The Republican Policy Committee
Envisioned as the principal forum for the consideration of forward-looking legislative initiatives the Policy Committee is an important means for every member of the Conference to develop sound legislative ideas into meaningful legislation.

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Fighting for Innocent Taxpayers Expected to Foot the Bill for Massive Housing Program
Posted by: Congressman Scott Garrett (NJ - 05) (05-07-2008, 12:25 PM)

As a member of the Financial Services Committee, I must speak out about the Neighborhood Stabilization Act of 2008 which would put American taxpayers on the hook for a new $15 billion dollar program:
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Wilson Supports GI Bill Modernization
Posted by: Congressman Joe Wilson (SC - 02) (05-06-2008, 02:12 PM)

I am proud to be a cosponsor of H.R. 5944, the Enhancement of Recruitment, Retention, and Readjustment Through Education Act of 2008.  H.R. 5944, introduced by GOP Conference Chairman Adam Putnam (FL - 12), makes needed improvements to the educational benefits provided to our military veterans.  This legislation builds upon the already existing Montgomery GI Bill benefit program to ensure the update is quick and does not impair the program’s effectiveness.
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LET CORPS KEEP CAMPING FEES LOCAL
Posted by: Congressman John Shimkus (IL - 19) (05-06-2008, 12:33 PM)

I am proud to become a cosponsor of legislation that would let the Army Corps of Engineers keep funds generated locally at that same facility. 
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Soaring Fuel Prices Continue
Posted by: Congressman Jo Bonner (AL - 01) (05-05-2008, 02:42 PM)

Day after day gas prices continue to hit record highs, and with the summer travel season just around the corner, there doesn't seem to be any relief in sight.
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Energy Solution Depends on Production Plan
Posted by: Congressman Pat Tiberi (OH - 12) (05-05-2008, 02:36 PM)

We all know that increasing energy prices are hurting Ohio families. Between the rising cost to fill up the gas tank and to heat and cool homes, energy prices are eating away at family budgets. Soaring prices at the pump are compounding transportation costs and are causing food prices to increase, hitting us at every turn.
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Continuing Our Fight to Support America’s Veterans
Posted by: Congressman Scott Garrett (NJ - 05) (05-01-2008, 05:01 PM)

U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) joined me in standing on behalf of our nation’s veterans by pushing legislation which would expand the federal burial benefit to assist veterans’ family members buried in state veterans’ cemeteries.  I introduced this bill last year in the House and Menendez introduced it yesterday in the Senate.
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Reps. Fossella, Boren and Herger Unveil Bipartisan Bill to Encourage Small Employers to Expand & Spur Economic Growth
Posted by: Congressman Vito Fossella (NY - 13) (04-29-2008, 05:07 PM)

Recently, I, along with Dan Boren (D-OK2) and Wally Herger (R-CA2), unveiled bipartisan legislation to encourage small employers to expand and grow their operations, spur investment in local communities and create new jobs.
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“ALL OF THE ABOVE” APPROACH TO ADDRESSING ENERGY COSTS
Posted by: Congressman Zach Wamp (TN - 03) (04-25-2008, 11:34 AM)

The Jetson’s cartoon made many of us think that the car of the future would soar through the air as we fly to our destination. But not many of us would have guessed that the only thing about today’s vehicles that would soar is the cost to keep the tank full of gasoline. Rising fuel costs are bearing down on our nation’s economy and are hampering economic recovery. The more money people have to spend on gasoline, the less they have to spend on other goods or services.
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McCotter Joins GOP Leaders in Asking Speaker Pelosi to Reveal “Commonsense Plan” to Lower Gas Prices
Posted by: Policy Committee Staff (04-24-2008, 04:02 PM)

This week, Chairman McCotter joined fellow GOP leaders in sending a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi regarding the high price of gasoline.  The full text of the letter is below.  Also, click here for an article in The Hill about the letter.
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MODERNIZED GI BILL IS LONG OVERDUE
Posted by: Congressman Zach Wamp (TN - 03) (04-24-2008, 03:24 PM)

After World War II, our country offered education assistance to returning veterans. In the 1940s, the GI Bill was created to pay for veterans' tuition, books, fees, a monthly stipend and other training costs.
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Garrett Calls for Democrat Plan to Decrease Our Nation’s Rising Gas Prices
Posted by: Congressman Scott Garrett (NJ - 05) (04-24-2008, 10:55 AM)

