Include, Support, and Engage (RAISE) Family Caregivers Act (S. 1028). The legislation, introduced by Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), calls for the development of a strategy to support the nation's 40 million family caregivers. It would bring together stakeholders from the private and public sectors to recommend actions that communities, providers, government, and others are taking and may take to help make the big responsibilities of caregiving a little bit easier.
Read more...

DON’T TAX MY HEALTH CARE

Alliance to Fight the 40
We applaud Congress and the Administration for not including a cap on the employee exclusion for employer sponsored
coverage. Americans will reject any new efforts to tax their health care benefits received through an
employer.
Read more...


EEI STATEMENT ON THE RELEASE OF THE TAX REFORM FRAMEWORK
Edison Electric Institute
We applaud President Trump and Republican congressional leaders for releasing today’s tax reform framework. EEI's member companies strongly support tax reform because we believe that a simpler tax code, broader tax base, and lower tax rates will grow the economy and increase the competitiveness of the United States, support job creation in America, and benefit our customers.
Read more...

Tax Plan Should Not Increase Debt
Concord Coalition
“Unfortunately, the new framework for revamping the tax code doesn’t contain much new information about how the proposed tax cuts would be financed,” said Robert L. Bixby, executive director of The Concord Coalition. “That’s the critical question. Elected officials are touting all the goodies in terms of tax cuts and lower rates while leaving the trade-offs hidden and which taxpayers would be affected unspecified. That’s hardly a model for legislative responsibility.”
Read more...

Read about the New Tax Reform and More at The Ponder Today!

Access all the links by going to http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/09/read-about-new-tax-reform-and-more-at.html

New FAIR Study: Illegal Immigration Costs $116 Billion Annually
Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR US)
Illegal immigration to the U.S. costs federal, state and local taxpayers a staggering net cost of $116 billion a year – an increase of some $16 billion compared to previous estimates – according to a new study released by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR). The study is the most comprehensive to date on the cost to federal, state and local taxpayers of the nation’s 12.5 million illegal immigrants and their 4.2 million citizen children.
Read More...


'Team Internet' Mobilizing Thousands of Net Neutrality Activists to Meet with Lawmakers Across the Country
Free Press
In late July, on the heels of the Day of Action to Save Net Neutrality, the advocacy groups Demand Progress, Free Press Action Fund and Fight for the Future announced the launch of Team Internet. Using a distributed-organizing model — which connects volunteers face to face and empowers them to lead organizing efforts in their communities — Team Internet has mobilized tens of thousands of local activists in just two months.
Read More...

GOA Celebrates Roy Moore Primary Victory
Gun Owners of America
Moore, who is endorsed by GOA, will be a stalwart defender of the Second Amendment, if he wins the general election. “I thank all Alabama gun owners and activists who turned out to vote for Moore,” Tim Macy, chairman of GOA, said. “I look forward to rallying their support one more time in December to solidify Moore’s Senate seat.”
Read more...

Response to the Introduction of the SUCCEED Act in the U.S. Senate
Hispanic Leadership Fund
Hispanic Leadership Fund President Mario H. Lopez issued the following statement in response to the introduction of the SUCCEED Act in the U.S. Senate, a bill that if enacted into law, would establish an earned path to legal status for undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children if they serve in the military, graduate from college, or work.
Read more...


EVENT
Conaway, Peterson Announce Farm Bill Listening Session in New York
House Committee on Agriculture
House Agriculture Committee Chairman K. Michael Conaway (TX-11) and Ranking Member Collin Peterson (MN-7) announced a committee listening session, “The Next Farm Bill, Conversations in the Field” in Cobleskill, New York on Monday, Oct. 9, 2017. The listening session is a continuation of the committee’s efforts to gather input from farmers, ranchers and stakeholders ahead of the upcoming farm bill. Upon announcement, the chairman and ranking member made the following remarks:
Read more...

Members Review Proposals to Modernize Federal Fisheries Management
House Committee on Natural Resources
The Subcommittee on Water, Power and Oceans held a legislative hearing on a series of bills aimed at improving federal fisheries management for commercial and recreational fisherman.
Read more...


