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Burgess Adamantly Opposed to Human Cloning
Posted by on February 25, 2003
Congressman Michael C. Burgess (TX-26) today voted to approve landmark legislation that bans all forms of human cloning. The Human Cloning Prohibition Act of 2003 makes performing or attempting to perform human cloning illegal. HR 534 passed the House by a vote of 241 to 155. Similar legislation passed the House of Representatives by a large bipartisan vote in the 107th Congress, but the Senate never considered it.
“As a former physician, I believe we should always seek to improve human life and we must always preserve human dignity. And therefore, it is a necessity to prohibit both human somatic nuclear transfer and research cloning. Anything short of a complete prohibition is unacceptable.”
HR 534 bans the creation of human cloned embryos for research and reproductive purposes. The legislation bans creating cloned human embryos by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) for any purposes and would only ban the creation of cloned human embryos. SCNT is also known as therapeutic cloning involves removing the nucleus of an unfertilized egg cell, replacing it with the material from the nucleus of a “somatic cell” (a skin, heart or nerve cell), and stimulating this cell to begin dividing. Experimental research cloning endangers women, because it would require the harvesting of millions of eggs, exposing them to exploitation and unnecessary risks for purely experimental purposes.
Burgess voted against a substitute to HR 534 offered by Congressman James Greenwood of Pennsylvania (HR 801). The substitute would not have been an outright moratorium, of somatic nuclear transfer cloning.
“We must prevent human cloning by stopping it before it starts. We cannot allow children to be born malformed, disabled, or stillborn since this type of procedure results in high failure rates. America is looking for our leadership on this very important issue,” commented Burgess in a statement on the House floor.
Denton Municipal Airport Receives Important Expansion Funding
Posted by on February 14, 2003
Congressman Michael C. Burgess (TX-26) is pleased to announce that the Denton Municipal Airport will receive $2 million dollars under the Airport Improvement Program operated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for improvements to its airport. These funds are a portion of the 2003 fiscal year omnibus appropriations package, totaling $397.4 billion, passed by the U.S. Congress last night.
“This project is a priority for me because it will provide important aviation and economic development benefits to my district,” commented Congressman Burgess. “As a life long resident of Denton County, I understand the importance of funding the expansion and development of local transportation entities. In the future, I will work towards ensuring that the Denton Municipal Airport receives other needed funds so it continues to be an economic asset to the area.”
The airport improvement project will use these funds for the expansion of the apron, lengthening of the runway and installation of air traffic control equipment at the Denton Airport. These improvements will enhance safety and ensure that the airport, which serves as a reliever for Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and has been designated as a “super reliever” airport by FAA, will continue to play its important role in the economy of Denton and North Central Texas.
In the overall omnibus package, the U.S. Department of Transportation received $3.4 billion for the Airport Improvement Program, which is $100 million over FY’02 funding. And, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) received $13.6 billion. This will be used to enhance security in the skies by providing $87 million over last year's level.
"This budget will help meet important transportation needs. The increased funding will help the Denton Municipal Airport better serve the growing North Texas community,” commented Senator Kay Bailey Hutchinson after learning the funding was part of the omnibus package.
The airport improvement project enjoys widespread support from local political and business leaders as well as the citizens of Denton, who overwhelmingly voted to approve a bond issue last year that will provide the local match for this project.
University of North Texas Receives Funds in Omnibus Package
Posted by on February 14, 2003
Last night, Congressman Michael C. Burgess (TX-26) voted for a final $397 billion spending plan for fiscal year 2003, which funds America's priorities and provides increased spending for various education, health and security initiatives. Included in this large package are two earmarks totaling $700,000 for the University of North Texas.
“As an alumnus of North Texas State University (now the University of North Texas), I am pleased to see they will receive needed funds to promote math and science education and fund an environmental research program,” said Burgess. “I want to ensure the University is receiving sufficient funding to achieve its academic and research goals for the present and future.”
The University of North Texas College of Education in collaboration with the Paul Quinn College established a Science and Math (SAM) Teacher Academy to improve student achievement in science and math by enhancing the science and math conceptual and instructional knowledge of teacher in low-socioeconomic areas of South Dallas. The SAM Academy provides intensive, focused training in scientific and mathematical teaching and research strategies to experienced teachers with the goal of better preparing students for the study of science and math in post secondary institutions.
The program will receive $250,000 in the FY 2003 package so it can begin to broaden its scope as a national dissemination and training center for best instructional practices in science and math education.
The second project will receive $450,000 in funding, which will aid in the establishment of the Texas Institute for Environmental Assessment and Management (TEAM). This will be an entity under the Center for Watershed and Reservoir Management and Assessment by the University of North Texas (UNT) to address water and land related problems and issues. The University intends to develop TEAM into a national center, dealing with watershed issues that can be replicated across the nation.
