Congressman Sander Levin

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Bill to Curb Identity Theft Introduced (Washington D.C.)-  Congressman Sander Levin applauded today the introduction of legislation to help protect seniors and the disabled from identity theft.  The bill, H.R. 6600, of which Rep. Levin is an original cosponsor, would require the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to phase out the display of Medicare beneficiaries’ Social Security numbers on Medicare cards to reduce the likelihood that patients’ numbers can be obtained for use in pernicious identity theft crimes.   7/25/2008

Great Lakes Compact Introduced in Congress (Washington D.C.)-  The Great Lakes Compact, a measure designed to ensure Great Lakes water is not diverted to other regions, will be introduced today in Congress.  The agreement prohibits the bulk diversion of water from the Great Lakes, with very limited exceptions.  The Compact further establishes a comprehensive management framework to protect this shared resource and requires Great Lake states to regulate their own large-scale water use.  7/23/2008

Legislation to Address Housing Crisis to be Voted on Today (Washington D.C.)- In response to the nationwide economic downturn caused by the housing and credit crisis, the House of Representatives today will vote on major legislation to combat the unprecedented rise in foreclosures by helping struggling homeowners refinance their mortgages and increase Community Development Block Grants to help local governments ease the negative impact of rising foreclosure rates on communities and the overall economy.   7/23/2008

First Unemployment Extension Checks to be Sent (Washington D.C.)-  Unemployed individuals throughout Michigan will receive much needed assistance this week, as the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency begins distributing Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) checks tomorrow.  Congress enacted the nationwide, 13-week unemployment insurance extension last month, and, after opposing an extension all year, President Bush relented and signed the extension into law June 30.  Individuals who first claimed regular unemployment benefits on or after May 7, 2006 and have since exhausted their regular 26 weeks of benefits are now eligible for the extension.  Those exhausting their regular benefits in the coming months are eligible to file for an extension through March 28 of 2009.   7/21/2008

Chairmen Rangel and Levin Introduce Trade Enforcement Bill (Washington D.C.)-  House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles B. Rangel (D-NY) and Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander L. Levin (D-MI) today introduced legislation to promote an effective trade agenda by ensuring that U.S. workers, farmers, and businesses are getting a fair shake in the global marketplace and that U.S. consumers have confidence that the products they buy are safe.  Specifically, H.R.6530 will actively open markets by eliminating foreign barriers to U.S. goods and services exports, combat counterfeiting and piracy, restore rights under U.S. trade remedy laws and strengthen the U.S. ability to address unfair and illegal trade practices.  7/17/2008

Michigan Lawmakers Urge President to Release Emergency Energy Funds (Washington D.C.)-  Congressmen Sander Levin, John Dingell, Dale Kildee and 49 other Members of the U.S. House of Representatives have urged President Bush to release emergency funding set aside to help families struggling to afford rising home energy costs.  Democrats and Republicans of the Northeast/Midwest Congressional Coalition sent a letter to President Bush this week urging him to release $120 million dollars in emergency Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding.  $100 million of those funds will expire if not used by the end of the fiscal year.  In Michigan, federally funded home heating assistance to individual families was slashed this year, due to an increased demand for home heating assistance caused by record energy prices. 7/10/2008

Levin Statement on President Signing Extension of Unemployment Benefits (Washington D.C.)-  President Bush today signed H.R. 2642, the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2008, which included a nationwide 13-week extension of unemployment benefits.  Congressman Sander Levin, a vocal proponent of a benefit extension, issued the following statement: 6/30/2008

House Approves Middle Class Tax Relief (Washington D.C.)-  The U.S. House of Representatives today approved legislation to protect more than 25 million families from a tax increase under the alternative minimum tax (AMT).  H.R. 6275, the Alternative Minimum Tax Relief Act of 2008, which would ensure that additional taxpayers, over 800,000 in Michigan, do not face a higher tax bill this year.  The bill passed by a vote of 233-189.   6/25/2008

House Approves Extension of Unemployment Benefits (Washington D.C.)- The House of Representatives tonight approved an extension of unemployment insurance benefits to help the growing number of jobless workers nationwide and to stimulate the economy.  The extension, passed 416-12 as an amendment to the War and Domestic Supplemental Funding package, will extend unemployment benefits for 13 weeks across the country.  President Bush has agreed to approve the measure despite originally saying he would not support an extension of unemployment benefits.  Congressman Sander Levin, a vocal proponent of extending unemployment benefits, spoke on the House floor today in favor of an extension. 6/19/2008

Levin Hails Strong House Vote for Unemployment Extension (Washington D.C.)-  The House of Representatives today passed legislation to extend unemployment insurance benefits to help the growing number of jobless workers nationwide and to stimulate the economy.  H.R. 5749, the Emergency Extended Unemployment Compensation Act, passed by a two-to-one vote, 274-137.  President Bush has threatened to veto the bill, saying that the unemployment rate is too low to warrant an extension—even though he signed an extension in 2002 when the unemployment rate was only two-tenths of one percent higher.  The strong two-thirds vote today suggests the House may be able to override a presidential veto of the measure if necessary.   6/12/2008

Ways and Means Democrats Urge Bush to Support an Extension of Unemployment Benefits (Washington D.C.)- {Responding to today’s report of an enormous increase in the unemployment rate, Representative Sander Levin, along with Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles Rangel and Representative Jim McDermott, sent the following letter today to President Bush: 6/6/2008

House Votes to Combat Oil Cartel Price Fixing (Washington D.C.)-  The House of Representatives today passed legislation to combat record gas prices by cracking down on OPEC-controlled entities and oil companies for oil price fixing.  The bill, the Gas Price Relief for Consumers Act (HR 6074), passed by a vote of 324-84. 5/20/2008