I continue to call for the Democrat majority to stand by their promises and fight our nation’s rising gas prices. 
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Wilson: “We need to restore the American people’s trust in their government.”
Posted by: Congressman Joe Wilson (SC - 02) (04-18-2008, 04:11 PM)

I am proud to have introduced H.R. 1395, the Government Credit Card Abuse Prevention Act of 2007 last month.  This legislation would help put an end to the fraudulent use of government credit cards.  A Senate companion bill, S. 789, introduced by Senator Charles Grassley (R-IA), has recently been cleared by the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee.
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SHIMKUS COSPONSORS BAN ON TEXT MESSAGE ADS
Posted by: Congressman John Shimkus (IL - 19) (04-17-2008, 02:26 PM)

I am proud to be an original cosponsor of legislation introduced last week that would "prohibit the sending of a text message containing an unsolicited advertisement to a cellular telephone..."
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Call For Answers Regarding Bear Stearns Bailout
Posted by: Congressman Scott Garrett (NJ - 05) (04-17-2008, 11:14 AM)

As a member of the House Financial Services Committee, I called for answers from Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke and Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson regarding the recent bailout of Bear Stearns. With the support of 23 Members, I sent a letter to Bernanke and Paulson asking for answers to a series of specific questions involving the Fed’s actions. I have already asked Financial Services Committee Chairman Barney Frank to hold a Congressional hearing about this issue but Chairman Frank has yet to respond.
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Pearce Submits Legislation to Begin New Solar Energy Future for America
Posted by: Congressman Stevan Pearce (NM - 02) (04-17-2008, 10:51 AM)

Recently, I introduced legislation to push America forward toward a new solar energy future for America.  The “Zeroing In America Energy Act”, or ZIA Energy Act, authorizes the Secretary of Interior to begin leasing designated public lands to develop solar energy. 
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Statement on White House Ceremony with Pope Benedict XVI
Posted by: Chairman Thaddeus McCotter (MI - 11) (04-16-2008, 05:44 PM)

Today I attended a ceremony at the White House honoring Pope Benedict XVI. It was a blessing to be a part of the momentous occasion of Pope Benedict's visit to the White House. Like his predecessor, the Holy Father has struck a chord with the American people by serving as a humble servant of God, who is full of timeless wisdom. Pope Benedict reminded us how, during our earthly journey, we are compelled to promote the liberty and dignity of our fellow human beings. His message of renewal and hope touches people of all faiths and has a heartening effect for all humanity throughout our turbulent times. The Holy Father eloquently expressed the moral duty of public officials to serve the least of our brothers and sisters through a humane dialogue Founded upon faith and reason, the first principles upon which our free republic was founded. People of all faiths should pray for the Holy Father; embrace his message of renewal and hope; and wish him a happy birthday.
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Garrett: Kill the Alternative Minimum Tax now
Posted by: Congressman Scott Garrett (NJ - 05) (04-15-2008, 10:46 AM)

The AMT must either be completely eliminated or, at the very least, indexed to inflation.
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Carter statement on Petraeus/Crocker Report
Posted by: Congressman John Carter (TX - 31) (04-10-2008, 05:56 PM)

General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker gave a very honest and clear assessment of the situation on the ground in Iraq.  There is no doubt that Iraq is safer and more stable than it was a year ago, and we have our soldiers to thank for this undeniable success.
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Fallin Reacts to Hearing on Rising Gasoline Prices
Posted by: Congresswoman Mary Fallin (OK - 05) (04-09-2008, 05:08 PM)

As Ranking Member of the Small Business Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight, I was pleased to hold a hearing today to discuss the impact of rising fuel prices on small businesses. The members called several expert witnesses to testify, including Dr. Vincent Orza, a small business owner and Dean of the Meinders School of Business at Oklahoma City University.
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Garrett Calls for Hearing on Feds Bailout of Bear Stearns
Posted by: Congressman Scott Garrett (NJ - 05) (04-08-2008, 11:51 AM)

Today, as a member of the House Financial Services Committee, I strongly urged Chairman Barney Frank to hold a hearing in order to further examine the current actions taken by the Federal Reserve in the recent sale to JP Morgan. Ranking Member Spencer Bachus (AL-6) and other members of the Financial Services Committee signed my letter in support.
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Order Your Republican House Policy Committee CD!
Posted by: Policy Committee Staff (04-07-2008, 03:23 PM)