Senator Kay Bailey Hutchinson was instrumental in securing this funding for the University and stated, ”This budget will help meet important needs in North Texas. The increased funding will allow the University of North Texas and Paul Quinn College to continue working to improve education in the community."
Burgess Supports Better Health Care Access
Posted by on February 11, 2003
Today, Congressman Michael C. Burgess became a co-sponsor of the bi-partisan HEALTH (Help Efficient Accessible, Low-Cost, Timely Health Care) Act, key legislation that addresses America’s medical liability crisis.
“Our heath care system is facing an escalating crisis. Congress must make helping patients receive the care and access they deserve a top priority,” said Burgess. “This bill is a great step to reforming our medical liability system. From the perspective of a former doctor, we must seek modifications in our health care system that protect patients and preserve our health care infrastructure.”
The HEALTH Act limits the statute of limitations under which a plaintiff can file a health care liability suit and places a cap on non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, to $250,000. The bill does not limit compensation for future medical expenses, lost earnings or physical injuries resulting from a providers care. H.R. 5 also sets a reasonable limit on punitive damages to be the greater of two times the amount of economic damages awarded or $250,000. The bill also reforms joint and several liability. Current law allows trial attorneys to seek all damages from one doctor even if that doctor was only minimally responsible.
In at least 12 states doctors are forced to choose between offering care to patients or leaving their trained profession because insurance premiums have skyrocketed in many states by more than 20 percent on and more than 75 percent for specialties in some states. Emergency departments are losing doctors and some doctors have stopped performing high-risk procedures. Without federal legislation the health care crisis will continue and patients will find it increasingly hard to receive the health care they need.
The HEALTH Act brings reasonable reforms to our nation’s broken medical liability system and it protects states that have already enacted similar legislation.
“We must allow doctor’s the ability to deliver quality care to all of their patients and to ensure affordable and accessible health care in America.”
Columbia Space Shuttle Accident - Special Order
Posted by on February 5, 2003
On February 1, 2003, America was once again reminded of the bravery, courage, and idealism required of those who leave the confines of our planet to explore space. Our nation and the world mourn the loss of all seven members of the space shuttle Columbia. Their dedication was complete, their sacrifice ultimate. Our thoughts and prayers go out to their families as they deal with this horrible tragedy.
We must now turn to the task of determining the causes of this tragedy. The families of those that were lost and all Americans deserve nothing less than a swift and thorough investigation of this incident. Congress and the Administration must restore the public’s faith in NASA’s human space flight program.
This tragedy should not sway America’s commitment to human space flight. Space provides humankind with a unique laboratory to develop and test a myriad of new technologies. Experiments conducted aboard previous shuttle missions have led to a deeper understanding of how osteoporosis affects the human body; and technology developed for space flight has led to life-saving innovations such as the pacemaker and telemetry. Many of the advances made in the intensive care unit stem from the monitoring of astronauts’ vital signs while in flight. The Human Research Facility on the International Space Station promises to advance our understanding of the heart and lungs, the growth and maintenance of muscle and bone, the body’s ability to sense position and maintain balance and the regulation of the body’s many systems.
Outside of medical technology, many other advances and scientific information can be directly attributed to the human space flight program. Technologies developed and used in America’s space program have benefited many different sectors of our economy such as aeronautics, communications, IT, and many more.
Without the courage of our astronauts, would have never broken the limits of our atmosphere, challenging us to push the envelope in search of more. Without the courage of our astronauts, we would have never tested the limits of the human body in a weightless environment. Without the idealism of our astronauts, mankind would have never traveled beyond the earth to walk on another planetary body.
Yes, there are lessons to be learned from Columbia, but the cause for which those seven astronauts died will continue.
Our journey into space will go on with the same vision and courage, working for the betterment of mankind.
Burgess Applauds Renewed Welfare Reform
Posted by on January 30, 2003
Congressman Michael C. Burgess today voted to renew landmark legislation moving millions of recipients off welfare rolls and into career-building jobs. The Personal Responsibility, Work and Family Protection Act of 2003 (H.R. 4) passed the House by a bipartisan vote of 230-192.
“Giving welfare recipients the tools and guidance to find a job will produce in them a sense of independence, self-worth and give them the ability to live the American dream, said Congressman Burgess. “For years this dream was not a reality for many Americans. We have reformed the system that gives people the opportunity to rebuild their lives so they can provide a brighter future for themselves and their loved ones, on their own.”