House Approves Extension of Unemployment Benefits (Washington D.C.)- The House of Representatives today passed an extension of unemployment insurance benefits to help the growing number of jobless workers nationwide and to stimulate the economy.  The extension, which was taken up as an amendment to the War and Domestic supplemental funding package, would extend unemployment benefits for 13 weeks across the country and 13 additional weeks in high unemployment states like Michigan. Congressman Sander Levin, a vocal proponent of extending unemployment benefits, spoke on the House Floor today in favor of an extension.   5/15/2008

House Approves Major Bills to Address Housing Crisis (Washington D.C.)-  In response to the nationwide economic downturn caused by the housing and credit crisis, the House of Representatives today approved major legislation to combat the unprecedented rise in foreclosures by helping struggling homeowners refinance their mortgages, encourage the purchase of homes to revive the housing market and address the negative impact of rising foreclosure rates on communities and the overall economy.   5/8/2008

Levin and Fellow Dems to Bush: Lower Gas Prices by Suspending Fill of Strategic Petroleum Reserve Congressman Sander Levin and other lawmakers are calling on President Bush to help working families by taking action to lower the cost of gasoline.  In a letter to the president, Rep. Levin and other House Members urged President Bush to suspend the filling of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR), an action the president has the power to take immediately to lower the price at the pump.  Not only would this action put more oil on the market, it could also have an immediate impact on speculators who are driving up oil prices.  5/8/2008

House Committee Approves Legislation to Help Struggling Homeowners (Washington D.C.)-  In response to the nationwide economic downturn caused by the housing and credit crisis, members of the House Financial Services Committee today approved legislation to combat the unprecedented rise in foreclosures and help struggling homeowners refinance their mortgages.   5/1/2008

House Approves $1 Million in Funding for Roseville Road Repair (Washington D.C.)-  The House of Representatives yesterday approved over $1 million in funding for road repairs in Roseville.  The funds were approved as part of a transportation package, HR 1195, which makes corrections to the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), which passed by a vote of 358-51.  With the Senate previously approving the legislation, the package will now be sent to the president for his signature. 5/1/2008

House Approves Bill to Prevent Genetic Discrimination The House of Representatives today passed legislation to protect patients against discrimination by health insurance providers and employers based on their genetic makeup or predisposition to disease or chronic condition.   H.R. 493, the Genetic Information Non-discrimination Act of 2008, was approved by a vote of 414-1.  Congressman Sander Levin is a co-sponsor of the legislation.  5/1/2008

House Approves Legislation to Protect Lakes from Invasive Species (Washington D.C.)- The House of Representatives today passed HR 2830, the Coast Guard Authorization Act by a vote of 395-7.  One of the bill’s goals is the elimination of invasive species like the zebra mussel from ballast water that is discharged into U.S. waters by 2015. 4/24/2008

House Votes to Stop President's Medicaid Rule Changes That Could Reduce Health Care Coverage and Cost States Billions of Dollars (Washington D.C.)-  The House of Representatives today passed legislation to stop rule changes to Medicaid proposed by the Bush Administration that restrict Medicaid payment in key areas and could reduce coverage and cost the State of Michigan billions of dollars.  H.R. 5613, Protecting the Medicaid Safety Net Act, passed by a vote of 349-62.  This bipartisan bill places a moratorium until March 2009 on seven damaging Administration-imposed Medicaid regulations.  If these regulations were allowed to go into place, they could severely impact state budgets at a time when states are already financially struggling.  Despite the support of all 50 Governors, President Bush has vowed to veto the bill.  4/23/2008

More than 25 Members Join with Dingell, Michigan Democrats to Call for Second Economic Stimulus Package (Washington D.C.)- {In response to the continued economic downturn, four Members of Congress from Michigan joined with their colleagues all across the country from New Hampshire to Southern California in sending a letter initiated by Congressman John D. Dingell (D-MI15) to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi calling for a second, broader economic stimulus initiative.  This is on the heels of a stimulus package which passed Congress and was signed into law in February that provided most taxpayers with a rebate check.  In addition to calling for short-term initiatives to stimulate the economy like extending unemployment benefits, increased infrastructure investment and increased food stamp payments, this letter focuses on creating a strategy for creating well-paying jobs and preparing a workforce in transition.  4/18/2008

Levin Statement on U.S.-South Korea Free Trade Agreement (Washington D.C.)- {Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement regarding the news that the U.S. and South Korea have reached a tentative understanding on access of U.S. beef in the Korean market: 4/18/2008

Rep. Levin Supports Bill to Protect Continued Access to Federal Student Loans (Washington D.C.)-  Congressman Sander Levin today joined a bipartisan majority in the U.S. House of Representatives to approve legislation to ensure that the turmoil in the U.S. financial markets does not keep students and families from accessing the federal student loans they need to pay for college. The Ensuring Continued Access to Federal Student Loans Act of 2008 (H.R. 5715), which carries no new cost for taxpayers, was passed by a vote of 383-27. 4/17/2008

Levin Features Michigan Stories as Committee Passes Legislation to Extend Unemployment Benefits (Washington D.C.)- Congressman Sander Levin highlighted the real faces behind the need to extend unemployment insurance at a House committee mark-up of legislation to extend unemployment benefits today.  Rep. Levin also presented a national map demonstrating county-by-county levels of unemployment for the committee.  The House Ways and Means Committee approved the extension of unemployment benefits by a vote of 23-13.  4/16/2008