Interested to hear what’s on the Republican House Policy Committee’s CD? Check out for yourself!  Click here for your copy.  Please be sure to include your name, complete mailing address, phone number, and email address. 
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President Bush Must Skip Communist Olympics
Posted by: Chairman Thaddeus McCotter (MI - 11) (04-07-2008, 11:25 AM)

It’s all the rage to say, “Our GOP has lost its way.”  It’s quite beyond dispute, for the truth remains the truth.    Yet the stock recitation of selected symptoms -- spending, Iraq, Katrina, etc… -- omits a sinister affliction consuming the heirs of Lincoln and Reagan.  The ravenous malady eclipsing our honor is this: Republicans coddle communist China.   No starker episode exhibits our anile need for a moral hospice before we slither into the dust bin of history than the one playing out before Americans’ astonished eyes.  Legacy building with the urgency of a dying Pharaoh staring at an unfinished Sphinx, George Walker Bush is bent upon being the first U.S. President to attend a foreign nation’s Olympics.  The nation in question is communist China, the shock troops of which are presently bludgeoning Tibetan Monks as if they were orange bathrobed baby seals.  (One shudders at the prospect this Tibetan repression is the Chi-coms’ sedulous sally into Olympic demonstration sports.)   Notwithstanding the Global Generation’s remaining misanthropes’ unsophisticated quibbling (i.e., me and mine), our Compassionate Conservative-in-Chief has eagerly RSVP’ed to the communist dictatorship’s dramatic recreation of the Berlin Olympics.  Given “The Decider’s” resolve, hope dims we might disabuse his whimsy that watching a wobbling discus with the wanton butchers of Tiananmen Square can advance the sacred cause of human freedom.  But we are duty-bound to the endeavor, lest as “history with its flickering lamp stumbles along the trail of the past” she finds us fallen from the ranks of honor.   Perhaps we could appeal to our President’s historical sensibilities by reminding the Leader of the Free World that attending this evil regime’s games will forever stain his legacy by depicting him as calloused to the subjugation of Tibet and sundry other communist abominations.  Really, how would this generation of Americans esteem Franklin Roosevelt -- no slouch at setting Presidential precedents -- had he not let the cup of the Berlin Olympics pass from his nicotine stained lips and, instead, pursed them into a smirk with Der Fuerher for Leni Riefenstahl’s lens.   Yes, this assumes Mr. Bush worries he may one day be regarded by posterity in the manner William Manchester recalled a discredited generation of sophisticated British “statesmen”, save one: “And as (Churchill’s) debts mounted and his gloom deepened, England’s indebtedness to Stanley Baldwin rose…in his final deed for the homeland, he joined Chamberlain in telling Tory MPs that if they felt they must deplore totalitarianism and aggression, they must not name names.  It was important, he said, to avoid ‘the danger of referring directly to Germany at a time when we are trying to get on terms with that country.’  Fleet Street cheered.  So did Britain.  These were men of peace.”    In fairness, they were also the jackasses who paved a second road to Hell.   If such an appeal to history’s verdict proves fruitless, we could remind our Commander-in-Chief communist China is:   Arming our enemies;
Engaging in espionage against us, including the use of cyber warfare;
Subjugating Tibet;
Abetting genocide in the Sudan;
Compelling a “One Child Policy” and forcing abortions amongst its people;
Committing predatory trade practices against us;
Denying their people’s God-given human rights;
Subverting sovereign democracies;
Supporting their fellow dictatorships;  and, generally,
Being an unsporting bastion of tyranny. 

