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Year-End Report
NASCAR Adds Second Race to North Texas Venue
Posted by Michelle Stein on May 17, 2004
On Friday, NASCAR announced that they will have a second race day at Texas Motor Speedway. “I am thrilled that the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series has selected the Texas Motor Speedway for another amazing race,” commented Rep. Michael Burgess (TX-26) upon hearing the news. The NASCAR races bring international recognition to Fort Worth as well as a massive influx in tourism. Traditionally, the Texas Motor Speedway brings in over 200,000 race fans into North Texas which, in turn, has an amazing economic benefit for local patrons. The first race, usually held in early April, crowds restaurants, hotels and attractions. The City of Fort Worth, the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, and the Fort Worth Convention and Visitors Bureau, along with Denton County and the Chambers from Lewisville and Northlake, commissioned an economic impact study to measure the Speedway's contributions to the local economy. That study, released just over a month ago, revealed some truly staggering numbers. Roughly $2 billion in economic activity generated since the Speedway opened in 1997, $214 million estimated in 2004 alone. All these figures were based upon the speedway having one NASCAR NEXTEK Cup Series race each year. The study estimates the value of this second NASCAR Nextel Cup Series race to be nearly $300 million to the region over the next four years. “I look forward to enjoying the roar of the engines twice a year,” stated Rep. Burgess. “It comes as no surprise to me that NASCAR would want to come back to the 26th District for a second race at Texas Motor Speedway. North Texas has it all.”
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Burgess Leads the House on the Pledge
Posted by on May 17, 2004
Click here to watch Rep. Burgess lead the Pledge of Allegiance from the House Floor.
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We Must Fix Medical Liability
Posted by on May 17, 2004
Click here to watch the video.
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H.Con.Res 420 - National Transportation Week
Posted by on May 17, 2004
Approved, 360-0 Burgess voted YES Title:Applauding the men and women who keep America moving and recognizing National Transportation Week. Sponsor: Rep Young, Don [AK] (introduced 5/11/2004) Cosponsors: 1 Committees: House Transportation and Infrastructure; Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Latest Major Action: 5/20/2004 Passed/agreed to in Senate. Status: Resolution agreed to in Senate without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY AS OF: 5/11/2004--Introduced. Declares that the 108th Congress: (1) applauds the men and women who keep America moving; (2) recognizes National Transportation Week by supporting the goals of that Week; and (3) urges all Americans to become more aware of the benefits and contributions of transportation to the U.S. economy.
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H.Con.Res. 423 - National World War II Memorial
Posted by on May 17, 2004
Approved, 364-0 Burgess voted YES H.CON.RES.423 Title:Authorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for activities associated with the dedication of the National World War II Memorial. Sponsor: Rep Kaptur, Marcy [OH-9] (introduced 5/13/2004) Cosponsors: (none) Committees: House Transportation and Infrastructure Latest Major Action: 5/21/2004 Passed/agreed to in Senate. Status: Resolution agreed to in Senate without amendment by Unanimous Consent. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY AS OF: 5/13/2004--Introduced. Authorizes the use of the Capitol Grounds for a free public event providing additional space in conjunction with the dedication of the National World War II Memorial on May 29, 2004, or on such other date as the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate may jointly designate. Authorizes the Architect of the Capitol to: (1) erect on Capitol Grounds such stage, sound amplification devices, and other related structures and equipment as may be required; and (2) make any such additional arrangements, together with the Capitol Police Board, that may be required to carry out the event.