The renewed legislation that Congress overwhelmingly passed is aimed at reducing illegitimacy and divorce, while strengthening marriage and the family. Work requirements are at the core of the bill affecting the five million people still on welfare. Recipients are required to work a 40-hour work week either at a job or in programs designed to help them achieve independence. States, however, will have the flexibility to count up to 16 hours a week of education, job training or substance abuse treatment toward completion of the work requirements.
Congress led the bill with four fundamental principles, which seek to make Americans self-sustaining and independent.
1. Promote work to foster independence.
2. Improve child well being by lifting millions more out of poverty.
3. Foster healthy marriages and strengthen families.
4. Boost personal incomes and improve quality of life.
On the local level, the Texas Welfare to Work Program assisted a Denton resident in May of 2001. Janice came to the Workforce Center in Arlington, Texas and began participating in the state’s welfare program. Upon entering the program she had numerous problems making ends meet and providing for her child. When Janice came into the program her job search was unsuccessful and had been unable to continue her search due to care of her child.
One month into the program, the client requested emergency assistance because her utilities were about to be disconnected. The program was able to make a one-time payment to assist her in keeping her electricity. Immediately following, Janice began working at the Denton Public Library, building important career skills.
She then determined that she wanted to broaden her experience. She left the Denton Library and went to the Texas Woman’s University Library. After several months in the program Janice landed a successful job in her career field and is now independent of public assistance. With the assistance of the program Janice is able to care for herself, her child, and is at the beginning of a promising career.
“It is success stories like Janice’s that encourage us to continue the Republican principle of working toward independence and giving American’s the chance to succeed,” commented Burgess.
Burgess Receives Top Subcommittee Choices
Posted by on January 30, 2003
Today, Michael C. Burgess received his subcommittee assignments for the 108th Congress as a member on the Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) and Science Committees.
“The issues before these subcommittees are some of the most important for my district and the nation,” said Burgess. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure my district has the funding it needs to increase everyone’s quality of life.”
Burgess will serve as a member on two subcommittees under the T&I Committee. He will represent his district on the Highways and Transit Subcommittee and the Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management Subcommittee. Once Burgess learned of his placement on the prominent T&I Committee in late January he began lobbying for these positions.
Earlier today when Chairman Don Young announced Burgess’ placement he commented, “I look forward to working with Representative Burgess as a new member of the prestigious Highway and Transit Subcommittee. His district contains some of the most traveled highways and roads and we must work to improve and maintain them.”
Chairman Young said the subcommittees will handle legislation dealing with issues relating to road construction and transit facilities and the subcommittee has jurisdiction over many programs at the Department of Transportation. The second subcommittee placement, Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management, is primarily charged with authorization of federal real estate assets, the development of infrastructure in communities suffering economic distress, and the federal management of emergencies and national disasters.
Chairman Sherwood Boehlert of the Science Committee made the following comments after Burgess received his assignments on the Space and Environment Subcommittees.
“Representative Burgess’ medical background will bring needed leadership to the Space Subcommittee as we discuss research and medical benefits of space travel in the coming weeks. His leadership and expertise after the tragic Columbia accident proved he has the intellect and expertise to serve as a vital member,” said Chairman Boehlert.
The Space Subcommittee oversees NASA including space exploration and the International Space Station. In addition, the Subcommittee oversees civilian aviation research at FAA and the Department of Commerce. The Environment Subcommittee's primary jurisdiction is Environmental Protection Agency, National Oceanic Atmospheric Agency, National Institute Standards and Technology, and technology programs at the Department of Commerce.
Burgess Opens His Doors to His Constituents
Posted by on January 30, 2003
Today Congressman Michael C. Burgess announced the opening of his district office with an open house for the citizens of his district to meet their new representative and learn about services the Congressman’s office can offer.
“My district office is open and ready to serve the constituents of the twenty-sixth district,” said Burgess. “I am looking forward to assisting my constituents and making myself available to personally listen to their views.”
The day began with a ribbon cutting ceremony with community leaders and elected officials from almost every city in the district. The Lewisville Chamber hosted the event with Ambassador Mary Jacoby welcoming the attendees and Chamber President Ronnie Morrison cutting the ribbon with the Congressman.
“We are delighted to have a congressional office in Lewisville and are looking forward to being a liaison between the Congressman and the business community,” said President Morrison.
Four fifth grade students from neighboring Highland Village Elementary School attended, as well. These student council officers lead the Pledge of Allegiance and Dr. Burgess presented a book about how a bill becomes a law to the students for their school library.
Dr. Burgess understands the importance of helping and guiding those in need and mentioned the main goal of his congressional office is to be a helpful tool to the citizens in the area. “I want my constituents to use my office as a resource on issues related to the federal government and to allow my staff to be advocates for them. We are here to lend a hand and work for you.”
The Congressman continued to explain, “My office can assist with military academy nominations, questions regarding public policy and legislation, procurement of flags flown over the United States Capitol, and obtaining tours and information for trips to our nation’s capitol.”