Could this partial recounting of the rogue regime’s transgressions against our nation and others prove to the President that attending the communist Chinese Olympics will subvert the moral authority of his position as the Leader of the Free World -- a Free World which, along with the world’s oppressed, will be watching and weighing his participation?   Could this enumeration of grievances against the Chi-coms help the Chief Executive glean that the President of the United States cannot attend these games as a passive spectator?  (This is, after all, why the Chi-coms invited him.)   Could such a factual exposition convince Mr. Bush that attending their Olympics will reinforce our foreign policy “experts’” suicidal communist China “exception” and, in the event, make President Bush’s political statement thus:  “The United States is devoted to the self-evident truth every human being is endowed by their creator with the unalienable right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness -- except in communist China”?   Given these right reasons, would the President reconsider, for the sake of our free republic’s sovereign citizens; and for the sake all the world’s enslaved and oppressed who, yearning to breathe free, believe our nation remains their beacon of liberty and bastion of hope?   Thus ends our lesson in rhetorical questions.   Ever the political masochist, I once circulated a “Dear Colleague” letter to President Bush positing much of the above and requesting he not attend communist China’s Olympics.  Only a handful of brave souls signed my entreaty; undaunted, in September 2007 the missive flew.  Certain I had affixed the correct address of Mr. Bush’s taxpayer-subsidized housing, I am saddened to report he has not replied to this Congressional correspondence with the alacrity he did the Chi-coms’ Olympic invite.   As the Year of the Rat scurries toward the opening ceremonies, however, I and my anti-communist ilk have not been idle.  On April 1, I introduced H.R. 5668, which would bar any United States government official from attending the Beijing games’ ceremonies.  (Importantly, this legislation does not impact our athletes.)  Oh, I know H.R. 5668 requires the President’s signature or a Congressional over-ride of his veto to become law.  Still, while it may not persuade the President to be “unavoidably otherwise occupied elsewhere in the world” during the communist Chinese Olympics, it will meet our moral imperative to our posterity, our country, and the cruel muse of History:   For when, once again, history’s flickering lamp illumes our aged cheeks and strews her lengthening shadows across our fleeting existence, she will avow how the supporters of H.R. 5668 did “march always in the ranks of honor.”   Pray she finds Republicans amongst them.  
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Reps. Fossella & Pascrell Unveil Bipartisan Homebuyers Tax Credit Bill
Posted by: Congressman Vito Fossella (NY - 13) (04-03-2008, 01:09 PM)

The housing crisis is at the heart of the economic slowdown that confronts our nation today. That is why Congressman Bill Pascrell (D-NJ8) and I unveiled bipartisan legislation to provide a temporary homebuyers tax credit of $10,000 in an effort to boost the housing market and spur economic growth.   A homebuyers tax credit would provide an immediate boost to restore the housing market while stabilizing prices and reducing foreclosures. In many communities, housing inventories continue to increase as home prices continue to decline – a recipe for long-term economic trouble unless we act to encourage homeownership. This bill represents a piece of the puzzle to solving the housing crisis. It will also help Americans protect the equity that they have worked so hard to build up over the years.   The legislation would apply to principle residence purchases to protect against speculative purchases, “flipping” or abuse and could be claimed only once by taxpayers. The measure, which is targeted at modest home purchases but acknowledges high-cost areas, would apply only to houses that meet the new GSE conforming loan limits passed in the Economic Stimulus Package – 125f median home price, not to exceed $729,750. In addition, the bill includes an Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) blocker to protect Americans who claim the credit. The tax credit would expire one year after enactment. A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in an individual’s tax liability. For example, a taxpayer with a liability of $15,000 and a tax credit of $10,000 would be required to pay $5,000 in taxes.   This legislation is needed now more than ever because nationwide, seasonally-adjusted home sales decreased from 6.6 million in February 2007 to 5 million in February 2008 -- a decline of nearly 24Home sales have dropped from nearly 7.1 million in 2005 to 6.48 million in 2006 (a decline of 8 Our bill is loosely modeled after the successful mid-1970s tax credit for home purchases, which is credited with reducing a record-high three-year supply of unsold houses, increasing production and boosting housing prices.
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Wilson: “We must remain vigilant and dedicated to our mission in Afghanistan.”
Posted by: Congressman Joe Wilson (SC - 02) (04-03-2008, 12:05 PM)

