Congressman Krishnamoorthi Responds To Price Resignation, Urges Next HHS Secretary To Cease Sabotage Of Affordable Care Act Protections

Washington, D.C. - October 2, 2017 - (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and Oversight Committee Ranking Member Elijah Cummings sent a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price regarding planned HealthCare.gov outages. Congressman Krishnamoorthi released the following statement in response to Secretary Price’s resignation:

“Health and Human Services Secretary Price’s decision to resign in the wake of his private jet scandal is the right one, and necessary to restore confidence in our public servants.

As Acting Secretary Don J. Wright steps into his new role, I urge him to fully comply with the request for documents that Ranking Member Cummings and I sent to the Secretary earlier today. Former Sec. Price’s decision to conduct maintenance outages on HealthCare.Gov during the open enrollment period has the potential to hinder millions of Americans as they purchase insurance on the federal exchange. Ranking Member Cummings and I are seeking documents regarding the decision to perform this maintenance during open enrollment, and have invited HHS officials to fully brief Congress on this proposal.

As the Senate moves to confirm President Trump’s new HHS nominee, I urge HELP Committee Senators to seek assurances that he or she will fully and faithfully execute all laws and not seek to undermine the protections of the Affordable Care Act. Over 9 million Americans – including over 300,000 in Illinois – depend on the smooth and regular functioning of HealthCare.Gov.“

More Statements on Tax Reform From House Representatives

REP. JENKINS STATEMENT ON TAX REFORM FRAMEWORK
Lynn Jenkins (R-KS, 2nd)
“This framework will serve as an outline as Congress takes an important step to reform our broken tax code and replace it with a simpler and fairer code. One that lowers rates for individuals and families so they save time and money doing their taxes and keep more of their hard-earned money. A tax code that helps jumpstart our economy and creates more opportunities for all Americans.
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REP. JOHNSON STATEMENT ON GOP TAX REFORM FRAMEWORK
Mike Johnson (R-LA, 4th)
“Our federal tax code is more than 60 times longer than the Bible, and it contains none of the Good News. It has been over 30 years since we updated the tax system, and it is well past time for reform. The Republican plan will create more jobs, fairer taxes and bigger paychecks for working-class Americans and small businesses. We must unleash the free market and get our economy back on track. Passing meaningful tax reform is a crucial first step in completing that mission.”
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Sam Johnson on Tax Reform Blueprint
Sam Johnson (R-TX, 3rd)
America’s current tax code is complicated and broken, and right now we have an opportunity to fundamentally reform it for the 21st Century. Not only does Washington have a much-needed chance to make the code simpler – which I strongly believe is necessary, but it’s an opportunity to enable businesses so they are better able to compete in the global economy. Even more important, tax reform should reward hardworking American families. This blueprint is a first step. We must get tax reform right, and I look forward to working with my fellow Ways and Means colleagues on behalf of America’s taxpayers.
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Rep. Kelly Praises Introduction of Unified Framework for Tax Reform
Mike Kelly (R-PA, 3rd)
“Today is a day to celebrate. With this framework, pro-growth tax reform is no longer just a lofty ambition but a concrete plan that is closer to realization than at any point in over three decades. This is a total win for America in every measurable way. For hardworking families and individuals, this means more take-home pay. For American companies, it means no longer having to pay the world’s highest tax rate but, instead, being able to create new jobs, increase wages, and compete globally on a level playing field. For everyone, it means a much stronger American economy supported by a fairer, simpler, more understandable tax code.
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STATEMENT: REP. KHANNA RESPONDS TO REPUBLICAN TAX PROPOSAL
Ro Khanna (D-CA, 17th)
“The tax reform proposal released today by the White House and congressional Republicans clearly demonstrates that they think it’s better to serve the interests of the very wealthy than everyday people. Shareholders and corporate executives do not need any more favors handed to them. Instead, Congress should commit to a reform plan that encourages economic gains by making the tax code fair for working families. I am also disappointed to see that Trump’s tax plan does away with the state and local tax deduction, which places a greater burden on the residents of California.
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KILDEE STATEMENT ON REPUBLICAN TAX FRAMEWORK
Daniel Kildee (D-MA, 5th)
“Unfortunately, the Republican plan gives the biggest breaks to the wealthiest Americans. Their plan ends the estate tax, giving a $269 billion tax break to just a few billionaire families, including the Trump and DeVos families. In the same breath, Republicans want middle class families to pay more by increasing state and local tax burdens.
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NY lawmakers decry Trump’s proposed loss of tax deductions
Pete King (R-NY, 2nd)
“It’s clear people on Long Island would definitely lose under this tax reform,” said Rep. Peter King (R-Seaford), who has joined other New York lawmakers in lobbying Republican leaders and the president on the issue. “That deduction is really essential.”
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Read even more statements on these pages

