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Jobs and Growth Tax Act of 2003 - Special Order
Posted by on May 7, 2003
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2, The “Jobs and Growth Tax Act of 2003.”
There is no need for debate on this bill: America needs economic stimulus! Congress cannot stand on the sidelines while too many of our fellow citizens cannot find work or on the verge of being laid-off. That is why I support the Jobs and Growth Tax Act of 2003.
This important legislation will help expand business investment by eliminating the double tax on corporate income. This plan encourages investments that help small businesses grow. I believe more tax relief means more jobs.
Small businesses are becoming more and more important to the nation’s overall business activity. They create the majority of new jobs and account for half of the economy’s private output. For this reason, this package gives small businesses the ability to immediately expense up to $75,000 instead of the current write off of $25,000 of capital purchases. This encourages small businesses to buy technology, machinery, and other equipment they need to expand and meet the needs of their consumers.
The Flower Mound Chamber in my district expressed their support of the provision since they have over 725 companies that will be able to benefit. These small businesses in my district will receive a tax cut of at least $2,000 – money they can use to hire additional workers, boost current workers pay, or reinvest in their company. Any amount of money a small business can save today will result in business growth and development in the years to come.
The Jobs and Growth Tax Act will create at least one million jobs by the end of 2004 and according to the Heritage Foundation, 1.2 million jobs will be available due to this package.
With the increase of the child tax credit and elimination of the marriage penalty an additional 300,000 jobs will also be created.
Over the recent district work period, I conducted ten town hall meetings in my district. At every event my constituents asked about the economy and tax cuts. Many out of work or underemployed people begged for relief soon. We cannot let Americans down.
Also, May marks the month hundreds of students will graduate from local colleges and universities and they will enter the job market eager to contribute. We owe it to future generations to stimulate our economy and ensure jobs are available.
Support the Jobs and Growth Tax Act of 2003!
University of North Texas’s Center for Advanced Research and Technology - Special Order
Posted by on May 7, 2003
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the University of North Texas’s Center for Advanced Research and Technology, known as CART.
This facility, located just north of Denton is in my Congressional district.
Their investment into research provides a unique opportunity to establish an incubator for interdisciplinary research with experimentation in the materials, computer, and engineering scientific fields.
The University’s goal is to provide the capabilities necessary to satisfy the growing technological and engineering needs of the North Texas region and for the talented faculty to advance research on projects of national importance associated with nanotechnology.
The University of North Texas had the foresight to invest in this facility and has taken the first step to serve as the regions research arm for nanotechnology research, which will someday lead to the development of products.
CART will serve as a seat for disciplines that complement the College of Engineering programs in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, and Engineering Technology.
Once the CART facility is fully established, it will serve as a focal point for basic and applied research and CART will be the first high-tech, entrepreneurial research and development park in Denton County, one of the fastest growing communities in the United States.
I invite my colleagues to join me in congratulating the University of North Texas’s Center for Advanced Research and Technology facility in their quest to keep America on the cutting edge of scientific research and development.
Burgess Applauds Increased Special Education Funding
Posted by on April 30, 2003
Congressman Michael C. Burgess today voted on a bill to reform and reauthorize the nation’s landmark special education law, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The Improving Education Results for Children with Disabilities Act (H.R. 1350), makes significant reforms to improve educational results for children with disabilities by aligning special education with the No Child Left Behind Act to ensure children with special needs are learning. H.R. 1350 passed the House by an overwhelming majority of 251 to 171.
“This legislation will now help those it intended to assist in the first place, children. Each special education student deserves nothing less,” said Congressman Burgess. Today, Congress met its commitment to fully
fund its portion of IDEA special education programs, thereby providing parents with needed options.”
In 1975, the federal government passed the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to ensure
that children with special needs receive the best possible education. The burdensome paperwork associated with the traditional one-year Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) takes teachers out of the classroom and away from children who need to be taught. The first vital change of the new legislation is reducing this paperwork by giving parents the option to participate in a 3-year IEP there by allowing teachers to focus on long-term educational and developmental goals for the child that match up with the child’s needs.
H.R. 1350 provides more flexibility for local school districts to improve early intervention and identification strategies. Currently, too many children with reading problems, specifically minorities, are being identified as learning disabled and placed in special education. This over-identification hinders the academic development of students who are misidentified, and also takes valuable resources away from students who truly are learning disabled. This legislation addresses over-identification by giving local school districts flexibility to use up to 15 percent of their federal IDEA funds for pre-referral services for students before they are identified as needing special education.