House Passes Taxpayer Assistance and Simplification Act Of 2008 (Washington D.C.)-  As taxpayers in Michigan and across the country completed their tax returns today, the House of Representatives passed legislation to improve federal tax preparation procedures, use tax dollars more efficiently and stop companies from avoiding paying taxes by moving offshore.  The Taxpayer Assistance and Simplification Act was passed by the House by a vote of 238-179.  Congressman Sander Levin joined a majority in the House of Representatives in support of the Act. 4/15/2008

House Approves Resolution On China's Crackdown In Tibet (Washington D.C.)-  The House of Representatives today voted to approve House Resolution 1077, “Calling Upon Chinese Government to End Crackdown in Tibet and Begin Substantive Dialogue with the Dalai Lama,” by a vote of 413-1.  The resolution calls on China to end its crackdown in Tibet; enter into a substantive dialogue directly with the Dalai Lama; allow independent monitors, journalists and medical personnel into Tibet; and release all Tibetans who were arrested for non-violently expressing their political views.    4/9/2008

Ways And Means Committee Approves Housing Bill (Washington D.C.)-  A wide bipartisan majority of the House Committee on Ways and Means today approved legislation to help alleviate the national housing crisis.  The Housing Assistance Tax Act of 2008 would provide tax credits to first-time homebuyers, improve access to low-income housing and allow families to deduct property taxes, as well as a provision authored by Congressman Sander Levin to relieve pressure on credit markets and make public projects more affordable for local communities.  The package will help bring stability to the housing market while assisting families in the purchase of their first home and improving access to affordable housing.  The legislation is designed to complement efforts by the House Committee on Financial Services to address the growing rate of foreclosures nationwide. 4/9/2008

Rep. Levin Speaks In Support Of House Resolution On Tibet (Washington D.C.)-  Rep. Sander Levin spoke on the House floor tonight in support of House Resolution 1077, “Calling Upon Chinese Government to End Crackdown in Tibet and Begin Substantive Dialogue with the Dalai Lama.”  The resolution calls on China to end its crackdown in Tibet; enter into a substantive dialogue directly with the Dalai Lama; allow independent monitors, journalists and medical personnel into Tibet; and release all Tibetans who were arrested for non-violently expressing their political views.   4/8/2008

Jobs Report Shows More Evidence Of Overdue Need To Extend Unemployment Insurance (Washington D.C.)-  Congressman Sander Levin called for swift action in the House of Representatives to approve an extension of unemployment insurance benefits after new data showed that the U.S has lost nearly a quarter million jobs in the first quarter of 2008.  Today's Department of Labor employment report showed the number of jobs in the economy dropping for the third consecutive month (declining by 232,000 since December, 80,000 in March alone), and the number of unemployed Americans rising by 434,000 in March (for a total of 7.8 million).  The national unemployment rate went from 4.8% to 5.1%. 4/4/2008

Levin Introduces Bi-partisan Legislation To Further Encourage Advance Medical Plans For Times Of Health Care Crisis (Washington D.C.)- Congressman Sander Levin (D-MI) today introduced bi-partisan legislation with Rep. Michael Castle (R-DE) to help strengthen procedures to encourage individuals to create advanced medical plans to direct health care decisions during times of medical emergency or serious illness.  The bill, The Advance Directive Promotion Act of 2008, is designed to make more Americans aware of advance directives (which include a living will stating an individual’s preference for medical care and a power of attorney for this care) and provide the opportunity for them to discuss them with a physician and ensure they are honored throughout the country. 4/3/2008

Rep. Levin Supports Full Disclosure Of Congressional Earmark Requests On the first day of the 110th Congress, the New Majority in the House adopted rules that require Members requesting an earmark to disclose in writing the name and address of the intended recipient and the purpose of the earmark, and certify the Member (and his or her spouse) has no financial interest in the request.   4/3/2008

Rep. Levin Supports Bill To Expand U.s. Effort To Fight Global Hiv/aids, Tb, And Malaria (Washington D.C.)-  Rep. Sander Levin today joined a bipartisan majority in the House of Representatives in support of landmark legislation that will extend and expand a key initiative to combat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria around the globe.  The Lantos-Hyde U.S. Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Reauthorization was approved by a vote of 308 – 116. 4/2/2008

Rep. Miller And Rep. Levin Urge Funding For Lake St. Clair/st. Clair River Management Plan Congresswoman Candice Miller (MI-10) and Congressman Sander Levin (MI-12) today urged the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy to include funding in the Fiscal Year 2009 for the Lake St. Clair/St. Clair River Management Plan.  Miller and Levin requested $900,000 for implementation of the management plan which is critical to a healthy future for these important waterways.  Miller and Levin released the following statements today:  4/1/2008

Administration Must Adopt New China Trade Strategy (Washington D.C.)-  Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles B. Rangel (D-NY) and Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) joined fellow Committee members on a letter urging President Bush to adopt and implement a new strategy for dealing with China’s persistent currency manipulation and other trade issues. 3/27/2008

Congressman Levin Addresses Lake St. Clair Conference (Harrison Township, MI)- Congressman Sander Levin addressed the 4th Binational Lake St. Clair Conference today, discussing his efforts to restore and protect Lake St. Clair.  The conference, sponsored by the Great Lakes Commission, is a gathering of resource managers, local officials, elected representatives, citizens’ groups, business representatives, local residents and members of the news media with an interest in the Lake St. Clair watershed.  3/19/2008

House Approves Resolution To Strengthen Ethics Enforcement (Washington D.C.)- The House of Representatives today approved a resolution to strengthen congressional ethics enforcement by creating a new Office of Congressional Ethics.  The resolution passed by a vote of 229-182.  The resolution (H.Res. 895) will bring greater accountability and transparency to the ethics enforcement process by creating an independent office, comprised of individuals who are not Members of Congress, to review alleged Congressional ethics violations. 3/12/2008