During a hearing held by the Committee on Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East and South Asia entitled “Strategic Chaos and Taliban Resurgence in Afghanistan,” I made the following remarks.  The main witness at today’s hearing was Retired Lieutenant General David Barno, Director of Near East South Asia Center for Strategic Studies at the National Defense University (NDU).  Before joining NDU, General Barno took part in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.  He has served as Commanding General, United States Army Training Center and Fort Jackson.  “Thank you, Chairman Ackerman for holding this hearing on Afghanistan and our mission there.  “Let me begin, by saying I am forever proud of the hard work and dedication of our military men and women who are serving in Afghanistan.  Over my six visits to Afghanistan to visit with our troops– including four quarterly visits with members of the 218th Brigade Combat Team, my former unitof 28 years, led by Brigadier General Bob Livingston – I have seen how they have answered the call of their nation during a very difficult time.  Their courage and professionalism is inspiring.   “While much progress has been made, there remain many challenges we face in Afghanistan.  The Taliban and their Al Qaeda allies are dedicated to perpetrating a violent and tyrannical society upon the freedom-loving people of Afghanistan.  We cannot and must not permit them to re-establish a safe-haven in that nation that would allow them to plot attacks against American families and our allies around the world.  “From my visits with our troops in Afghanistan, I have seen the progress we have made in training Afghani military and police.  I have seen the hard work of coalition forces and the Afghani government to build that nation’s infrastructure.  We are creating the foundation of a society that will no longer be a breeding ground for radical extremism.   “We must remain vigilant and dedicated to our mission in Afghanistan.  In the Global War on Terrorism, there are many fronts and many missions that demand our attention.  The men and women of our Armed Forces will not take their eye off the ball.  They are committed to winning this war, and we should support their efforts.  I am convinced the best way to protect American families at home is to defeat terrorists overseas.  “Again, I wish to thank Chairman Ackerman and my fellow committee members for this opportunity, and I look forward to the testimony from our witnesses.”
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BILBRAY PRAISES DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY FOR MOVING TO COMPLETE BORDER FENCE
Posted by: Congressman Brian Bilbray (CA - 50) (04-01-2008, 01:43 PM)

As Chairman of the Immigration Reform Caucus, I applaud today’s announcement by the Department of Homeland Security that it will waive certain legal requirements in order to complete hundreds of miles of fencing along the U.S.-Mexico border. Today’s decision by the Department of Homeland Security paves the way for construction of 470 miles of much-needed border fencing.  The completion of this fence – which will total 670 miles when finished – is one of many initiatives that are being undertaken to stop the flow of illegal immigration into our country.  I applaud the Bush Administration and the Department of Homeland Security for recognizing the importance of moving forward with this fence without any further delays.  The American people demand that our borders be secured and this decision will go a long way toward accomplishing that.
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On April Fool’s Day, Boehner Releases Testimony of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez for Dems’ Hearing on Oil Industry
Posted by: Policy Committee Staff (04-01-2008, 12:05 PM)

On this April Fool’s Day, House Republican Leader John Boehner (R-OH) today released written testimony of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, who was not invited to today’s Select Committee for Energy Independence and Global Warming hearing on the oil industry.  Chavez, whose state-owned CITGO is the world’s sixth largest oil supplier, would enjoy significant tax breaks under energy legislation recently passed by the Democrat-led House, in spite of the socialist dictator’s threats to cut off energy supplies to the United States and ongoing anti-American rhetoric and policies.  President Chavez’s testimony follows:   Testimony of Hugo Chavez, President of Venezuela Select Committee for Energy Independence and Global Warming Hearing on “Drilling for Answers: Oil Company Profits, Runaway Prices and the Pursuit of Alternatives” April 1, 2008   Chairman Markey, though I was unable to attend today’s hearing in person, I hope you will accept this written testimony.  More importantly, I hope you will accept my sincere ‘thank you’ for the tax breaks the new Democratic Majority provided to my state-owned oil giant, CITGO, in recent ‘energy’ legislation passed by the House of Representatives.    It is especially relieving to know that while CITGO receives these tax breaks, five other major oil companies – including American-owned companies employing thousands of working Americans – will be forced to pay higher taxes, raising energy costs on consumers in your country and endangering scores of jobs as well.  Please extend my gratitude to Speaker Pelosi, Majority Leader Hoyer, Whip Clyburn, Chairman Emanuel, and everyone who played a role in scheduling this legislation for a vote in the House of Representatives.   Being a socialist dictator is a difficult – and often lonely – burden these days.  As more nations move toward democracy, the number of socialist dictators in our world is declining, and we can use all the help we can get.  As I seek to keep our socialist movement afloat in South America, it is comforting to know that I have such strong allies in the House Democratic Majority.    Though the American economy is struggling and families in your country are feeling the strain from rising costs for everything from food to fuel, I’m pleased the House Majority did not allow these realities to stand in the way of your admirable efforts to raise taxes on them in order to pay for more government spending and, more importantly, my own tax breaks.    Moreover, I am so grateful that you have overlooked my repeated threats to cut off Venezuelan energy supplies to your nation and my consistently cozy relationship with the Castro regime in Cuba – regardless of which Castro is in charge.  To know that I will receive tax breaks not provided to my global competitors, even in spite of my radical Left-wing, authoritarian ideology, gives me great confidence in my future relationship with this Congress.    Before I conclude, I hope you will permit me to make two additional pitches for policy actions out of this Congress.  First, Chairman Markey, I want to applaud the ongoing support that has reportedly been provided by at least one of your House Democratic colleagues for my Marxist brothers in the Colombian FARC – a terrorist organization I have been working closely with to expand my influence in that nation.  News reports recently detailed a trip one senior House Democrat made to Colombia to force Colombian President Alvaro Uribe – an American ally – to position me as a mediator between Colombia and the FARC.  As you might expect, I wholeheartedly supported that effort and strongly encourage similar meetings in the future as well.    Likewise, Mr. Chairman, I strongly encourage you to impress upon your Democratic colleagues how vital it is to my influence in South America that the Majority continues bottling up the so-called U.S.-Colombia free trade agreement.  As you might expect, free trade between your nation and my neighbors in Colombia would be a sharp blow to my efforts to expand my reach throughout South America, and any assistance you can provide me in derailing the agreement would be most appreciated.   In conclusion, Mr. Chairman, though I understand not being invited to today’s politically-motivated, made-for-TV hearing on the oil industry, please know that I am ready and willing to provide whatever assistance I can to advance the House Majority’s policy goals, on energy and otherwise.  I hope you will relay that message to your Democratic leadership team, and I appreciate the opportunity to thank you for your ongoing assistance to my socialist regime.
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Sec. Paulson's Plan to Modernize Financial Services
Posted by: Congressman Vito Fossella (NY - 13) (03-31-2008, 03:13 PM)

As Chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee’s Task Force on Capital Markets, Economic and Information Security,  I believe the Treasury plan is a solid blueprint offered at a critical time. The Blueprint recognizes that to protect investors and provide stability to the markets requires us to modernize and reform the entire system of financial services regulation. We cannot offer stop-gap, band-aid fixes.  A flexible and responsive regulatory system will best provide for the economic growth and job creation that comes with a strong financial services industry.   Many aspects of the Treasury’s plan, including a greater systemic role for the Federal Reserve and consolidation among banking regulators, are consistent with the principles I have unveiled for legislation to reform the system of financial services regulation.  This blueprint, as well as the many other reports issued over the past year, shows Congress the way forward. The only question now is whether Congress will choose to act wisely or veer off towards overregulation. Congress must recognize the events of recent weeks are a call to action. The debate in the weeks ahead will be essential. I commend Secretary Paulson and his colleagues for their work in addressing the competitiveness of the U.S. capital markets.
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Comments on Secretary Paulson’s Proposals
Posted by: Congressman Scott Garrett (NJ - 05) (03-31-2008, 11:55 AM)

As a member of the House Financial Services Committee, I believe it’s imperative that the United States Congress closely examine the recent plan presented by Secretary Paulson. Increased federal regulations are not the answer to our nation’s current economic concerns. Like most Americans, I want market discipline—but the Congress cannot create that by needlessly empowering the Fed. Despite the new ideas offered by the Department of Treasury I believe it’s critical that Congress focus first on the Fed’s recent actions to involve themselves in the Bear Stearns bailout. Without a thorough review of these measures, we will not be able to adequately review the Treasury plan. I want to be assured that the Fed’s action will not leave our nation’s hardworking taxpayers on the hook. I look forward to the opportunity to question Secretary Paulson and Chairman Bernanke about the actions leading up to Federal Reserve’s decision to intervene.
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Five Principles of Legislation to Modernized Oversight of U.S. Financial Markets
Posted by: Congressman Vito Fossella (NY - 13) (03-20-2008, 12:15 PM)

As Chairman of the "Capital Markets, Economic and Information Security" Task Force under the House Republican Policy Committee, I am unveiling the five principles that will serve as the cornerstone of my legislation to reform the regulatory environment to enhance the competitiveness of the U.S. financial markets.
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Comments on Five-Year Anniversary of the Iraq War Commencement
Posted by: Congressman Stevan Pearce (NM - 02) (03-19-2008, 04:07 PM)