Tribal Recognition Act of 2017
House Committee on Natural Resources
The bill establishes a statutory process within the Department of the Interior (DOI) for examining evidence submitted by groups seeking recognition and codifies the Constitutional authority of tribal recognition as solely vested with the legislative branch.
Read more...

Personal Use of Government Aircraft Investigated
House Committee on Oversight and Governmental Reform
House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Trey Gowdy (R-SC) and Ranking Member Elijah Cummings (D-MD) sent letters to the White House and 24 federal agencies requesting information related to senior officials’ use of government-owned aircraft or private non-commercial aircraft for official and personal travel.
Read more...

Chairman Chabot Responds to Unified Plan to Fix Broken Tax Code
House Committee on Small Business
“Today, we took a positive step toward fixing our broken tax code and helping provide relief to the tens of millions of small businesses across our country who continue to be held back by a broken system. Small businesses deserved a voice in the largest tax reform in 31 years and today they were heard. This unified plan will provide small business owners, their families, and their employees with a simpler and fairer tax code that will help their bottom lines, and also grow our economy,” said Chairman Chabot.
Read more...

EVENT
TAX REFORM SPEECHES THIS THURSDAY: Chairman Brady to Discuss Republicans’ Unified Tax Reform Framework
House Committee on Ways and Means
On Thursday, September 28, House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) will deliver two speeches to discuss how Republicans’ unified tax reform framework will create more jobs, fairer taxes, and bigger paychecks.
Read more...

NFL Players Have No First Amendment Right to Protest
Liberty Counsel
We have heard many people claim that the athletes have a First Amendment right to kneel in protest of the National Anthem and injustice, but this is not accurate. In order for the First Amendment to apply to any situation, there must be a government actor on one side and a private person, group or organization on the other side. In the NFL context, there is no government actor and thus, there is no First Amendment concern
Read more...

Congratulations to Judge Roy Moore on Your Victory!
MAGA Coalition
MAGA Coalition Chief Strategist, Dr Sebastian Gorka, remarked that “Tonight’s victory for Judge Moore is a victory for President Trump and the MAGA Agenda we all voted for in November,” Gorka said, “The Establishment- both on Left AND Right – betrayed the sacred oath they made with the American people. It is time for change. Time to dismantle the D.C. Establishment. Judge Moore will be a frontline fighter for Donald Trump as we drain the Swamp together. Now let us together MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
Read more...

NACo statement on the administration’s and Congress’ joint tax reform proposal
National Association of Counties
We are pleased to see the preservation of tax-exempt municipal bonds, a key financing tool counties and states leverage to build roads, schools, hospitals and other public facilities. However, we have major concerns with the proposal to eliminate federal deductibility of state and local taxes, or SALT.
Read more...


Millions of Middle-Income Homeowners Stand to Lose Under “Big 6” Tax Proposal
National Association of Realtors
A group of legislators and administration leaders known as the “Big 6” today released an outline for comprehensive tax reform that if enacted, according to the National Association of Realtors®, could lead to a tax on homeownership for millions.
Read more...

Cattlemen “Very Pleased” That Tax-Reform Blueprint Includes Death Tax Repeal, Will Fight to Maintain Existing Positive Provisions in Tax Code
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
Our Nation’s cattle producers are very pleased that President Trump and Republican leaders in Congress have maintained their long-standing commitment to American agriculture by including a full repeal of the onerous death tax in the Unified Framework for Fixing Our Broken Tax Code. We look forward to working with the Administration and lawmakers on Capitol Hill as pen meets paper on tax legislation, and will continue to demonstrate how the death tax and its associated costs adversely affect family-owned operations and the rural communities they support.
Read more...

Small Business Encouraged by Tax Reform Framework
National Federation of Independent Business
“This is the beginning of a long process, and we look forward to more details. NFIB will remain engaged to ensure that tax reform starts with small business. Small businesses need meaningful reform that lowers their tax bill, allows them to invest in their business, create jobs, and grow the economy.”
Read more...

