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Burgess Supports National Energy Policy Legislation


Today, Congressman Michael C. Burgess (TX-26) voted in favor of a national energy policy. The conference report on H.R. 6, The Energy Policy Act of 2005 passed the House of Representatives by a bipartisan vote of 275-156.

“With our ever-increasing dependence on foreign oil, I knew it was vital to our national security, and our economy, to make the United States self-sufficient when it comes to our energy needs,” stated Rep. Michael C. Burgess. “The time has come that we completely revamp our system and focus on a national policy that will benefit all Americans.”

The Energy Act of 2005 is of particular interest to North Texas because it ensures that energy production in the Barnett Shale, an unconventional natural gas source in the North Texas region, can continue to provide natural gas for Texas and the nation.

“In addition to the thousands of cars and trucks on our roads, there is significant railroad traffic through Tower 55 in Fort Worth and the Alliance Corridor in Denton and Tarrant Counties,” noted Congressman Michael Burgess. “This emissions reduction provision will help to clean up our air in North Texas,” said Rep. Michael Burgess.

“The bill was a longtime in the making, but well worth the wait,” stated Congressman Michael Burgess. “This is a win-win for my constituents.”

For more specifics on the Energy Policy Act of 2005 or to view a video clip of Congressman Burgess participating in a press conference with Department of Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman, please follow this link: /Multimedia/ and selected the “Energy Policy Act Press Conference.”



Burgess Announces Strong Transportation Bill Benefits for Texas

U.S. Representative Michael C. Burgess (TX-26) today (July 29th) voted in favor of the 2006 Transportation Authorization Bill, increasing Texas’ rate of return for federal transportation dollars. The bill passed 412-8.

As a member of the House Transportation Committee in the 108th Congress, Rep. Burgess was an early advocate to bring home more of Texas’ hard-earned tax dollars.

“The long overdue passage of this year’s transportation bill is an accomplishment for Texas’ transportation system. Improving roads, growing our rate-of-return and increasing safety measures ultimately benefits Texas,” Congressman Michael Burgess said.

Key among issues for Texas lawmakers was the increase of the rate-of-return for federal transportation dollars. Currently, for every $1 Texans send to Federal Highway Administration, they receive only 88 cents back. The 2006 Transportation Authorization Bill will allow for a gradual increase in the national rate of return from 90.5 percent in 2005 to 92.0 percent in 2009. The bill designates $286.4 billion to be distributed over the six-year life of the legislation among highway, transit and safety projects throughout the country.

Because of Texas' proximity to Mexico and being at the crossroads for national trade, the state faces unique transportation challenges. Because of this situation, H.R. 3 directs $211.8 million to Texas to address border transportation needs. The Borders and Corridors Program under this bill has been dramatically modified to reflect the growth in travel, largely due to commercial activity, along the border region. The changes reflect a commitment to safely develop this vital corridor between the United States and Mexico.

Congressman Michael Burgess was also able to secure his legacy issues from last term, namely his design-build concept and use of toll credits. “Design-Build” is a term to describe an innovative project delivery method that combines the design and construction of a toll road project into one contract rather than the traditional “Design-Bid-Build” method of having individual contracts for separate, sequential phases of a project. Congressman Burgess seeks to modify existing law give states additional flexibility to design and build roads concurrently, not sequentially.

“By integrating the design-build portion of a project, we can complete projects in a more efficient and inexpensive manner,” stated Congressman Michael Burgess. “This philosophy of road building would bring relief to dangerous and congested roads that can’t wait another 20 years to get fixed.”

Rep. Michael Burgess played an integral role in the development of the House of Representatives’ bill and offered an amendment on the floor. The amendment allows states to receive transportation development credits (“toll credits”) in a timely manner so they have available resources to reinvest in their transportation systems without constantly requesting additional federal monies to meet their needs. Toll credits recognize the non-federal state and local investment in toll facilities to help address traffic congestion in urbanized areas. Toll credits build on that state and local investment to provide financing options for needed highway, transit, and highway safety projects.

"Congressman Burgess stuck with this from the minute he arrived on Capitol Hill. Burgess's ideas to multiply the value of our federal dollars are marbled throughout the bill: faster project delivery, new tolling options, transportation development credits, and inducements for private investment in public infrastructure. He has left an indelible print on this legislation and Texas will benefit from more options to fight congestion," said Ric Williamson, Chairman of the Texas Transportation Commission.

Included in the six-year plan of the transportation bill are seven projects designed to improve the transportation system and structure in North Texas.





Statement: Burgess Puts Patient Safety First
On July 27th, Congressman Michael C. Burgess (TX-26) voted for the Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Act (S. 544) designed to encourage the anonymous reporting of errors to newly-created patient safety organizations, which will analyze the information and, working with doctors, identify the changes necessary to prevent these errors. The bill passed the House of Representatives with a vote of 428 to 3. The bill passed the Senate by a voice vote on Thursday, July, 21, 2005.