House Attempts Veto Override Of Bill That Outlaws Torture (Washington D.C.)-  Rep. Levin Votes to OverriThe House of Representatives today attempted to override the President’s veto of the 2008 Intelligence Authorization bill (H.R. 2082).  The President vetoed the bill over a provision that sought to extend to U.S. intelligence agencies the current prohibitions in the Army Field Manual against waterboarding and other torture.  While a majority of Members voted to override the president’s veto, the House fell short of the two-thirds vote necessary to override the veto by a vote of 225-188. 3/11/2008

New Jobs Report: Largest Monthly Jobs Loss In Five Years (Washington D.C.)-  A new jobs report released by the U.S. Department of Labor today showed that the national economy shed 63,000 jobs in February.  The private sector lost 101,000 jobs, the largest decline since March of 2003.  3/7/2008

House Approves Measure To Strengthen Mental Health Care (Washington D.C.)-  The House of Representatives today passed legislation to strengthen mental health care and reduce barriers to treatment in the current health care system.  H.R. 1424, The Paul Wellstone Mental Health and Addiction Equity Act, was approved by a vote of 268-148.  The legislation permanently reauthorizes and expands the Mental Health Parity Act of 1996 to make mental health coverage and substance addiction treatment more accessible and affordable. 3/5/2008

House Passes Energy Bill To Invest In Renewable Energy And Energy Efficiency (Washington D.C.)- The House of Representatives today passed legislation to invest in clean, renewable energy and increased energy efficiency.  The Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act was approved by a vote of 236-182.  The legislation provides tax incentives for renewable electricity, energy and fuel, as well as for plug-in hybrid cars and energy efficient homes, buildings and appliances.  Over time, these incentives will create jobs and help consumers and businesses save billions of dollars on energy bills. 2/27/2008

Congressman Sander Levin Meets With Seniors To Highlight Important Details Of Economic Stimulus Package Roseville/Oak Park, MI-  Congressman Sander Levin held two public meetings with senior citizens today to discuss the state of the economy and outline details of the Recovery Rebates and Economic Stimulus for the American People Act, the bipartisan economic stimulus package enacted February 13.  Congressman Levin held the meetings at senior centers in Roseville and Oak Park. 2/20/2008

Levin/rangel Statement On Enforcing Trade Rules (Washington D.C.)-  House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles B. Rangel (D-NY) and Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following joint statement regarding the 2007 annual trade deficit figures released by the U.S. Department of Commerce today: 2/14/2008

Levin Statement On President's Signing Of Economic Stimulus (Washington D.C.)-  Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) issued the following statement in response to President Bush’s signing of the economic stimulus package passed by Congress last week (H.R. 5140): 2/12/2008

Rep. Levin Statement On Passing Of U.s. Representative Tom Lantos Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement today regarding the passing of U.S. Representative Tom Lantos:  2/11/2008

Levin Statement On Economic Stimulus Package (Washington D.C.)- Both chambers of Congress today overwhelmingly approved a bipartisan economic stimulus package.  The Senate modified the original House legislation which provided rebates to 130 million families to include anyone who receives at least $3,000 in Social Security income, self-employment income or veterans’ disability payments (including payments to survivors of disabled veterans).   This is estimated to add approximately 20 million seniors and 250,000 disabled veterans.   2/7/2008

House Passes Bill To Address Rising College Prices & Remove Other Barriers To College Enrollment (Washington D.C.)-  The U.S. House of Representatives voted today 354-58 in favor of the College Opportunity and Affordability Act (H.R. 4137).  The legislation builds on Congress’ efforts to make college more accessible and affordable.  2/7/2008

Rep. Levin Applauds SSA Decision Partially Suspending Regulation Limiting The Rights Of Disabled Americans To Appeal (Washington D.C.)- The Social Security Administration (SSA) notified Congress late yesterday that the agency would suspend some parts of a controversial proposed regulation that would sharply restrict appeal rights for severely disabled individuals applying for benefits. 1/31/2008

Levin Statement On Economic Stimulus Package The U.S. House of Representatives today overwhelmingly approved a bipartisan economic stimulus package.  The Recovery Rebates and Economic Stimulus for the American People Act passed by a vote of 385-35.  1/29/2008

Levin Response To State of the Union (Washington D.C.)- Congressman Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak), chairman of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, issued the following statement in response to President Bush’s final State of the Union Address: 1/28/2008

Levin Statement on Economic Stimulus Deal Reached (Washington D.C.)-  Congressman Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) issued the following statement in response to today’s tentative agreement by the Bush administration, Speaker Pelosi and Minority Leader Boehner on an economic stimulus package: 1/24/2008

Levin Statement on Attempted S-chip Veto Override (Washington D.C.)-  Congressman Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) issued the following statement in response to House Republicans blocking of an override of President Bush’s veto of an expansion of the federal S-CHIP program today: 1/23/2008

Levin Statement on Bush Economic Stimulus Address (Washington D.C.)-  Congressman Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) issued the following statement in response to President Bush’s address on the need for economic stimulus today: 1/18/2008

Levin Applauds Home Heating Assistance January 17, 2008 (Washington D.C.)-  Congressman Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) today applauded the Bush Administration’s release of $450 million in energy assistance to help families struggling to keep their heat on throughout the winter.   