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H.Con.Res. 403 - Condemning the Government of the Republic of the Sudan for its attacks against innocent civilians in the impoverished Darfur region of western Sudan
Posted by on May 17, 2004
H.CON.RES.403 Approved, 360-1 Burgess voted YES Title:Condemning the Government of the Republic of the Sudan for its attacks against innocent civilians in the impoverished Darfur region of western Sudan. Sponsor: Rep Wolf, Frank R. [VA-10] (introduced 4/1/2004) Cosponsors: 96 Committees: House International Relations; Senate Foreign Relations Related Bills: S.CON.RES.99 Latest Major Action: 5/18/2004 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY AS OF: 4/1/2004--Introduced. States that Congress: (1) condemns the Government of the Republic of Sudan for its attacks on innocent civilians in the Darfur region of Sudan and demands their cessation; (2) calls on the international community to condemn such attacks and demand their cessation; and (3) urges the President to direct the United States representative to the United Nations to seek an official investigation into whether Sudan has committed crimes against humanity in Darfur. Search Results > H.CON.RES.403 > CRS Summary
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The Burgess Bulletin - May 2004
Posted by on May 15, 2004
Rep. Burgess Named Chairman of the Health Subcommittee for the Republican Policy Committee

Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. has been named Chairman of the Health Subcommittee for the Republican Policy Committee. Rep. Burgess was appointed by Policy Chairman Christopher Cox (CA-48) and approved by House Speaker Denny Hastert to fill the position recently vacated by former Rep. Ernie Fletcher, M.D. of Kentucky who recently was elected governor. Dr. Burgess is the first and only freshman to Chair a House GOP Policy Subcommittee for the 108th Congress. “With his medical expertise, sound policy judgment and talent for achieving results, Dr. Burgess was the clear choice to lead the health subcommittee,” stated Policy Chairman Christopher Cox. Dr. Michael Burgess, a resident of Lewisville, was a doctor of obstetrics and gynecology for over 20 years before being elected to Congress in 2002. Representing the 26th Congressional District, Rep. Burgess has been active in Washington focusing on improving America’s health care system. “I am privileged to be singled out for my work on health care issues,” stated Rep. Michael Burgess upon hearing of his section. “It is a great honor to work for the policy committee and a unique opportunity for a freshman member.” The Republican Policy Committee develops sound legislative ideas into sound bills. Making quality health care more accessible and affordable for America is among Congress' top goals-and the Health Policy Subcommittee's mission. "I believe Dr. Burgess brings a depth of first-hand knowledge and fresh ideas to the subcommittee," commented House Speaker J. Dennis Hastert (R-IL). "He understands the fundamental issues surrounding America's health care system and can forward 21st Century thinking to help solve many challenges facing both patients and providers." Patients' rights, prescription drug benefits, better treatments, fewer medical errors and healthier Americans require thoughtful policy leadership--the Health Subcommittee provides it. The Policy Subcommittee on Health has jurisdiction over House GOP policy as it affects public and private health facilities; healthcare tax policy; the Medicare and Medicaid programs; healthcare activities of the Department of Health and Human Services; and activities of the National Institutes of Health. Congressman Michael Burgess: /News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=3273 The House Republican Policy Committee: http://policy.house.gov/html/subcommittees.cfm Congressman Michael Burgess on Health Care: /Issues/ Rep. Burgess Announces 2004 Congressional Art Competition Winners May 7, 2004 U.S. Congressman Michael Burgess (TX-26) announced the winner of the second annual 26th Congressional District art competition, “An Artistic Discovery.” A freshman at Lewisville High School North, Arturo Noyola, won first prize in the 2004 competition with his oil pastel entitled “Blue Clouds of Freedom.” The art competition was open to public and private high school students residing in the district. “This contest is designed to highlight the artistic achievements of our local high school students and to share the results of those talents with our area and the rest of the country,” Rep. Michael Burgess said. “Arturo’s work makes the 26th District proud. He is an extremely talented young man with a tremendous gift.” Arturo’s work will be displayed in the United States Capitol complex for the coming year. A ribbon-cutting ceremony opening the national 2004 “An Artistic Discovery” exhibition will