The legislation increases spending through the traditional “discretionary” spending process that results in the federal government paying an unprecedented 21 percent of the total cost of special education in America next year and 25 percent the following year. The bill authorizes $2.2 billion in IDEA spending in FY 2004, and another $2.5 billion in FY 2005 – a total increase of $4.7 billion in federal IDEA grants to states over the next two years. Since 1996, Congress has increased IDEA funding by more than 282% - the largest increase over any other Congress.
“This legislation will improve children’s lives, improve choices for parents, give states needed funds, and allow teachers the ability to do what they are trained to do, teach, Burgess said.
Speaker Hastert Names Burgess to Prescription Drug Action Team
Posted by on April 11, 2003
Congressman Michael C. Burgess (TX-26) was named by House Speaker, Dennis Hastert, to his “Prescription Drug Action Team,” which will develop Medicare Prescription Drug legislation. The Committee will focus on lowering the cost of prescription drugs for senior citizens. The Speaker’s announcement came just hours after lawmakers passed a federal budget that provides $400 billion to modernize Medicare and include a prescription drug benefit.
“Medicine has changed; Medicare has not. The current Medicare program does not take care of today’s seniors and we need to act immediately,” said Congressman Burgess. It is an honor to serve on the Speaker Hastert’s team, and I looking forward to providing seniors with needed prescription drug coverage. This position will allow me to bring my expertise as a physician to the discussion table. We must deliver a Medicare-prescription drug plan that modernizes the program, gives senior citizens the freedom to choose what’s best for them, and lowers the cost of pharmaceutical medicines,”
Lewisville Senior Listening Session
Tuesday, April 15th, 10-11 a.m.
Lewisville Senior Center, 1950-A
1650 S. Stonebridge Drive
McKinney, Texas 75070
McKinney Senior Listening Session
Wednesday, April 16th, 1-2 p.m.
Kingsley Place Sr. Assisted Living Center
1650 S. Stonebridge Drive
McKinney, Texas 75070
Bedford Senior Listening Session
Friday, April 25th, 1:30-3 p.m.
Bedford-Hurst Senior Center
2819 Forest Ridge Drive
Bedford, Texas 76021
“Congressman Michael Burgess has expressed to me a strong interest on providing a prescription drug benefit to seniors. I welcome his expertise as a physician who knows first hand what seniors need most,” commented Speaker Hastert immediately after the announcement.
Burgess Votes to Fund America
Posted by on April 10, 2003
Congressman Michael C. Burgess (TX-26) voted in favor of the fiscal year 2004 Budget Resolution to protect America, strengthen the economy and create jobs, and promote fiscal responsibility.
“This budget balances the budget and I am proud to support funding vital issues for next year,” said Congressman Burgess. “We have balanced spending and reduced deficits while giving Americans deserved tax relief.
The fiscal year 2004 Budget Resolution is $2.248 trillion, an increase of 4.3% over last years budget. The budget protects America by funding America’s military and covers Operation Iraqi Freedom. The public’s health is protected from emerging threats of chemical, biological, or radiological agents in Operation Bioshield, with $5.6 billion set aside in a reserve fund. Americans will also receive $1,225.9 billion in tax relief over the next 10 years. Congress used spending restraints and worked to reduce the deficit caused by September 11th. This Resolution also balances the budget by 2012.
Burgess Supports Common Sense Lawsuit Prevention
Posted by on April 9, 2003
Congressman Michael C. Burgess (TX-26) voted in favor of The Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (H.R. 1036), which brings an end to frivolous lawsuits against the firearm industry.
“Today, I supported the 2nd Amendment rights of law-abiding Americans,” said Congressman Burgess. “We must stop junk lawsuits that threaten the firearm industry’s well-being due to the growing problem of predatory lawsuits filed with the intention of bankrupting gun ammunition manufacturers and dealers.”
This legislation protects those in the firearm industry from lawsuits arising out of the criminal or unlawful acts of people who criminally or unlawfully misuse their products. The bill only protects legitimate businesses that comply with federal, state, and local gun laws. It has no effect on true liability cases for defective products, breach of contract or warranty, negligent entrustment of other causes that are not related to third-party criminal misuse of guns or ammunition.