Local Residents Participate in National Program to Keep Veterans Stories Alive Area residents are taking part in a national program to preserve United States veterans’ stories for future generations.  The Southfield Veterans Commission (SVC) is taking the lead in collecting veterans’ histories as part of the Library of Congress Veterans History Project, a program to preserve first-hand accounts from America’s wartime veterans and civilians that supported the armed forces during war time.  The Veterans History Project is collecting audio- and video-recorded oral histories, along with other first-hand materials such as memoirs, photographs, diaries and letters.   1/7/2008

Local Student Excels as Capitol Hill Page and is Asked to Return for Next Year (Washington D.C.)-  Lianna Stroster of St. Clair Shores was among a small number of students asked to return to Washington, D.C. for a second semester as a Congressional Page.  Congressional Pages study while they are in D.C. and work on the U.S. House Floor while Congress is in Session. 1/3/2008

Macomb County Radio Communications Boosted by Federal Support The federal budget for 2008 approved by Congress yesterday includes funding for Macomb County Emergency Management and Communications.  12/20/2007

House Approves Mortgage Tax Relief Measure The House of Representatives today approved H.R. 3648, the Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Relief Act, to help address the subprime lending crisis and ongoing turmoil in the housing market.  The Senate approved H.R. 3648 on December 14th, and today’s vote sends the measure to the President.  12/18/2007

Levin Supports Landmark Energy Legislation The House of Representatives took final action today on sweeping energy legislation, clearing the measure to be sent to the White House for the President’s signature.  The House approved the energy legislation by a strong bi-partisan majority on a vote of 314-100.  12/18/2007

Levin Supports Comprehensive Energy Bill Congressman Sander M. Levin issued the following statement in support the Energy Independence and Security Act debated on the floor of the House of Representatives today:  12/6/2007

Levin Encourages Party Conventions to Consider Inter-regional Primary Congressman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement today in support of a bi-partisan plan advanced to their respective national party committees by Saul Anuzis, member of the Executive Committee of the Republican Party, and Debbie Dingell, member of the Democratic National Committee, to fix our nation’s process for selecting presidential candidates.   12/4/2007

Lawrence Tech Awarded $1 Million for Composites Research Funds Will Be Used For Development And Testing Of Cutting Edge Materials That Protect U.s. Troops (Washington D.C.)-  U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) announced that Congress has approved $1 million in federal funds for the Center for Innovative Materials Research (CIMR) at Lawrence Technological University in Southfield.  The funds will be used for the development and testing of innovative composite materials for lightweight armor to strengthen vehicles and structures. 11/29/2007

House Stands for New Budget Priorities and Investment in Health, Education and Training The U.S. House of Representatives last night fell short of overriding President Bush’s veto of the Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill.  With 277 members voting for the legislation and 141 voting against, the bill did not meet the two-thirds majority threshold necessary to override a presidential veto.  The budget bill originally was approved in the House and the Senate with bi-partisan margins.   11/16/2007

House Passes Mortgage Reform to Fight Predatory Lending and Curb Foreclosures The U.S. House of Representatives today voted 291-127 in favor of H.R. 3915, the Mortgage Reform and Anti-Predatory Lending Act, bipartisan legislation aimed at protecting homebuyers from predatory lending that has led to the recent mortgage crisis across the country.   11/16/2007

House Approves Bill to Set Timetable for Redeployment of Troops Out of Iraq The U.S. House of Representatives last night voted 218-203 in favor of H.R. 4156, the Orderly and Responsible Iraq Redeployment Act, a bill requiring withdrawal of American combat troops from Iraq.  The legislation requires troop redeployment to begin within 30 days of enactment and sets a December 15, 2008 goal for redeployment completion.  The legislation provides $50 billion to meet the needs of the troops in the field, but does not provide the $200 billion President Bush requested to continue fighting through the end of his presidency.  11/15/2007

House Votes for Middle Class Tax Relief, Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility The U.S. House of Representatives today voted 216-193 in favor of a fiscally responsible tax package to protect more than 23 million families from a tax increase under the alternative minimum tax (AMT).  H.R. 3996, the Temporary Tax Relief Act of 2007, would ensure that no additional taxpayers pay the AMT this year, while also extending important tax credits and deductions set to expire at the end of 2007.   11/9/2007

Levin Urges Vote for Middle Class Tax Relief, Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility The U.S. House of Representatives is expected to vote tomorrow on a fiscally responsible tax package to protect more than 23 million families from a tax increase under the alternative minimum tax (AMT).  H.R. 3996, the Temporary Tax Relief Act of 2007, would ensure that no additional taxpayers pay the AMT this year, while also extending important tax credits and deductions set to expire at the end of 2007.   11/8/2007

U.s. Trade Policy Makes Dramatic Change in Course The U.S. House of Representatives approved 285-132 a bi-lateral trade agreement with Peru that includes for the first time worker rights and environmental standards fully enforceable like all other commercial provisions.  11/8/2007

House Passes Employee Non-discrimination Act The U.S. House of Representatives today approved a measure to end employment discrimination based on sexual orientation.  The bill, H.R. 3996, the Employee Non-Discrimination Act, was approved by a vote of 235-184.  The act would prohibit employment discrimination against lesbian, gay and bisexual Americans.  Similar legislation has been introduced in the House since the 1970s, but this is the first time the bill has reached the Floor of the House of Representatives.  11/7/2007

House Votes to Override Bush's Veto of Water Protection Legislation The U.S. House of Representatives today voted to override President Bush’s veto of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), a bill to provide investment in crucial infrastructure projects to protect lakes, wetlands, coastline and communities near water.  With 361 members voting for the legislation and only 54 voting against, the bill easily passed the two-thirds majority threshold necessary to override a presidential veto.  11/6/2007

One Year After Historic Elections, New Congressional Majority Highlights Accomplishments The New Democratic Congress joined together today to highlight major accomplishments on the one year anniversary of the election which brought about change in both the U.S. House and Senate.     11/1/2007