House Passes Disaster Tax Relief and Airport and Airway Extension Act

Washington, D.C. - October 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3823, the Disaster Tax Relief and Airport and Airway Extension Act. This bill reauthorizes the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Teaching Health Centers program, as well as provides disaster relief for victims of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria.

LaMalfa said: “With funding expiring on September 30th, it was important to extend authorization for the FAA and prevent nationwide employee furloughs and project halts. In addition, contained in the bill is reauthorization for the Teaching Health Centers program which is particularly important in rural areas, like Northern California, where doctor shortages are a real problem. This program has been an effective tool to address that.

This legislation also increases availability of flood insurance in high risk areas and provides a tax break to our neighbors in the South, who have been severely impacted by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria in recent months. This is a timely and important bill, and I hope the Senate will put it on the President’s desk as quickly as possible.”

H.R. 3823, the Disaster Tax Relief and Airport and Airway Extension Act does the following:

Reauthorizes the Federal Aviation Administration and several aviation programs through March 31, 2018.

Reauthorizes Teaching Health Centers and Graduate Medical Education program.

Allows for emergency tax relief for victims of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria.

Requires that federally-backed mortgages must have flood insurance if they are in flood hazard areas and reinforces that private flood insurance counts as valid flood insurance as long as that policy is state-approved.

Trump Administration’s Refugee Ceiling for FY 2018

Washington, D.C. - October 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and Immigration and Border Security Subcommittee Chairman Raúl Labrador (R-Idaho) met with Department of State Secretary Rex Tillerson and Department of Homeland Security Acting Secretary Elaine Duke regarding the Trump Administration’s refugee ceiling for Fiscal Year 2018. Chairman Goodlatte and Subcommittee Chairman Labrador issued the statements below on today’s meeting and the Trump Administration’s plans to set the refugee ceiling at 45,000 for the coming year.

Chairman Goodlatte: “For generations, the United States has been a safe haven for those around the world fleeing persecution in their home countries. The Trump Administration’s refugee ceiling for the coming year maintains our nation’s generosity toward those in need, and importantly, ensures limited resources are used wisely and our citizens are protected in light of ongoing terrorist threats. Administration officials have indicated that many immigration officers processing refugee applications have been diverted to handle the large asylum backlog that occurred under the Obama Administration. The Trump Administration is acting responsibly to continue both of these humanitarian programs by reducing the asylum backlog and also committing itself to resettle tens of thousands of refugees in the United States.

“While I welcome the Trump Administration’s plans for refugee resettlement for the coming year, it is imperative that Congress reform our nation’s refugee program by passing the Refugee Program Integrity Restoration Act. This bill provides tools to curb fraud, strengthen national security, and enhance public safety. I urge the House and Senate to take up this bill and send it to the President’s desk so that our nation’s generosity toward refugees continues and bad actors are prevented from gaming the system.”

Subcommittee Chairman Labrador: “I welcome the Trump Administration’s decision to reduce the annual refugee ceiling to a more manageable level. While the Obama Administration increased the refugee ceiling at a time when security threats from abroad were growing, President Trump is exercising smart leadership by putting the safety of the American people first. America has a proud tradition of helping refugees who, through no fault of their own, are fleeing war and persecution and wish to become contributing members of our society. However, there are already documented cases of terrorists infiltrating the refugee program, and ISIS is vowing to exploit it further. Reforming America’s refugee program is a critical issue, and the time for action is now. I have introduced legislation, the Refugee Program Integrity Act, which enhances refugee screening, curbs fraud, and gives states and communities a voice in refugee settlement decisions. The House Judiciary Committee approved by bill in June and I am hopeful it will get a floor vote soon.”

In June, the House Judiciary Committee approved the Refugee Program Integrity Restoration Act (H.R. 2826). This bill, authored by Immigration and Border Security Subcommittee Raúl Labrador and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte, reforms the refugee program by curbing fraud and strengthening public safety and national security. It also provides state and local governments the power to decide if refugees are to be resettled within their communities and gives Congress, not the President, the authority to set the overall refugee ceiling for each year. A summary of the bill can be found here.