Thirty-one states have equivalent laws against the firearms industry based on the criminal behavior of others. The State of Texas passed similar legislation, signed by then George W. Bush in 1999, SB 717.
The bill provides that a "qualified civil liability action" cannot be brought in any State or Federal court. "Qualified civil liability action" is defined as a civil action brought by any person against a manufacturer or seller of firearms or ammunition for damages or injunctive relief resulting from the criminal or unlawful misuse of such products. However, a "qualified civil liability act" does not include:
· an action against a person who transfers a firearm or ammunition knowing that it will be used to commit a crime of violence or a drug trafficking crime, or a comparable or identical State felony law;
· an action brought against a seller for negligent entrustment or negligence per se;
· actions in which a manufacturer or seller of a qualified product violates a State or Federal statute applicable to sales or marketing when such violation was a proximate cause of the harm for which relief is sought;
· actions for breach of contract or warranty in connection with the purchase of a firearm or ammunition; and
· actions for damages resulting directly from a defect in design or manufacture of a firearm or ammunition.
H.R. 1036 also makes clear that only licensed manufacturers and sellers are covered by the bill.
Burgess Votes to Encourage Savings
Posted by on April 2, 2003
Today, Congressman Michael C. Burgess voted in favor of H.R. 522, The Federal Deposit Insurance Reform Act of 2003, a bill to encourage future generations to save for their futures. The legislation increases coverage limits for individual accounts from $100,000 to $130,000 and passed by overwhelming bipartisan support with a vote of 411 to 11.
“We must find ways to encourage Americans to save more of their money and keep it safe. This bill does just that, said Congressman Burgess immediately after the vote. We must give those planning for retirement a safe haven for their savings. The bill offers a conservative, convenient and secure way to save money.”
The Federal Deposit Insurance Reform Act of 2003 includes the following provisions:
· Merges the Bank Insurance Fund (BIF) and the Savings Association Insurance Fund (SAIF).
· Doubles the coverage limits for certain types of IRAs and 401Ks.
· Encourages coverage limits for municipal deposits.
· Requires a biannual FDIC survey on increasing the deposit base by encouraging the use of depository institutions by the unbanked.
In 1934, Congress created the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation in response to the run in banks during the great depression. All banks and savings associations are required to carry Federal Deposit Insurance.
The legislation ensures that the Federal Deposit Insurance System remains strong and complements the Federal and State regulatory structure that helps to maintain the safety and soundness of the nation’s banks, thrifts and credit unions. The bill also guarantees that the Federal Deposit Insurance System does not harm the ability of insured depository institutions to meet the nation’s credit needs at all stages of the economic cycle. And, confirms that the value, benefit, and cost of deposit insurance are allocated equitably and fairly.
“Today, more than ever, American savers and investors need reassurance that their elected representatives are helping to ensure their hard-earned savings are safe with a modern deposit insurance system. Let’s promote confidence for today’s disheartened saver and investor,” commented Burgess on the House floor in support of the legislation.
Federal Deposit Insurance Reform Act of 2003 - Floor Speech
Posted by on April 2, 2003
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 522, the Federal Deposit Insurance Reform Act of 2003.
This legislation would accomplish a much-needed modernization of our Federal Deposit Insurance System. It would help millions of typical Americans get the important protection for their savings that they deserve. H.R. 522 would help modernize the system by increasing the deposit coverage levels for our nation’s savers from $100,000 to $130,000. I have no doubt that H.R. 522 would help many Americans get the important protection they deserve for their nest-eggs.
HR 522, strengthens the nation’s insured depository institutions, especially small banks, thrifts, and credit unions. It also ensures that the Federal deposit insurance system does not harm the ability of insured depository institutions to meet the nation’s credit needs at all stages of the economic cycle. And, who can argue against a bill the advances the national priority of enhancing retirement security for all Americans.
Coverage levels are increased for IRAs and 401K plans, which is essential to our economy as our population ages and retirees are realizing the large sums of money it takes today to maintain an adequate standard of living. That is why the AARP supports the bill.
We must pass this bill in order to encourage retirees in smaller towns to keep their savings in local community banks instead of transferring their monies to larger banks headquartered in a distant city. Transactions to larger banks hurt the local community’s economy because the saver’s monies are not recycled back into the community. It also directly hurts the local community’s residents because there are less loan funds available, access to credit can become more difficult, and the cost of raising funds to lend becomes higher.