House Approves Overhaul of Trade Adjustment Assistance to Better Meet Needs of Workers in Global Economy The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a complete overhaul of the federal program to assist workers impacted by globalization.  The Trade and Globalization Assistance Act of 2007 would expand and improve the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Act of 1962 to help more workers that lose their jobs as a result of global trade.  It was approved by a vote of 264 to 157.  10/31/2007

Ways and Means Vote Unanimous on New Peru FTA On a recorded vote, the Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously on the new Peru Free Trade Agreement.  10/31/2007

Picture a New Presidential Primary System Rep. Sander Levin and Senator Bill Nelson have  introduced legislation to reform the Presidential Primary nominating system.  The legislation would establish six primary or caucus dates between March and June.  On each of the dates, a state or group of smaller states from each region of the country would go on every day.  This is not a regional primary system instead every election date would have a fair and representative presence from every region of the country.  10/26/2007

Levin Introduces Legislation to Encourage Donation of Healthy Food To Local Food Banks and Hunger Programs Rep. Sander Levin introduced legislation to make permanent an important provision of the tax code that encourages businesses to donate food inventory to food banks and other hunger-fighting organizations.     10/26/2007

Levin Statement on Rangel Tax Reform Bill Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) today released the following statement regarding Ways and Means Chairman Rangel’s introduction of the Tax Reform and Reduction Act of 2007.  10/25/2007

Ways and Means Committee Approves Overhaul of Trade Adjustment Assistance to Better Meet the Needs of Workers in Global Economy The Ways and Means Committee approved a complete overhaul of the federal program to assist workers impacted by globalization.  The Trade and Globalization Assistance Act of 2007 would expand and improve the program and is expected to be considered by the U.S. House in the next weeks.  10/24/2007

American Workers Seek a New Direction for Trade Policy Amidst growing public skepticism regarding the benefits of trade, President Bush gave a speech today in Miami, Florida on the pending free trade agreements.  House Committee on Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement in response:  10/12/2007

House Ends Outsourcing of Abusive and Inefficient Private Tax Collection Program The House of Representatives today approved by a vote of 232-173 H.R. 3056, the Tax Collection Responsibility Act, which would repeal the Internal Revenue Service’s authority to contract out tax collection to private collection agencies.  Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak), who was an original co-sponsor of the legislation, praised the House’s action to end this failed experiment in outsourcing essential government services.  10/10/2007

House Approves Mortgage Tax Relief The House of Representatives today approved H.R. 3648, the Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Relief Act, by a wide bipartisan majority [386-27] to help address the subprime lending crisis and ongoing turmoil in the housing market.  Included in the bill was a provision authored by Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) to extend the deductibility of mortgage insurance premiums.   10/4/2007

Levin Statement In Support of the State Children's Health Insurance Reauthorization Act of 2007 (Washington D.C.)- U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) made the following floor statement in support of the State Children's Health Insurance Reauthorization Act of 2007:  9/25/2007

Report by Trade Commission Highlights Repeated Failure of Korea to Open Markets Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement regarding the International Trade Commission (ITC)’s Report:  U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement: Potential Economy-wide and Selected Sectoral Effects.  9/20/2007

Rep. Levin Welcomes Senate Introduction of Presidential Primary Reform Bill (Washington D.C.)-  Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) and Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL) and Senator Carl Levin (D-MI) have joined together to reform the presidential primary nominating system.  Senator Nelson today introduced companion legislation to Rep. Levin’s interregional primary reform bill introduced earlier this year. 9/6/2007

Rep. Levin on Legislation to Address Ubit Rules that Encourage Off-shore Investment (Washington D.C.)-  Today Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) introduced legislation to allow tax-exempt entities to invest directly in US-based hedge funds rather than routing their investments offshore.  Levin was joined by Ways & Means Committee Members Reps. Jim McDermott, John Lewis, Earl Pomeroy, Earl Blumenauer, Bill Pascrell, Shelley Berkley, and Chris Van Hollen. 9/6/2007

Levin Announces Congressional Page Appointment Lianna Stroser of St. Clair Shores (Washington D.C.)-  U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) is pleased to sponsor Lianna Stroster, a junior at Lake Shore High School in, for the Congressional Page Program offered by the U.S. House of Representatives.  Ms. Stroster will serve as a Congressional Page from September 2, 2007 through January 25, 2008 in Washington, D.C. 8/1/2007

Levin to Hold Hearing on China Trade Legislation (Washington D.C.)-  The Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, chaired by Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), is holding a hearing on Thursday, August 2, 2007 to review legislation introduced on trade with China.  The hearing will take place in the main Committee hearing room, 1100 Longworth House Office Building, at 9:00 a.m. 8/1/2007

Congress Approves Health Care for Kids (Washington D.C.)-  Today, the House of Representatives is expected to approve the CHAMP Act of 2007, which provides funding for the re-authorization of the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) and improves Medicare for all beneficiaries. The SCHIP program currently provides health coverage for 6 million low-income children nationwide and 55,000 kids in Michigan alone.   8/1/2007

Lake St. Clair Funding Clears Another Hurtle Water Resources Bill Calls for Up to $20 Million to Restore Lake St. Clair (Washington D.C.)- The House of Representatives is expected to adopt legislation later today that calls for up to $20 million to implement restoration projects in Lake St. Clair.  The Lake St. Clair restoration language was requested earlier this year by Representative Sander Levin. Senators Levin and Stabenow worked to gain Senate approval of the language.  8/1/2007

Rep. Levin Discloses Earmark Request for 2008 These are Rep. Sander Levin’s Project-Specific Appropriations Requests for FY 2008. 7/31/2007