KUSTOFF LEADS 228 BIPARTISAN MEMBERS OF CONGRESS IN OPPOSING PROPOSED CHANGES TO 340B

Washington, D.C. - October 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- On Wednesday, September 27, 2017, U.S. Representatives David Kustoff (R-TN), Mike Thompson (D-CA) and David P. McKinley (R-W. VA) led 228 bipartisan members of Congress in sending a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma urging the administration to withdraw its harmful proposal to levy cuts on certain hospitals participating in the 340B Drug Pricing Program (340B program).

“For 25 years, the 340B program has expanded vital health services to our rural and low-income communities in West Tennessee,” said Kustoff. “CMS’s proposed rule change would slash funding and strip safety net hospitals of the ability to serve those who need medical care the most. We must responsibly address rising prescription drug costs without putting the most vulnerable patients at risk. I hope this overwhelming, bipartisan opposition to the 340B rule change demonstrates the significance of supporting rural and safety net hospitals.”

On July 13, 2017, CMS released the outpatient prospective payment system (OPPS) proposed rule for 2018. The rule would dramatically cut the reimbursement rate for Medicare Part B drugs purchased by certain hospitals covered under the 340B program. These cuts jeopardize care for millions by directly reducing revenue to safety net hospitals that care for vulnerable patents in underserved and rural communities, without addressing the underlying price of the drugs.

Since 1992, the 340B program has leveraged mandated discounts offered by drug manufacturers to help hospitals and other covered entities provide discounted drugs and lifesaving services to their patients. CMS’ proposed rule will eliminate funding that hospitals use to support the unreimbursed cost of care for those who need it the most.

Click here for full text of the letter.

Internet in Every American Home

Washington, D.C. - October 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congresswoman Robin Kelly, ranking member of the IT subcommittee of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, joined the Democratic Caucus’ push to ensure that every American home has Internet access. An estimated 9 percent of all Illinoisans and 56 percent of rural Illinoisans, lack broadband Internet access.

“Access to the Internet opens new doors of opportunity for Americans. From attending college and learning new farming techniques to keeping up with the news, family and friends, the Internet is a vital source of information that should be accessible to all American families. But too many, Illinoisans and Illinois small businesses are locked out of these opportunities and the 21st century economy because they don’t have quality, high-speed Internet access,” said Congresswoman Kelly. “It’s time to bridge the digital divide, especially for rural and underserved communities.”

Today, Congressional Democrats unveiled their plan to invest billions in bringing quality, high-speed Internet access to more than 34 million Americans. Two-thirds of those living without high-speed Internet live in rural communities. Our plan also includes funding to modernize the nation’s aging 9-1-1 system.

“I support this initiative because a Will County small business should be able to sell their products to consumers all over the world,” added Congresswoman Kelly. “A student in Windsor Park should be able to complete her homework assignment at home, instead of going to school early or trying to find a library with Internet access.”

Congresswoman Kelly has worked extensively to bring Internet access and Internet-based opportunities to the Second Congressional District.

In March, she led the effort to bring WiFi connectivity to Pembroke Township and Hopkins Park. The project was completed using only companies from Illinois and thanks to a strong partnership with local and county leaders and businesses. In May 2016, she effectively worked to close the WiFi “hole” in Chicago’s South Shore neighborhood.

“While the majority of Americans without quality, high-speed Internet access live in rural communities, the challenge of closing the digital divide exist in all communities and neighborhoods, urban, suburban and rural,” noted Congresswoman Kelly.

Additionally, the Congresswoman is working to modernize government technologies, ensure mobile-friendly government websites and empower communities to recruit and retain high-tech businesses, incubators and career training programs.

JONES KEEPS UP THE FIGHT AGAINST COMMUNIST CHINESE TAKEOVER OF AMERICAN MARKETS

Washington, D.C. - October 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Walter B. Jones (NC-3) is continuing to push the federal government to protect American financial markets from communist China. Twice in the past year, Congressman Jones has sounded the alarm with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) about the proposed takeover of the Chicago Stock Exchange (CHX) by a Chinese firm – Chongqing Casin Enterprise Group (CCEG). On August 9th, 2017, the SEC put the deal on hold pending further review. Last week, Congressman Walter B. Jones (NC-3) and 17 of his congressional colleagues wrote to the leaders of the commission to thank them for their delay of the proposed takeover, and to again ask them to ultimately block it.