Revive CHIP; Stabilize the Health Insurance Market
National Governor’s Association
Following the Senate’s decision yesterday to move on from a broad health care reform bill, the National Governors Association (NGA) today released the following statement on the need to reauthorize the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and stabilize the nation’s health insurance markets:
Read more...

America’s Cities to Congress: NO to Eliminating Key Deductions that Support Cities and Families
National League of Cities
“America’s cities agree that our tax code is overly-complicated and in need of reform. We are glad to see Congress and the administration willing to streamline the tax system and lower tax rates, but this reform effort cannot eliminate the critical tools that enable cities to strengthen communities, make infrastructure investments and keep residents safe.
Read more...

Sen. Sanders, Lt. Gov. Newsom Stress Need for Single Payer Bills
National Nurses United
In a convention highlighted by Sen. Bernie Sanders and California Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom promoting single payer legislation federally and in California, some 500 California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee delegates unanimously reaffirmed their commitment to work to implement an improved and expanded Medicare for all Saturday.
Read more...

National Right to Life Urges Passage of Bill to Protect Pain-Capable Unborn Children
National Right to Life Committee
“This legislation has saved lives at a state level and would save thousands of unborn babies annually from terribly painful deaths,” said Jennifer Popik, J.D., National Right to Life legislative director. “Now is the time to say that these babies need to be protected across the country.”
Read more...

Alaskan Bus Driver Asks NLRB to Reconsider ‘Successor Bar’ That Blocks Removal of Unwanted Union
National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation
With free legal assistance from National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation staff attorneys, an Alaskan worker has asked the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to review a case in which she and her co-workers were denied the right to vote to remove a union claiming to represent them, despite the fact that a majority of the employees in the bargaining unit signed a petition to remove the union as their representative.
Read more...

Passing a Budget is Key to the Success of Tax Reform
National Taxpayers Union
Given the opposition from most Senate Democrats to the tax reform plan, the only realistic way that it can be passed into law is through budget reconciliation that prevents a Senate filibuster.
Read more...

National Urban League President Responds to President Trump's Criticism of National Anthem Protests
National Urban League
"Rather than disparaging Colin Kaepernick and other athletes in vulgar terms, President Trump should be addressing the systemic racism and police brutality that inspire their protests. Kapernick and others are part of a long American tradition of sports as a force for social change, including Jackie Robinson, Muhammad Ali, Tommie Smith and John Carlos, and Billie Jean King. Standing up - or kneeling down - for our ideals is the most patriotic of acts. We support the right of all athletes to free speech, and urge the President to pay more attention to the reason for their concerns rather than the manner in which they express them."
Read more...

ICE, NFL, Graham-Cassidy Bill, Planned Parenthood, Alabama, Election, Terrorism, Earthquake, Taxes, Drugs, Overtime Rule, Title IX

The links can be accessed on this page: http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/09/ice-nfl-graham-cassidy-bill-planned.html

Civil and Human Rights Organizations File Joint Complaint Against DHS on Behalf of Pregnant Women Detained by ICE
American Immigration Lawyer’s Association
AILA joined six other organizations filing a joint complaint today concerning ICE’s treatment of pregnant women in detention, highlighting inhumane conditions, inadequate medical care and failure to implement agency policy limiting the detention of pregnant women.
Read more...

The American Legion blasts NFL for disrespect
American Legion
The leader of the nation’s largest veterans organization characterized professional athletes and other Americans who fail to show respect for the national anthem as “misguided and ungrateful.”
Read more...

Planned Parenthood Obviously Celebrates Defeat of Graham-Cassidy Bill
American Life League
American Life League president Judie Brown stated: “Planned Parenthood's celebration over the defeat of the latest effort to repeal and replace Obamacare is but one more example of its demonic hatred for innocent babies, not to mention its disregard for mothers. We must work harder than ever to defund these bloodthirsty advocates of death by abortion.”
Read more...