We have seen tremendous progress by the Iraqi people to form a secure and democratic country. I continue to view Iraq with cautious optimism, but it is undeniable that the violence has dropped dramatically due in large part to the skill and courage of our armed forces along with the counterinsurgency strategy known as the Surge. The United States has a vital national security interest in ensuring Iraq is a stable and valuable partner in the War on Terror. There has been significant progress toward that goal. As long as our military leaders believe we have role to play in that objective and it is achievable, we should continue to offer our support to the Iraqi people.
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Fifth Anniversary of the Iraq War
Posted by: Congressman Joe Wilson (SC - 02) (03-19-2008, 03:24 PM)

It has been five years since American and coalition forces brought down the dictatorship of Saddam Hussein – a man whose regime had murdered thousands of his own countrymen, threatened nations in the Middle East, and supported terrorist activities both in the region and around the world.  The struggle to quell sectarian violence and defeat Al Qaeda in Iraq has been fraught with many roadblocks, but the courage and professionalism of our troops has continued to prevail.
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Kosovo's Freedom
Posted by: Congressman Scott Garrett (NJ - 05) (02-20-2008, 05:05 PM)

I applaud Kosovo for their historic step towards independence. It is my hope that the international community can join the United States and European Union in support of Kosovo’s recent call for sovereignty. The people of Kosovo should be recognized for their open commitment to freedom, opportunity and peace.
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Castro's decision to retire is a chance at Cuban democracy
Posted by: Congressman Joe Wilson (SC - 02) (02-19-2008, 12:58 PM)

For almost fifty years, Fidel Castro has ruled with an iron-fist as a communist dictator of the Cuban people.  He has repressed their freedoms and stunted their economy.  With reports that he may in fact resign as president, there is a window of opportunity for the Cuban people to begin building a free and democratic society that respects the rights of its people.
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Chairman McCotter on Meet the New Press
Posted by: Policy Committee Staff (02-19-2008, 11:44 AM)

On Saturday, House Republican Policy Chairman Thaddeus McCotter was a guest on "Meet the New Press" radio program out of New Hampshire. The show is hosted by three bloggers, Doug Lambert, Skip Murphy, and Pat Hynes of http://granitegrok.com/
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The Proposed Mortgage Fix
Posted by: Congressman Scott Garrett (NJ - 05) (02-13-2008, 02:36 PM)

Today in Congress I raised my concerns with Secretary Paulson on the proposed mortgage plan. I have serious questions on the GSE limits and how this impacts the nation’s economy and the housing market. I wanted to quickly share with you the comments I made at today’s hearing and look forward to resolving this issue in Congress.
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The City of Berkeley and the Marines
Posted by: Congressman John Carter (TX - 31) (02-12-2008, 04:44 PM)

Recently, I reaffirmed my commitment to our men and women in uniform by cosponsoring two bills condemning the actions taken by the City of Berkeley, California against the United States Marines.
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Rep. Fossella Urges Congress to Reject New Tax on Futures Transactions
Posted by: Congressman Vito Fossella (NY - 13) (02-12-2008, 11:59 AM)

Last year, I was appointed Chairman of the "Capital Markets, Economic and Information Security" Task Force under the House Republican Policy Committee. Since the formation of the Task Force in June 2007, I have met with top officials of the financial services industry in Chicago, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Dallas and other cities.
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CPAC 2008: These Kids are Alright
Posted by: Chairman Thaddeus McCotter (MI - 11) (02-11-2008, 11:08 AM)

While appearing as a panelist at this year’s Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), I was heartened to see so many young conservatives in attendance.
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State of the Union Reaction
Posted by: Congressman Stevan Pearce (NM - 02) (01-29-2008, 05:22 PM)

The President has laid out several important initiatives that should be agreeable and achievable for Congress this year.
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State of the Union Reaction
Posted by: Congressman Scott Garrett (NJ - 05) (01-29-2008, 05:20 PM)

I am very encouraged by the President’s tough stand against wasteful spending in Washington. He pledged to veto any future spending bills that do not cut earmarks in half – building on the steps Republicans have proposed to rein in pork barrel spending.  We simply must put an end to the addictive tax and spend mentality that has run amok here in Washington.  I do, however, have serious concerns about some of the President’s new initiatives, particularly those that would expand federal reach into education policy. If we are truly interested in improving public education in America, we need to remove Washington bureaucrats from the equation and return the control and accountability to local communities where they can effectively meet the needs of local students, teachers, and parents.”
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Earmark Moratorium
Posted by: Policy Committee Staff (01-29-2008, 05:18 PM)