“Stopping this deal is just common sense,” said Congressman Jones. “Why would America ever give communist Chinese a key piece of our financial markets?”

The letter specifically states, “…this transaction would expose our markets to new vulnerabilities as a result of potential undue and unnecessary state influence from the Chinese government. Public trust in the integrity and security of our financial markets is the bedrock of our national security, and it will be impossible for the SEC to fully monitor Chinese government involvement or manipulation over the Chicago Exchange.”

Congressman Jones has consistently fought against the efforts of communist China to buy strategic American businesses. In 2013, Congressman Jones fought the Chinese purchase of Smithfield Foods, Inc., the world’s largest pork producer and processer. Despite his efforts, the merger was finalized and was the largest-ever acquisition of an American corporation by a Chinese company.

Bill Johnson Introduces the POWER Act

Washington, D.C. - October 1, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Bill Johnson (R-Marietta) released the following statement after introducing H.R. 3846, the Providing Opportunities with Energy Revenues (POWER) Counties Act:

“There is little doubt that Eastern and Southeastern Ohio are at the center of America’s energy renaissance. Energy development is having a positive impact on virtually every sector of our economy, including education. Our students are learning about the many job opportunities that have arrived – and will continue to arrive – resulting from the oil and gas boom. Schools are expanding their programs to help prepare students for new and exciting careers here at home, where they have been raised and educated.

“As it stands now, the federal government, and some states, receive revenue in the form of royalties and permit fees from energy companies that develop energy on federally owned land, such as the Wayne National Forest. However, Ohio counties do not directly receive any of this revenue. This is wrong, and the POWER Act, which I introduced today, would remedy this. My legislation calls for 20% of this revenue to be redirected back to the counties where those federal lands are located, where the funding can be used to support education initiatives and infrastructure improvements. This is a simple issue of fairness, and there would be no additional expense to the taxpayer.

“I am hopeful the House of Representatives will soon debate this bill and pass it. Because you – the hardworking taxpayers - deserve to share the benefits derived from energy development on local lands.”

HUNTER REQUESTS PRESIDENTIAL PARDONS FOR FORMER BORDER PATROL AGENTS

Source: House Representative Duncan D. Hunter (R-CA, 50th)

Washington, D.C. - September 27, 2017 (The Ponder News) -- Congressman Duncan Hunter (CA-50) sent a letter to President Trump requesting a presidential pardon for former Border Patrol Agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean who were sentenced to federal prison in 2006 for assault against the drug smuggler they were apprehending in the performance of their jobs. While President Bush commuted their 10-year sentence in 2009, these agents remain convicted felons adversely affecting their employment opportunities and quality of life.

“These agents were in process of apprehending an illegal alien smuggling over 700 pounds of drugs into our country,” said Congressman Hunter. “In the course of a struggle, and in what appeared to be the suspect brandishing a weapon, these agents fired their guns and hit him in the backside as he escaped back into Mexico. Rather than reward these agents for their $1 million seizure, a U.S. Attorney offered the drug smuggler immunity in exchange for testimony to prosecute and convict them. President Bush’s actions got Ramos and Compean out of prison and I’m calling on President Trump to take the next step and give these agents their lives back.”

Congressman Hunter’s letter comes after President Trump exercised his authority earlier this year to pardon former Arizona Sherriff Joe Arpaio. Both Ramos and Compean were veterans of the U.S. Border Patrol with unblemished service records and Agent Ramos had previously been nominated for Border Patrol Agent of the Year. Conversely, the drug smuggler, Mr. Aldrete-Davila, was captured again after this incident and pleaded guilty to multiple drug charges, including possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute.

Congressman Hunter's letter to President Trump can be viewed here.