APA Relieved Graham-Cassidy Bill Not Headed to Senate Vote, Encourages Bipartisan Solution to Health Care
American Psychiatric Association
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) today expressed its relief that the Graham-Cassidy bill, legislation that would have greatly harmed our patients, is not going to the Senate floor. GOP Senate leadership announced today that it did not have the votes to proceed.
Read more...

Maine Addiction Specialists Cheer Senator Collins’ Statement Opposing the Graham-Cassidy Proposal
American Society of Addiction Medicine
The Northern New England Society of Addiction Medicine (NNESAM), a Chapter of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), commends Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) for her bold, thoughtful, and compassionate statement opposing the Graham-Cassidy proposal to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA). As Senator Collins notes, the bill would have a devastating impact on the Medicaid program, which is the largest payer of addiction treatment services in the country, and would weaken protections for persons with pre-existing conditions like addiction.
Read more...

Roy Moore win in Alabama a victory for the Trump agenda
Americans for Limited Government
“This election turned into a battle between Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Judge Roy Moore largely due to the sheer volume and vitriol of the spending by McConnell’s Leadership PAC which dumped millions of wasted dollars in advertising attacking Moore and Rep. Mo Brooks during the primary process in favor of appointed incumbent Senator Luther Strange. The net McConnell effect was to nationalize the election as a referendum on him and the Washington, D.C. swamp as a whole. Trump tried to bail McConnell out by campaigning from Strange, but like Trump himself, Judge Moore had a well-known record of standing up for his beliefs even in the face of those who could and did politically punish him. And it is that kind of drain the swamp persona that drew voters to Trump in the first place.
Read more...

Center Catalogues Allegations of Qatar’s Terrorism Support
Center for Security Policy
Following the recent meeting of U.S. President Donald Trump’s and the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, the Center for Security Policy is proud to announce the publication of its most recent occasional paper, The Role of Select Non-Governmental Organizations in Doha’s Support for Terrorism.
Read more...

ALLIANCE FAMILY IMPACTED BY MEXICO EARTHQUAKES
Christian and Missionary Alliance
On Tuesday, September 19, a 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit Mexico City. Only a few days later on Saturday, September 23, two more earthquakes with magnitudes of 6.1 and 4.5 rattled Oaxaca, a few hundred miles southeast of the capital. 420 people have died, over 3,000 buildings are in danger of collapse, and more than $8 billion of damage has occurred so far as a result of these quakes.
Read more...

Evangelist Alveda King: America, Take the Knee
Christian Newswire
There are challenges with today's young people wanting to "take the knee" and turn their backs on our National Anthem and American Flag. As we honor our nation, it would be good to extend the tradition of honoring America, not by attacking cherished symbols, but by including everyone in the conversations on peace and nonviolence. I for one would like to see the Negro National Anthem (Lift Every Voice and Sing) included in tributes to our nation.
Read more...

CLUB FOR GROWTH LEADS COALITION URGING TRUMP TO END TAXATION OF “PHANTOM INCOME;” ENCOURAGES EXECUTIVE ORDER
Club for Growth
Club for Growth along with nearly 30 other conservative groups sent a letter to President Trump and Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin asking that they issue an executive order that would index capital gains to inflation so that taxpayers are no longer forced to pay taxes on “phantom” gains. In the letter, the conservative organizations explain that this Executive Order can essentially serve as a pro-growth “down payment” to help ignite the broader conversation of tax reform ahead of the Big Six’s proposal.
Read more...

Video: Regulatory Dark Matter: A hidden tax on consumers and businesses
Competitive Enterprise Institute
The Competitive Enterprise Institute released a video, “Regulatory Dark Matter,” which explains a new, dangerous tool government bureaucrats are using to circumvent the law and Congressional review of new regulations. There are tens of thousands of executive branch and independent agency actions including guidance documents, proclamations, memoranda, bulletins, circulars, letters and more that are subject to little scrutiny or democratic accountability but carry practical, binding regulatory effects.
Read more...