Levin, Miller Announce Funding for Emergency Radios (Washington D.C.) -  U.S. Representatives Candice Miller and Sander Levin today announced the allocation of $1.075 million in federal funding for interoperable communications for Macomb County Emergency Management. The funding was made possible through dual requests made by Reps. Miller (R-10) and Levin (D-12). 7/26/2007

Congress Stands Up for Great Lakes Moves to Stop Indiana From Issuing Permit to Dump Ammonia into Lake Michigan (Washington D.C.) - Standing up for one of our great natural resources, the House of Representatives will vote today on a resolution to express disapproval of the State of Indiana Department of Environmental Management for its decision to allow British Petroleum (BP) to dump ammonia and suspended solids into Lake Michigan. This resolution reflects the commitment from Congress to protect the waters of the Great Lakes, a crucial resource for the region.  7/24/2007

House Approves Education/HHS Appropriations Bill Funds Education and Research (Washington D.C.)-  Today, the House of Representatives approved H.R. 3043, the “Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008.” This bill restores, in a fiscally responsible manner, funding for important education, labor, and health priorities. Some of these include increases in financial aid for college students, a strong investment in No Child Left Behind, expanding access to health care for the uninsured, and investing in medical research to cure life threatening diseases. 7/19/2007

House Votes to Increase Funding for Renewable Energy and Vehicle Technology (Washington D.C.) -  With rising energy costs hitting consumers hard, and with growing concern over our dependence on foreign oil, the House of Representatives voted, 312 to 112, to significantly increase funding for renewable energy, energy efficiency, and new vehicle technology. The new research and development funding was included in the annual funding bill by the Department of Energy and the Army Corps of Engineers. 7/18/2007

Rep. Levin Corrects Record on Iraqi Refugees in Michigan In response to a number of inquiries to his Congressional office regarding Iraqi refugees relocating to Macomb county communities, Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement:  7/18/2007

House Ways and Means Committee Passes Social Security Number Privacy and Identity Theft Act In a unanimous vote, the House Ways and Means Committee approved legislation today to strengthen protections of Americans’ Social Security Numbers (SSNs). Recent reports indicate that between 10 and 15 million individuals are victims of some form of identity theft every year. Law enforcement experts and the Government Accountability Office have all reported that the SSN is the most valuable piece of information for identity thieves because it unlocks access to other personally identifiable information and is often relied upon by creditors and other businesses to authenticate identity.  7/18/2007

House to Consider Legislation Requiring Redeployment from Iraq Requires Redeployment Within 120 Days (Washington D.C.)-  Today, the House of Representatives is debating H.R. 2956, the Responsible Redeployment from Iraq Act.  The legislation requires the Secretary of Defense to begin the redeployment of U.S. combat troops from Iraq within 120 days of enactment, and complete the reduction in U.S. forces by April 1, 2008.   7/12/2007

House Passes Single Largest Investment in College Aid Since Gi Bill (Washington D.C.)-  Rep. Sander Levin today voted for legislation that would make the largest investment in college financial aid since the 1944 GI Bill. This bill helps millions of Americans pay for college, at no cost to taxpayers.  7/11/2007

Levin and Democrats Introduce Legislation to End Carried Interest Tax Advantage Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), along with Chairmen Charles Rangel and Barney Frank and Ways and Means Members Reps. Pete Stark, Jim McDermott, John Lewis, Richard Neal, Earl Pomeroy, Stephanie Tubbs Jones, John Larson, Earl Blumenauer, Ron Kind, and Bill Pascrell introduced legislation that would ensure that investment fund managers who take a share of the funds’ profits as compensation for investment management services, known as “carried interest” would be taxed at an appropriate ordinary income tax rate. Currently, the managers of private investment partnerships are able to receive compensation for these services at the much lower 15% capital gains tax rate rather that the ordinary income tax rate by virtue of their fund’s partnership structure.  6/22/2007

Levin Details Problems With Korea FTA at Hearing of the International Trade Commission {U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, made the following statement today at the International Trade Commission:  6/20/2007

House Debates Veterans Funding Bill: Demcorats Fulfill Promises to Nation's Veterans Today the U.S. House of Representatives debates HR 2642, the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2008.  The bill contains historic increases in Veterans Administration (VA) spending, increasing the VA budget by $6.7 billion above the Fiscal Year 2007 level.   6/15/2007

Information on the House Page Program I am hoping you can help spread the word about a wonderful, but time-sensitive, opportunity for students living in the 12th Congressional District: the U.S. House of Representatives Page program.  This is a wonderful opportunity for students.  High school pages learn about Congress, as they live in Washington DC, enter a semester-long course of study and work as support staff for the House of Representatives.  6/8/2007

MI Delegation Introduces American Manufacturing Initiatve: Michigan Democrats Call for Comprehensive Initiative to Revitalize U.S. Manufacturing (Washington D.C.)- WASHINGTON –Michigan Democrats today laid out a comprehensive agenda to revitalize our domestic manufacturing industry and respond to the loss of millions of U.S. manufacturing jobs. Their American Manufacturing Initiative (AMI) would bring together government, private industry, and academia in a robust partnership aimed at turning around the manufacturing sector of the U.S. economy.  5/23/2007

American Manufacturing Initiative: A Proposal from Michigan Democrats to Boost the U.S. Economy I. MANUFACTURING INCENTIVES AND MANDATES  5/22/2007

MSU Satellite and Macomb County Perfect Match Reps. Sander Levin (D-MI-12) and Candice Miller (R-MI-10) released the following joint statement in response to recent deliberations regarding the new location for a satellite campus for the Michigan State University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine:  5/15/2007