Seniors, Elections, DACA, NFL, Tom Price, Puerto Rico, Tax Reform, health care, Environment, Medicare, Homeland Security, Hemp, Fire Fighters

The Ponder News
September 30, 2017
(If you are receiving this via email, you may access all the links at:
http://thepondernews.blogspot.com/2017/09/seniors-elections-daca-nfl-tom-price.html )

Daily Quote:
Just because the numbers say one thing doesn't mean one number can't change everything. -- Shonda Ponder, editor

Seniors

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REPS. FRANKEL, ROS-LEHTINEN INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO PROTECT SENIORS DURING NATURAL DISASTERS
Lois Frankel (D-FL, 22nd)
Representatives Lois Frankel (FL-21), and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (FL-27) introduced a bipartisan bill, the Protecting Seniors During Disasters Act, to analyze how senior citizens and nursing home residents can be better cared for during natural disasters. Senators Bill Nelson and Marco Rubio introduced a companion bill in the Senate.
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Elections

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Rep. Trent Franks Reacts to AL Senate GOP Primary Results
Trent Franks (R-AR, 8th)
"This election is nothing but a rebuke of business-as-usual by the Senate and the arcane, extra-Constitutional filibuster that Democrats use to turn Republican bills into left-wing gobbledygook then force it down the throat of the American voter."
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DACA

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Rep. Gabbard on Twitter: Empowering DACA Recipients in Hawaii
Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI, 2nd)
1/Congress must pass permanent solution to #DACA. Young ppl brought to the US as minors through no choice of their own should not be deported
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REPS. ROYBAL-ALLARD, LUJAN GRISHAM, GUTIÉRREZ STATEMENT ON OCTOBER 5TH DACA DEADLINE
Luis Gutierrez (D-IL, 4th)
“The Trump Administration first rescinded DACA, upending the lives of nearly 800,000 Dreamers, young patriots who have done everything right. Then, DHS proceeded to issue an unrealistic and arbitrary DACA renewal deadline of October 5th. This meant that 154,000 Dreamers had 30 days to find legal assistance, fill out renewal paperwork and pay a $495 fee or risk losing their status and getting deported. DHS has not done any outreach or provided support to these 154,000 Dreamers to ensure they can meet this unrealistic deadline and keep their status. Instead, DHS Acting Secretary Duke has chosen to undermine DACA renewal efforts by creating more fear by stating that DACA recipient data can be shared with ICE.
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NFL

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Gaetz Tells NFL Tax Breaks to Take a Knee
Matt Gaetz (R-FL, 1st)
The NFL League Office has received a special tax carveout since 1966, when the tax code first listed “professional football leagues” as trade organizations. Though individual teams are not tax-exempt, the NFL League Office is. They are responsible for the construction and development of new stadiums, paid for with over 6.5 billion taxpayer dollars. Tax-exempt revenues for professional sports leagues are higher than $2 billion. According to the Internal Revenue Service, businesses that conduct operations for profit on a “cooperative basis” should not qualify for tax-exempt treatment, yet a special exemption is made for professional football leagues.
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Tom Price

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Rep. Ruben Gallego Statement on the Possible Firing of HHS Secretary Tom Price
Ruben Gallego (D-AZ, 7th)
“There is a culture of corruption in the Trump administration. Whether it’s unqualified hacks like Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke spending taxpayer money on private jet flights in the Caribbean, or otherwise qualified longtime public servants like David Shulkin going to Wimbledon and taking a European river cruise on the people’s dime, the dishonesty and depravity is pervasive.
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HHS Secretary Tom Price resigns amid criticism for taking charter flights at taxpayer expense
Washington Post
Tom Price, President Trump’s embattled health and human services secretary, resigned Friday amid sharp criticism of his extensive use of taxpayer-funded charter flights, the White House said.
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Puerto Rico

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Reps. Hunter and Garamendi Raise Concerns Over the Trump Administration’s Decision to Waive the Jones Act
John Garamendi (D-CA, 3rd)
Congressman Duncan Hunter (R-CA) and John Garamendi (D-CA), Chairman and Ranking Member respectively of the Subcommittee on the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, raised concerns over the Trump Administration’s decision to issue a 10-day waiver of the Jones Act to allegedly improve the flow of relief shipments into Puerto Rico. The Jones Act requires that goods traveling between U.S. ports of call be carried on U.S.-made and U.S.-flagged ships and manned by American crews. Contrary to many published reports, adequate domestic shipping capability exists, and waiving the Jones Act requirement will not speed up relief for Puerto Rico.
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Tax Reform