take place to honor the winning artists from all over the country. Rebecca Cheek of Southwest Airlines presented Noyola with plane tickets for him and a family member to fly to Washington, DC to attend the unveiling celebration on July 13, 2004. Noyola will also be receiving a $100 savings bond from Bank One. Arturo is an art student of KarYn Lee at Lewisville High School North and the son of Alma Aguirre of Lewisville. Three Honorable Mention winners were also announced and their artworks will be displayed in Congressman Burgess’ Lewisville District Office: Willette Griffin of Carrollton, representing Hebron High School; Abbie Marshall of Flower Mound, representing Coram Deo Academy; and Liz Schmiedel of Southlake, representing Carroll High School. The Honorable Mention winners will be receiving $50 savings bonds from Bank One. Rep. Michael Burgess, Alma Aguirre (Arturo's mother), Arturo Noyola, KarYn Lee (Arturo's art teacher at LHSN) Rep. Burgess Seeks United States Service Academy Applicants U.S. Congressman Michael C. Burgess (TX-26) announces that requests for application from students interested in attending the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York, U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland, the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York are being accepted for the class entering in the summer of 2005. “The United States Service Academies offer a top notch education for those who have the desire to serve our county,” said Congressman Michael Burgess. “I am honored to be able to recommend local students who are dedicated to the peace and security of the United States and will one day serve our country with distinction.” For more information, please contact Robin Vaughan in the Lewisville Office at (972) 434-9700 or visit my website at: http://burgess.house.gov. OTHER NEWS… NASCAR Adds Second Race to North Texas Venue May 17, 2004 National Safe Boating Council Present Burgess with Confluence Award May 19, 2004 TOWN HALL SCHEDULE Highland Village/Copper Canyon July 17, 2004 10:00 a.m. Highland Village City Hall, City Council Chambers 1000 Highland Village Road Highland Village, TX 75077 Euless/Hurst/North Richland Hills/Bedford July 17, 2004 1:00 p.m. Euless City Hall, City Council Chambers 201 N. Ector Drive Euless, TX 76039 Southlake/Keller/Westlake/Colleyville July 24, 2004 10:00 a.m. Southlake Town Hall, 3rd Floor 1400 Main Street Southlake, TX 76092 Denton/Argyle July 24, 2004 10:00 a.m. University of North Texas, Gateway Center 1st Floor Ballroom #34 801 North Texas Blvd. Denton, TX 76201 Flower Mound/Double Oak/Bartonville August 14, 2004 10:00 a.m. Flower Mound Central Fire Station 3838 Forums Drive Flower Mound, TX 75028 The Colony/Hebron August 14, 2004 1:00 p.m. The Colony City Hall, City Council Chambers 6800 Main Street The Colony, TX 75056 As your United States Congressman, I hold town hall meetings in different cities to give constituents a chance to hear from me and to discuss issues before the United States Congress. Some of the issues I have been working on in the U.S. House of Representatives this year include protecting America; curbing federal spending; strengthen our economy; developing innovative financing for road construction; and improving and refining our health care system. Watch your email and mailbox for more information on a meeting in your area.

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H.R. 4275 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to permanently extend the 10-percent individual income tax rate bracket
Posted by on May 13, 2004
H.R. 4275 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to permanently extend the 10-percent individual income tax rate bracket Passed by a vote of 344-76 Burgess voted YES H.R.4275 Major Actions: Help Title:To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to permanently extend the 10-percent individual income tax rate bracket. Sponsor: Rep Sessions, Pete [TX-32] (introduced 5/5/2004) Cosponsors: 78 Committees: House Ways and Means Related Bills: H.RES.637, H.R.4280, H.R.4281 Latest Major Action: 5/13/2004 Passed/agreed to in House. Status: On passage Passed by recorded vote: 344 - 76 (Roll no. 170). -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY AS OF: 5/5/2004--Introduced. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make permanent the increased upper limit amounts for the ten percent income tax rate bracket for individual taxpayers ($14,000 for married taxpayers filing joint tax returns and surviving spouses, $10,000 for heads of household, and $7,000 for unmarried individuals and married individuals filing separately). Allows an inflation adjustment to such amounts for married taxpayers filing joint tax returns, surviving spouses, and heads of household for taxable years beginning after 2003 based on the difference from the Consumer Price Index for 2002.