The following statement may be attributed to Congressman Michael C. Burgess:

“Medical errors are an unfortunate aspect to the delivery of modern health care. The bill uniquely combines a non-punitive backdrop where doctors can share information with patient safety specialist who monitor and look for solutions and improvements of the system. All information will continue to be available to the public and consumer organizations will receive information on medical errors, trends and other details concerning medical mistakes reported.”

“The litigious environment that doctors and patient live in today serve neither well. This bill will increase transparency in medicine, encourage reporting, and assist in targeted quality improvements.”

“I’m very pleased that the House and Senate were able to work out differences on this important legislation and clear the way for President Bush to sign it into law.”




Rep. Burgess Honors and Congratulates Discovery’s Crew, Scientists, and Technicians on Successful Launch


Space Shuttle
“Congratulations to all those who worked so hard to get our shuttle program back on tract.”

“As a former Member of the House Science Committee, I specifically acknowledge the wonderful work of the scientists, technicians, and crew of Discovery who uphold the great tradition of our space program.

“Barely one month into my first term, the Shuttle Columbia and her crew were lost over the skies of Texas. The return to flight was pursued in a careful, methodical fashion, with a mission of strict adherence to safety.

“On momentous occasions like today, we remember those who have sacrificed their lives, and we can honor them by continuing America’s quest to observe and learn from our galaxy and universe.

“On Wednesday, January 28, 2004, I introduced House Resolution 507 to commemorate the crew of the Space Shuttle Columbia and their final mission. Today, Tuesday, July 13, 200, I am deeply moved as the shuttle returns to space –it is an impressive and hopeful moment for America.”

For more specifics on the Space Shuttle Discovery launch press release or to view a video clip of Congressman Burgess presenting remarks on the floor, please follow this link: /News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=31091.



STATEMENT: London Terrorist Attack

July 7, 2005 -- “My prayers and condolences go out to the victims and families of the terrorist attack in London. We all thank those first responders and medical professionals who reacted swiftly to the emergency, at times placing themselves in jeopardy.”

”These acts of such astonishing cruelty show a stark difference between those who strive for harmony, and those who wish only to bring chaos and fear to the world. While bombs exploded around London killing innocent people, important work was being conducted by President George W. Bush, Prime Minister Tony Blair and other international leaders gathered in Scotland for the G8 Summit. While bombers calculated means of destroying lives, participants at the G8 Summit were searching for solutions to world poverty and global environmental issues. “

In times such as these, people should recognize that evil knows no borders, knows no limits and knows no compassion. Those around the globe that value freedom must continue to persevere even in the darkest of times.

”No one can truly be prepared for such devastation and pure malevolence, but the United Kingdom can always look to the United States as an ally resolved to stand firm in the war on terrorism.”




Multimedia Now Available
New “Multimedia” section available on the Congressional Website at /Multimedia. In this section, you’ll be able to choose from both audio and video files of Congressman Burgess discussing topics ranging from National Institute of Health’s Reauthorization and Stem Cell Research to Iraq and a national energy policy.

A recent public service announcement video features Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt and Congressman Burgess discussing how Texans will benefit from the “New Medicare Drug Benefits.”


Looking for a federal government job?
Constituents often contact my office inquiring about job opportunities within the federal government. Below are some resources that should help anyone interested in finding employment with the federal government.
/ConstituentServices/jobpostings.htm

Please visit the constituent services section of my website for helpful links!


TOWN HALLS

Lewisville
Saturday, August 13th, 10-11 a.m.
Lewisville City Hall
City Council Chambers
151 West Church Street
Lewisville, Texas 75029

North Richland Hills
Saturday, August 13th, 2-3 p.m.
North Richland Hills City Hall
City Council Chambers
7301 N.E. Loop 820
North Richland Hills, Texas 76180

About Town Hall Meetings
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.



Write Your Representative
To email Congressman Burgess, please click on the above link and follow the simple directions outlined on the website. This process ensures that we receive emails from 26th Congressional District of Texas residents only.


WASHINGTON, DC OFFICE
1721 Longworth HOB
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-7772


LEWISVILLE DISTRICT OFFICE
1660 South Stemmons Freeway
Suite 230
Lewisville, TX 75067
Phone: (972) 434-9700


FT. WORTH DISTRICT OFFICE
Located at the Resource Connection of Tarrant County campus
1100 Circle Drive
Suite 200
Fort Worth, TX 76119
Phone: (817) 531-8454





The e-newsletter is designed to keep you informed on legislative initiatives, news and constituent services from my Washington, Fort Worth and Lewisville offices. Each edition will be unique and tailored to include the timeliest issues. I believe you will find these highlights useful and informative. I encourage you to daily visit my congressional website at www.house.gov/burgess for up-to-the-minute-news.