Outrageous 35% Anthem Rate Hike Could Have Been Prevented, Creates New Urgency For California Medicare-For-All Legislation, Says Consumer Watchdog
Consumer Watchdog
Anthem is raising rates on 135,000 California consumers who buy individual polices 35 percent because California is one of the few states without the ability to say no to unjustified rate hikes.
Read more...

New FBI Report Shows Drug Arrests Increased in 2016, As Drug War Rages On
Drug Policy Alliance
According to the FBI’s latest Uniform Crime Report released today, law enforcement agencies in the US made more than 1.57 million arrests for drug law violations in 2016, a 5.63% increase over the previous year. That’s one drug arrest every 20 seconds – and over three times more arrests than for all violent crimes combined.
Read more...

Leftist Agenda Attacks Christian Ministry's Online Donations
Earned Media
"This is now the FIFTH major company or service to terminate with us for the same reason. It began with Amazon Smile, which rejected us from its charitable services program because American Vision is listed on the Southern Poverty Law Center's ridiculous and notoriously biased 'hate group' list which is used to target conservative Christian organizations who dare to stand up for truth, liberty, and justice."
Read more...

EPI submits comments to DOL on overtime rule
Economic Policy Institute
EPI Policy Director Heidi Shierholz filed comments today with the Department of Labor in response to a Request for Information (RFI) on the overtime pay rule. Shierholz writes that that the 2016 update to the rule was critically needed because the overtime threshold—under which workers were guaranteed time-and-a-half for working more than forty hours a week—had been allowed to erode dramatically, and urges DOL not to weaken the rule.
Read more...

FACE OPPOSES NEW YORK’S LAW TO NOTATE TRANSCRIPTS OF TITLE IX DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
Families Advocating for Campus Equality (FACE)
Families Advocating for Campus Equality (FACE), a not for profit organization that advocates for fairness and due process on our college campuses, strongly opposes transcript notations of disciplinary actions involving sexual and intimate partner impropriety. Transcript notations are an unnecessarily punitive measure, akin to public shaming, that will serve to inflate the disciplinary action, a confidential process that is slim on due process and is conducted by students and faculty with no professional legal or judicial experience, into a life sentence so that the student is permanently barred from education and jobs
Read more...

==Support The Ponder News==

==Support The Ponder News==

Tax Reform, Graham-Cassidy Bill, Civil Rights, Immigrants, Hurricane Relief, Puerto Rico, Orange is the New Black

The Address to this page at The Ponder News is http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/09/tax-reform-graham-cassidy-bill-civil.html

Because the number of our sources has grown so much, (We now have a total of 753 Sources, and are adding more every day) we, at The Ponder have decided to stop posting individual news items -- except for editorial commentary and special notices. I hope you like our new format. There are just too many news items for our limited staff to go through each day to be able to continue doing the news as we have been.

New Poll: 7 in 10 Americans Say Passing Tax Reform Should Be A Priority For Congress
American Action Network
Ahead of the “Big Six” unveiling details on a tax reform plan, the American Action Network’s Middle-Class Growth Initiative (MCGI) released results from a national survey on Americans’ views on tax reform. The survey finds overwhelming support for passing comprehensive tax reform with 73% of Americans saying it should be a top priority or an important priority for Congress. Additionally, the survey found Americans, across party lines, view lowering middle-class tax rates as the most important tax reform initiative.
Read more...


AAFP to Congress: Time to Work on Bipartisan Health Care Legislation
American Academy of Family Physicians
"The American Academy of Family Physicians is pleased that the U.S. Senate has determined that they will not proceed with efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act. We applaud those Senators who rejected this proposal and stood up for health care coverage for people in their state. With today’s withdrawal of the Graham-Cassidy-Heller-Johnson amendment, we call on Congress to return to bipartisan negotiations aimed at amending and improving current law, not repealing it.
Read more...

ACLU COMMENT ON HOMELAND SECURITY NOTICE ON IMMIGRANTS’ SOCIAL MEDIA INFORMATION
American Civil Liberties Union
Faiz Shakir, American Civil Liberties Union national political director, had the following reaction to the Department of Homeland Security’s notice on immigrants’ social media information:
Read more...