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H.R. 4281 Small Business Health Fairness Act of 2004
Posted by on May 13, 2004
H.R. 4281 Small Business Health Fairness Act of 2004 Passed by a vote of 252-162 Burgess voted YES H.R.4281 Major Actions: Help Title:To amend title I of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 to improve access and choice for entrepreneurs with small businesses with respect to medical care for their employees. Sponsor: Rep Johnson, Sam [TX-3] (introduced 5/5/2004) Cosponsors: 17 Committees: House Education and the Workforce Related Bills: H.RES.638, H.R.660, H.R.4275, H.R.4279, S.545 Latest Major Action: 5/13/2004 Passed/agreed to in House. Status: On passage Passed by the Yeas and Nays: 252 - 162, 1 Present (Roll no. 174). Note: On 5/13/2004, H.R. 4281 was laid on the table and its text appended to H.R. 4279, pursuant to H.Res. 638. For further action, see H.R. 4279. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY AS OF: 5/13/2004--Passed House, without amendment. (There is 1 other summary) (This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary has been expanded because action occurred on the measure.) Small Business Health Fairness Act of 2004 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to provide for establishment and governance of association health plans (AHPs), which are group health plans whose sponsors are trade, industry, professional, chamber of commerce, or similar business associations, and which meet certain ERISA certification requirements. (Thus, through ERISA preemption of State laws, certified AHPs are exempted from State regulation of health insurance providers, including State consumer protection laws and State requirements for health care benefits to be offered by such entities, with certain exceptions.) (Sec. 2) Establishes rules governing AHPs, including requirements relating to certification, sponsors and boards of trustees, participation and coverage, nondiscrimination, plan documents, contribution rates, benefit options, applications for certification, notice of voluntary termination, corrective actions, and mandatory termination. Requires AHPs which provide health benefits in addition to health insurance coverage to maintain certain reserves and comply with other solvency requirements. Directs the Secretary of Labor to apply for appointment, and carry out specified duties, as trustee of any insolvent AHPs which provide health benefits in addition to health insurance coverage. Allows a State to impose a contribution tax on any AHP commencing operations in such State after the enactment of this Act. Sets forth limits on such tax, including reduction by the amount of any tax or assessment otherwise imposed by the State on specified other insurance related items maintained by the AHP. Requires AHPs to include in their summary plan descriptions, in connection with each benefit option, a description of the form of any solvency or guarantee fund protection secured under ERISA or applicable State law. Allows a certified AHP to exist in a State regardless of any State law that would preclude it. Preempts State requirements for benefits to be offered by AHPs; but allows a State in which an AHP is domiciled to require the domiciled AHP to cover particular types of diseases and conditions. Allows health insurance issuers to offer coverage of the same policy type offered in connection with a particular AHP to eligible employers, regardless of whether such employers are members of the particular association and regardless of State law. Deems health insurance coverage policy forms filed and approved in a particular State in connection with an insurer's offering under an AHP as approved in any other State in which such coverage is offered when the insurer provides a complete filing in the same form and manner to the authority in the other State. Makes inapplicable to certified AHPs certain current ERISA provisions which allow State regulation of multiple employer welfare arrangements (MEWAs). Revises ERISA preemption rules to permit State regulation of self-insured MEWAs providing medical care which do not elect to meet the certification requirements for AHPs. Directs the Secretary to report to specified congressional committees by January 1, 2009, on the effect, if any, AHPs have had on the number of uninsured individuals. (Sec. 3) Revises requirements for treatment of single employer arrangements. Allows two or more trades or businesses to be deemed a single employer if they are in the same control group offering medical care benefits, under specified conditions. (Sec. 4) Provides for enforcement of AHP requirements, including criminal penalties for certain willful misrepresentations, issuance of cease and desist orders, and the responsibility of AHP boards of trustees for certain claims procedures. (Sec. 5) Directs the Secretary, regarding the exercise of authority, to consult only with the recognized primary domicile State for an AHP. (Sec. 6) Provides for transitional and other rules relating to treatment of certain existing health benefit programs.
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H.J.Res. 91 Recognizing the 60th anniversary of the Servicemens Readjustment Act of 1944
Posted by on May 13, 2004
H.J.Res. 91 Recognizing the 60th anniversary of the Servicemens Readjustment Act of 1944 Passed by a vote of 409-0 Burgess voted YES H.J.RES.91 Major Actions: Help Title:Recognizing the 60th anniversary of the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944. Sponsor: Rep Michaud, Michael H. [ME-2] (introduced 3/25/2004) Cosponsors: 7 Committees: House Veterans' Affairs Latest Major Action: 5/13/2004 Passed/agreed to in House. Status: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 409 - 0 (Roll no. 175). -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY AS OF: 3/25/2004--Introduced. Declares that Congress: (1) supports the recognition of the 60th anniversary of the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, and (2) requests the President to issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States to observe such anniversary with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
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