Effective immediately, constituents can visit the office at 1660 South Stemmons Freeway, Suite 230, Lewisville, Texas 75067. The staff can be reached Monday through Friday from 8-5 p.m.; the phone number is 972/434-9700 and fax is 972/434-9705. To access the office, exit Corporate Drive off of Stemmons Freeway, and the office is located on the East side of the freeway, immediately off of the access road.
Dr. Burgess represents Texas’ twenty-sixth congressional district, which stretches across fifty-two cities. The area covers all of Denton County, as well as portions of Northeast Tarrant, Wise, and Collin Counties.
Burgess: 'He Remains Committeed to the Challenges of Protecting America'
Posted by on January 28, 2003
Congressman Michael C. Burgess joined colleagues from both sides of the political aisle and both chambers of the Congress tonight as President George W. Bush presented his third State of the Union address.
“This was the speech our nation and the world was waiting to hear,” said Burgess. “The President sent a resounding message that he remains committed to the challenges of protecting America, improving the economy for growth and prosperity, and reforming the nation’s health care system to give all Americans a better quality of life.”
Congressman Burgess commended the President for his courage and strength on the war on terrorism. “The greatest danger we face are regimes that develop weapons of mass destruction to terrorize their people and the world.”
“We have made progress in the war against terrorism since September 11th, but we must stand firm with the President, whose greatest job is to defend our nation against these terrorists threats. With the President’s leadership, the security of America and the peace of the world can be maintained as long as we do not accept regimes that defy international law. Nations who engage in terrorism and develop weapons of mass destruction will not be tolerated and must disarm.”
The depth and breadth of the domestic agenda in the President’s speech signaled to all Americans that he is compassionately committed to their needs.
President Bush discussed his commitment to securing the nation’s economy and generating job growth. “I support ending the double taxation of dividends. This will encourage shareholders to invest more in the stock market, as well as, making tax cuts that were promised to the American people effective immediately,” said Burgess. “This will put money in the pockets of hard working Americans, so they can choose how to spend it.”
In addition to improving our economy, President Bush discussed his commitment to reforming our nation’s healthcare system.
“Medicare is a program created in 1965 and has remained frozen in time. Seniors should have access to a modern Medicare benefit that meets the health care needs of today. Many of the seniors in my district are on fixed incomes and they need relief. Additionally, we must reform our liability system in order to lower costs and give patients the access they deserve. We must have medical liability reform to save the system.”
Dr. Burgess recognizes that the nation’s outlook have changed since September 11th. “We have faced big challenges on all fronts, but the President remains up to the task of what lies ahead.”
Dr. Burgess supports the President’s courage to fight the war on terrorism while balancing his domestic priorities. “The President’s responsibilities are now greater than when he was first elected, and he proved tonight that he is committed to all of the tasks ahead of him. Our nation will see a reformed health care system and a stronger economy. The state of our union remains strong with the President’s leadership.”
Burgess Gets First Committee Assignments: Transportation and Infrastructure and Science Committees
Posted by on January 9, 2003
Texas’ Twenty-sixth Congressional District Representative Michael C. Burgess today announced that he has been appointed to serve on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, as well as, the House Committee on Science for the 108th Congress.
“This is great news for the constituents of my district,” said Burgess immediately after hearing the news. “The Transportation Committee assignment will allow me to directly work on the traffic congestion that bottleneck’s our roads. I am honored to be the only Texas Republican selected to serve on the Committee. And, as a Member of the Committee on Science, I can work to improve science and math education in our schools and universities, ensure a clean environment and develop efficient energy policies.”
As a life long resident of the 26th District, Burgess recognizes the impact the committee assignments have on projects important to the region. Burgess began lobbying for these committee assignments immediately after the election.
“There are two critical transportation problems that I can help solve. The first issue is the need to bring needed gasoline tax dollars back to the State and the district. The state only receives 87 cents of every transportation dollar it sends to Washington. The second problem concerns traffic and congestion.”
The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s top order of business will be the reauthorization of the Transportation Equity Act of the 21st Century (TEA-21). The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee has jurisdiction over Transportation Security, Aviation, Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management, Highways and Transit, and Water Resources and Environment.
As a member of the Committee on Science, Burgess will oversee non-defense federal scientific research and development programs of 8 federal agencies. The Committee monitors these programs to ensure that Federal tax dollars are being spent wisely and efficiently and that America's Federal science and technology enterprise maintains its world preeminence.
“In my role as a member of the Science Committee, I look forward to working with the Universities in the 26th District to ensure they have needed research and development funding in math and science. These programs will give students the tools to learn and excel in the technology and health sectors.”
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