AFSCME Pres. Lee Saunders Calls on Trump and Congress to Act on Puerto Rico
American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees
AFSCME Pres. Lee Saunders issued the following statement calling on President Trump and Congress to act on hurricane relief to Puerto Rico:
Read more...

AFT President Randi Weingarten on GOP’s Decision to Withdraw Graham-Cassidy
American Federation of Teachers
“Americans sent a message to Senate Republicans who thought a political win was more important than stripping millions of Americans of their healthcare: ‘Think again.’
Read more...

EVENT
Piper Kerman, Author of Orange is the New Black Keynotes American Probation and Parole Association
American Probation and Parole Association
The American Probation and Parole Association (APPA) will hold its 42nd Annual Training Institute at the Marriott Marquis-Times Square, August 27-30 with over 100 engaging sessions including three exciting keynotes. Piper Kerman, the author of the national best-selling memoir Orange Is The New Black: My Year in a Women’s Prison (Spiegel & Grau), will be featured at the opening session on Sunday, August 27th. Piper will discuss her personal experiences and the state of criminal justice in America.
Read more...

==Support The Ponder News==

==Support The Ponder News==

National Fair Housing Alliance Settles Race Discrimination Complaint with Real Estate Groups in Jackson, Mississippi

Source: National Fair Housing Alliance

Washington, D.C. - September 27, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- The National Fair Housing Alliance (NFHA) has settled a housing discrimination complaint with Lorgroup, LLC, DBA RE/MAX Alliance, and The Lee Garland and Rita Jensen Team (Lorgroup). The terms of the settlement will open up housing opportunities for African Americans purchasing homes in metropolitan Jackson, Mississippi. According to one analysis, Jackson is the third most segregated city in the U.S. Following allegations of housing discrimination from African Americans in Jackson, NFHA launched an investigation of how Whites and Blacks were treated when inquiring about purchasing homes. NFHA found differences in treatment based on race and filed a federal housing discrimination complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development against the agents and companies.

The investigation included telephone and in-person testing. Testing is an investigation tool in which similarly situated Blacks and Whites make inquiries about available housing. NFHA’s testing revealed that when potential White homebuyers sought housing in integrated and predominantly African American neighborhoods, they were steered away. Instead, White homebuyers were provided with a plethora of information and assistance to help them buy a home in a predominantly White area. Meanwhile, African American homebuyers often never even received a call back from an agent after leaving messages about purchasing a specific home in Jackson.

The differences in treatment uncovered in NFHA’s investigation are examples of how Whites and Blacks are steered to different housing opportunities based on the racial composition of a neighborhood. “Steering intentionally perpetuates residential segregation and is illegal under the Fair Housing Act,” said NFHA’s President and CEO, Shanna L. Smith. “This is why it is imperative that real estate companies work to expand equal housing opportunities for everyone. When people choose where they want to live without artificial and illegal barriers, our communities and neighborhoods are stronger, Smith continued.”

Lorgroup will pay $46,000 to NFHA, participate in fair housing trainings, and display fair housing signs in its offices. Additionally, Lorgroup has agreed to promote fair housing in the communities where it does business and to expand equal housing opportunities for all consumers. The settlement agreement will be monitored by HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. The original complaint was filed on September 15, 2015. The settlement was signed and approved by HUD on September 7, 2017.

Charles Harris, Executive Director of Jackson-based Housing Education and Economic Develop, Inc., said of the discrimination uncovered in the investigation, “Fair housing is the law, believe it or not. But housing discrimination is still alive and well. Any person or group that violates the Fair Housing Act must face the consequences.” Smith added, “This victory should send a strong message to real estate agents in the Jackson area that racial steering will not be tolerated and that their practices are being monitored. Furthermore, African American homebuyers should expect equal treatment and services when they are buying homes. If they suspect steering or if real estate agents refuse to return calls or work with them, they should contact the National Fair Housing Alliance at 1-800-910-7315 or 202-898-1661.”