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Goodlatte Statement on Tax Reform Framework
Bob Goodlatte (R-VA, 6th)
“It’s been 30 years since the last major tax code overhaul. In that time the tax code as we know it has only grown more complex and unfair. Congress has the opportunity to create a tax system that works for the American people, and it’s important that we act now. The tax reform framework unveiled today is a positive step forward in getting tax reform signed into law that lowers rates for individuals and families and helps level the playing field for American businesses. I look forward to reviewing the legislative text produced by the House Ways and Means Committee as this process continues. We must provide tax relief that creates a simpler, fairer tax code, allows hardworking families to keep more of their money, and encourages businesses to invest in the United States.”
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Rep. Tom Graves Statement on Tax Reform Framework
Tom Graves (R-GA, 14th)
“This framework turns the page on our complicated and broken tax system. It’s simpler, flatter and fairer than the current tax code. It will put more money in the pockets of hard-working Americans. It also promotes economic growth and private-sector job creation by slashing the corporate tax rate – currently the highest in the developed world – and ensuring fair treatment for small businesses. Congress needs to get the final product to the president’s desk as quickly as possible.”
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REP. HARPER STATEMENT ON REPUBLICANS’ UNIFIED FRAMEWORK FOR TAX REFORM
Gregg Harper (R-MS, 3rd)
“Today, with the help of the President, Congress has taken a huge step towards fixing our country’s broken tax code and bringing real reform to middle-class families, small businesses, and Mississippi’s family farms who cannot afford to keep the current system any longer,” said Harper. “This plan is aimed at delivering a simpler, fairer tax system that will create jobs, grow our economy, and deliver much-needed relief to the hardworking men and women who are hurting under the burdensome tax code.”
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Hartzler Statement on Newly Unveiled Tax Reform Plan
Vicky Hartzler (R-MO, 4th)
Our tax reform plan will immediately benefit the average American and small business owner. For example, a farmer can now buy a tractor and immediately expense the cost of this new investment, and the maximum tax rate for small and family-owned businesses will drop down to 25 percent. Families will see an increase in their child deduction tax credit, and most Americans will now be able to fill out their taxes on a paper the size of a postcard. The days of spending hours poring over complicated documents and exemptions will be replaced by a simpler system with much lower taxes for small businesses and the middle class.
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Hensarling Statement on Tax Reform Framework
Jeb Hensarling (R-TX, 5th)
“Texans and Americans are sick of the status quo in Washington. From Mesquite to Rusk, our citizens are crying out for relief from our complicated and onerous tax code. Today, Republicans are answering the call by offering a solution to fix our broken system with meaningful reforms.
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Rep. Hice Comments on Tax Reform
Jody Hice (R-GA, 10th)
“I really like what I’m seeing so far with the tax reform framework,” said Congressman Hice. “This bold, new proposal is just the first step toward creating a system that is both competitive and fair. I’m pleased that it will empower Americans to take home more of their hard-earned paychecks and enable businesses of all sizes to grow and thrive. We're moving in the right direction, and I'm proud to be a part of this long overdue reform effort. As the tax-writing committees continue to flesh out the specific legislation, I look forward to being a partner in the discussion so we can send a final bill to President Trump’s desk as soon as possible.”
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STATEMENT BY CONGRESSMAN BRIAN HIGGINS ON TAX REFORM FRAMEWORK
Brian Higgins (D-NY, 26th)
“Over the past several decades we’ve seen a stark gap between the very wealthy and struggling Americans. The McConnell/Ryan tax proposal only serves to broaden that divide. A plan centered on the failed trickle-down premise delivers greater tax benefits for millionaires at the expense of hard-working middle-class families.
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Higgins Issues Statement on Tax Reform Framework
Clay Higgins (R-LA, 3rd)
It’s been more than three decades since we’ve reformed our tax code. The current 74,608-page federal tax code is outdated and overly complex. American families deserve to keep more of their hard-earned paychecks, and we need bold reform to really grow our economy. That’s what this GOP foundational tax reform framework delivers. Of course, my colleagues and I will engage in vigorous debate regarding details and concerns, and this initial framework will change. However, this cornerstone upon...which we will build...does indeed reflect a fairer, simpler tax code that strengthens our economy, creates job growth, and allows individual Americans, as well as all American businesses, to keep more of what they’ve earned. I strongly support significant reform of our tax code so that everyday American families and small businesses can take charge of their finances and spend, save, or invest however they see fit. I urge all of my colleagues, on both sides of the aisle to come together and get this thing done for all Americans.
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Hill’s Statement on Republicans’ Tax Reform Framework
French Hill (R-AR, 2nd)
“We need a tax code that supports American families while promoting financial growth and giving our businesses the certainty needed to grow, expand, and create jobs for Arkansans and Americans. The tax code and its regulations have grown to over 70,000 pages. There is nothing simple or fair about that. It’s been over 30 years since we’ve made any significant changes to the tax code, and it’s time to deliver a simpler, flatter, and fairer tax system.
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HUDSON SUPPORTS TAX CUTS FOR WORKING PEOPLE
Richard Hudson (R-NC, 8th)
“We can all agree our current tax system is broken and too complex. It shouldn’t be that way. It should be so simple that most Americans can do their taxes on a postcard. The bottom line: fixing our tax code means more money in your pocket, and more jobs."
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Huizenga: Reforming the Tax Code Will Improve the Lives of all Michiganders
Bill Hulzinga (R-MI, 2nd)
“The tax reform framework released today is a positive first step in the effort to deliver much needed tax relief. The next step is to take this framework and meet with local manufacturers, agricultural producers, and families across West Michigan to get their input,” said Congressman Huizenga. “By doubling the standard deduction, low and moderate income families across West Michigan will be able keep more of their hard earned money. By reducing tax rates on small businesses, West Michigan job creators will be able to grow, export more goods, and create good-paying jobs here at home. Lastly, this proposal will help families save for college, purchase a home, or plan for retirement depending on their stage in life. I look forward to working with the President to grow our nation’s middle class as well as our economy by making the tax code simpler, fairer, and more competitive.”
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Hultgren Welcomes Tax Reform Blueprint to Fix Broken Tax Code and Restore Jobs and Hard-Earned Resources to Working Americans
Randy Hultgren (R-IL, 14th)
“Our current tax system does not reflect our workforce or our economy. It is costly and time consuming for individuals and families, and hurts the ability of Americans businesses to grow and create new jobs. We need real reforms that simplify the tax code, lower taxes on all Americans and their families and stimulate job growth,” said Rep. Hultgren. “I am very encouraged by this significant step toward reforming a tax code that for too long has obstructed economic growth in this country.
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Health Care