Last Friday, House Republican leaders sent Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) a letter calling on her to join House Republicans in endorsing an immediate moratorium on earmarks and to appoint a bipartisan, bicameral joint committee to reform the earmark process and eliminate wasteful spending. The GOP leaders asked Speaker Pelosi to respond to the request by February 1, 2008 – the end of the House Democratic Caucus retreat. In the letter, House Republicans also outlined a series of earmark reform standards they will adopt immediately, including:
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State of the Union Reaction
Posted by: Congressman Joe Wilson (SC - 02) (01-29-2008, 05:15 PM)

President Bush outlined a strong agenda for the upcoming year.  He made clear that our nation faces many challenges, and that we must address these difficulties in a bipartisan manner.
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Bonus Depreciation and the Economic Stimulus Package
Posted by: Congressman Joe Wilson (SC - 02) (01-25-2008, 11:46 AM)

Today I am happy to report bonus depreciation language was included in the economic stimulus package agreed to by Congressional leadership and the White House. Last year and in the 109th Congress I introduced legislation to extend the bonus depreciation provisions included in the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003.
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Immigration Links
Posted by: Congressman Brian Bilbray (CA - 50) (01-25-2008, 11:42 AM)

Here is an update on Immigration News
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SCHIP Falls Short --Again
Posted by: Vice-Chairman Michael Burgess (TX - 26) (01-24-2008, 12:30 PM)

I feel as if I’m in the Bill Murray movie “Groundhog Day” where the same thing keeps happening over and over again. We have voted on several bad SCHIP bills and then sent them to the President only to have him veto them now for the third time.
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A Fiscally Conservative Stimulus Package
Posted by: Congressman Scott Garrett (NJ - 05) (01-23-2008, 01:29 PM)

Today at a press conference in Washington D.C., I joined several of my Republican colleagues to introduce the Economic Growth Act, an economic stimulus package which promotes job preservation and creation, long term economic growth, and a lower tax burden.
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Immigration Update
Posted by: Congressman Brian Bilbray (CA - 50) (01-23-2008, 01:27 PM)

Here is an update on Immigration news from the Office of Congressman Brian Bilbray
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Beyond Iraq
Posted by: Congressman Zach Wamp (TN - 03) (12-14-2007, 11:09 AM)

Congress returned to Washington this month to close out the first session of the 110th Congress in an unusually sloppy and incomplete manner. Congressional leadership still has plenty of unfinished business to take care of, which could mean that Congress will remain in session right up until Christmas.
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A Win for Small Business
Posted by: Congressman Scott Garrett (NJ - 05) (12-12-2007, 03:46 PM)

Today, I was able to score a win for small business. SEC Chairman Christopher Cox announced that he would extend the deadline for small businesses to file required reports under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley law.  This fight is something I’ve been very active on because I know that small business is the engine of the American economy and that the current Sarbanes Oxley regulations are choking them with red tape and paperwork.
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Pelosi-Reid "No Energy" Energy Bill
Posted by: Congressman Stevan Pearce (NM - 02) (12-05-2007, 02:09 PM)

Born in back rooms behind locked doors and without debate, Speaker Pelosi and Majority Leader Harry Reid have concocted an Energy Bill that dangerously increases our reliance on foreign sources of energy, eliminates progress toward renewable fuels and puts jobs and our economy at risk.
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Let Congress Walk Mile in Shoes of Uninsured
Posted by: Vice-Chairman Michael Burgess (TX - 26) (12-05-2007, 12:23 PM)

A checkup of the American health care system reveals a troubling trend: 48 million Americans lack health insurance. And the side effects are worrisome for everyone as costs rise, care is compromised and confusion reigns in doctors’ offices and operating rooms.
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The Liberty Alliance: Championing Liberty and Dignity in our Human Community
Posted by: Chairman Thaddeus McCotter (MI - 11) (12-04-2007, 04:39 PM)

The poster-child of failed hopes, today’s United Nations (UN) is a global Tammany Hall lethal to the liberty and dignity of our human family.
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We Must Fight for US Veterans and Their Families
Posted by: Policy Committee Staff (11-09-2007, 12:16 PM)

Today, US Representative Scott Garrett (NJ-5) once again stood on behalf of our nation's veterans, offering two pieces of legislation, one to expand the federal burial benefit to assist veterans buried in state veteran’s cemeteries and one to allow veterans to have prescriptions from their private doctors filled by the Veterans Health Administration.
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