This evolution of bank transactions ultimately hurts the local economy by threatening the job base and economic vitality of the local community.
I know this bill has widespread support in this chamber. During the 107th Congress, the House passed similar legislation with an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 408 to18. Last year’s solid vote of support indicates to me both the importance of this measure and the grassroots support behind it.
I urge my colleagues to pass H.R 522 with similar resolve. Today, more than ever, American savers and investors need reassurance that their elected representatives are helping to ensure their hard-earned savings are safe with a modern deposit insurance system. Let’s promote confidence for today’s disheartened saver and investor.
In light of its broad passage in the House last year, I look forward to an honest debate and fair consideration of H.R. 522.
Burgess Lends Hand to Help Local Fire Departments
Posted by on March 23, 2003
Congressman Michael C. Burgess offers to help local area fire fighters receive grant money available through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program announced by Department of Homeland Security, Secretary Tom Ridge. Approximately $750 million is available to help rural, urban and suburban fire departments better train, prepare, and equip themselves for all emergencies – natural or man-made.
“Fire fighters perform vital services in our local communities. These men and woman on the front lines risk their lives to save loved ones and keep them away from harm,” said Congressman Burgess. “Since September 11th, it is even more important to equip local first responders with more resources and equipment to handle all types of emergencies or disasters.”
Effective firefighters in every community are critical to America’s homeland security. The intent of the grant program is to help the fire service to move quickly to develop and acquire the necessary knowledge, skills and equipment to respond to all emergencies.
“The training and preparedness of fire departments is critical to protect citizens from everyday hazards and the new threat of terrorism. The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program helps ensure that departments can perform their job safely and effectively. This year, we encourage all North Texas departments to submit an application, said Gary Jones, FEMA’s Acting Regional Director.
For fire departments interested in applying for a portion of the $750 million, visit the on-line application from available on the web at www.usfa.fema.gov. Please notify Congressman Burgess’ office in Washington, D.C. to receive a letter of support from him for grant applications. Applications are due by April 11, 2003 at 5 p.m. via the electronic application. Once the application period is closed, a peer review process will begin and run through May. The distribution of funds to successful applicants will begin no later then July 2003.
As of March 1, the Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) became a part of the Department of Homeland Security. The U.S. Fire Administration, which administers the grant program, is a component of FEMA’s Preparedness Division. The Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program is one of the principal ways FEMA meets its mission to help the nation prevent, prepare for respond to and recover from all emergencies.
“I want to assist these local heroes as much as possible. I encourage fire departments to lean on my office for support because I am here to help.”
Burgess Lends Hand to Help Local Fire Departments
Posted by on March 23, 2003
Congressman Michael C. Burgess offers to help local area fire fighters receive grant money available through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program announced by Department of Homeland Security, Secretary Tom Ridge. Approximately $750 million is available to help rural, urban and suburban fire departments better train, prepare, and equip themselves for all emergencies – natural or man-made.
“Fire fighters perform vital services in our local communities. These men and woman on the front lines risk their lives to save loved ones and keep them away from harm,” said Congressman Burgess. “Since September 11th, it is even more important to equip local first responders with more resources and equipment to handle all types of emergencies or disasters.”
Effective firefighters in every community are critical to America’s homeland security. The intent of the grant program is to help the fire service to move quickly to develop and acquire the necessary knowledge, skills and equipment to respond to all emergencies.
“The training and preparedness of fire departments is critical to protect citizens from everyday hazards and the new threat of terrorism. The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program helps ensure that departments can perform their job safely and effectively. This year, we encourage all North Texas departments to submit an application, said Gary Jones, FEMA’s Acting Regional Director.
For fire departments interested in applying for a portion of the $750 million, visit the on-line application from available on the web at www.usfa.fema.gov. Please notify Congressman Burgess’ office in Washington, D.C. to receive a letter of support from him for grant applications. Applications are due by April 11, 2003 at 5 p.m. via the electronic application. Once the application period is closed, a peer review process will begin and run through May. The distribution of funds to successful applicants will begin no later then July 2003.
As of March 1, the Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) became a part of the Department of Homeland Security. The U.S. Fire Administration, which administers the grant program, is a component of FEMA’s Preparedness Division. The Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program is one of the principal ways FEMA meets its mission to help the nation prevent, prepare for respond to and recover from all emergencies.
“I want to assist these local heroes as much as possible. I encourage fire departments to lean on my office for support because I am here to help.”
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