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Griffith Bill Would Save Taxpayers $3.4 Billion, According to New Study
Morgan Griffith (R-VA, 9th)
“Paying pharmacists what they are promised is only fair. Ending retroactive payment reductions would let pharmacists, especially in rural areas, focus on serving their customers, and, according to the study, it would save the Federal Government billions. Wakely Group Study shows that customers, pharmacists, and taxpayers would all benefit.”
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Environment

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Rep. Gene Green Requests Answers Following EPA Report of Dioxin Exposure at the San Jacinto River Waste Pits
Gene Green (D-TX, 29th)
“The health of the people and the communities impacted by Hurricane Harvey are my upmost concern,” said Green. “The San Jacinto River Waste Pits continue to be a threat to public health and the environment for communities near the site. The damage to the cap and exposure of dioxin, a cancer-causing pollutant, in the San Jacinto River is unacceptable. After this announcement, it is clearer than ever, that Administration Pruitt must follow through on the EPA’s recommendations last year and fully remove the waste pits.”
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Homeland Security

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Grijalva: DHS Program Targeting Social Media Data of Immigrants is Orwellian
Raul Grijalva (D-AZ, 3rd)
Rep. Grijalva released the following statement after reports confirmed that the Department of Homeland Security has submitted a new regulation into the Federal Register to begin collecting social media data and histories to add to the files of U.S. immigrants as soon as October 18th. Individuals that will be susceptible to this overreaching surveillance program include permanent residents, naturalized citizens and all other immigrants living in the United States. Rep. Grijalva’s statement also comes after recent revelations that the Department of Justice is seeking the personal information of Facebook users who are “anti-administration activists.”
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Hemp

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Grothman Cosponsors Bill to Legalize Industrial Hemp
Glenn Grothman (R-WI, 6th)
Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) today joined nine other Republicans and fifteen Democrats as a co-sponsor of Rep. James Comer’s (R-Ky.) Industrial Hemp Farming Act (H.R. 3530). H.R. 3530 amends The Controlled Substances Act to exclude industrial hemp from the definition of marihuana.
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Fire Fighters

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REPS. HOYER, PASCRELL, KING, REICHERT, JOHNSON INTRODUCE BILL REAUTHORIZING FIRE SERVICE GRANT PROGRAMS
Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD, 5th)
Each year more than one million fire and emergency services personnel respond to over 30 million emergency calls across the country. This bipartisan legislation would ensure that our over 30,000 fire departments continue to have access to the necessary training, equipment, and staffing to conduct emergency response missions and to continue to reduce community risk.
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