Congress and Administration Announce New Trade Policy Members of the Democratic and Republican Congressional leadership led by Speaker Nancy Pelosi joined with key Administration officials today to announce an agreement on a new trade policy for America.  Today's announcement was the culmination of months of negotiations between Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles B. Rangel (D-NY), Ranking Member Jim McCrery (R-LA), Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI), Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Wally Herger (R-CA) and the Administration.   5/10/2007

Levin Opening Statement at Tripartite Hearing on Currency U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, made the following opening remarks today during the Tripartite Hearing on Currency, "Currency Manipulation and Its Effect of U.S. Businesses and Workers," convening Subcommittees of Ways and Means, Financial Services, and Energy and Commerce:  5/9/2007

Winners of the 2007 Congressional Art Competition At an awards reception at the Macomb Community College, U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) announced the winners of the 2007 Congressional Arts Competition of the 12th Congressional District, An Artistic Discovery, the nationwide Congressional Art Competition coordinated and conducted by Members of the House of Representatives in their districts. Levin hosted an awards reception for all participants showcasing the competition's artwork from throughout the 12th Congressional District.  5/4/2007

Levin, Camp Introduce Investment in America Act U.S. Reps. Sander Levin (D-MI) and Dave Camp (R-MI) today introduced the Investment in America Act of 2007, bi-partisan legislation to strengthen and make permanent the Research and Development Tax Credit.  Levin and Camp are both senior members of the House Ways and Means Committee.  Twenty-eight of their colleagues on the Committee joined them in introducing the legislation.  5/3/2007

Levin Supports Veto Override of Iraq Accountability Act U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) today voted in favor of overriding the President's veto of the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Health and Iraq Accountability Act.  The President's veto ignores the American people's call for a new direction in Iraq.  This measure would have required accountability from both the Bush Administration and the Iraqi government for the first time.   Although the bill received a majority of support with a vote of 222 to 203, with one voting present, it did not achieve the two-thirds required to override the veto.  5/2/2007

House Approves Bill to Limit Canadian Trash The U.S. House of Representatives today unanimously approved H.R. 518, the International Solid Waste Importation Act. Introduced by U.S. Rep. John Dingell (D-Dearborn), the measure has been co-sponsored by every single Michigan member of the House including U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak).  4/24/2007

4-year Public University Key to Macomb's Future U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) welcomed a key recommendation of a blue ribbon Commission appointed by Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and an independent report developed by the Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP), a leading higher education policy research group, that a 4-year public institution of higher learning be established in Macomb County. The Commission and the Institute had analyzed higher education attainment in the County and the need for a four-year public institution.  4/23/2007

House Passes Water Resources Development Act The House of Representatives today passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), on a broad bi-partisan vote of 394 to 25, which includes a provision calling for up to $10 million a year to implement restoration projects in Lake St. Clair. Just last month, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee approved the St. Clair Shore restoration language requested by U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak).  4/19/2007

Trade Deficit Continues at Unsustainable Pace U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, today offered the following comments as the U.S. Department of Commerce released its monthly trade deficit figures:  4/13/2007

Levin Responds To China WTO Intellectual Property Cases The United States Trade Representative today announced the filing of a formal complaint against China within the World Trade Organization (WTO) over the inadequate market access for American goods and Chinese enforcement of intellectual property rights.  House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement today in response: 4/9/2007

Levin Reacts to Recess Appointment Of Biggs To Social Security Administration U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), a senior member of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Social Security, issued the following reaction to the recess appointment of Andrew Biggs as Principal Deputy Commissioner of Social Security - the second-in-command at the agency:  4/5/2007

Levin Statement On U.S. - South Korea FTA House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI) today issued the following statement upon completion of the U.S.-South Korea free trade agreement (FTA):  4/2/2007

Rangel And Levin Respond to Commerce Subsidy Investigation House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles B. Rangel (D-NY), and Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI), issued the following joint statement today in response to the U.S. Department of Commerce decision to continue its investigation into the subsidization of Chinese paper products: 3/30/2007

Rangel and Levin Seek Extension of Trade Preferences for the Andean Nations of Peru, Colombia, Bolivia and Ecuador Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles B. Rangel (D-NY) and Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI), introduced legislation today to provide a two-year extension of trade preferences for the Andean nations of Peru, Colombia, Ecuador and Bolivia.  The bill would extend the preferences given under the Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA) and the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug Eradication Act (ATPDEA).  The ATPDEA provides critical trade benefits to these developing nations, which have resulted in job creation and economic development.   3/29/2007

Administration Must Change Course in U.S.-South Korea FTA Negotiations As the March 31st deadline for notifying the U.S.-South Korea Free Trade Agreement approaches, Democratic Congressional leaders strongly urged the Bush Administration to change the course of negotiations to re-establish a bipartisan foundation for trade policy.  The Democratic Leaders are concerned that the current negotiation strategy is inadequate to tear down South Korea's "iron curtain" to American manufacturing.   3/29/2007

Rangel and Levin Unveil New Trade Policy for America House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles B. Rangel (D-NY), and Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI), today unveiled "A New Trade Policy for America," to improve pending free trade agreements and allow for bipartisan support in the House.   3/27/2007

Levin Supports Iraq Supplemental Bill U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) today voted in favor of the Iraq Supplemental Appropriations Bill - H.R. 1591, the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Health and Iraq Accountability Act. The measure passed on a vote of 218 to 212.  3/23/2007

Chairman Levin Opening Statement at Trade Subcommittee Hearing on U.S. - South Korea FTA As the United States and South Korea complete the 8th round of negotiations, U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), Chairman of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, today made the following opening statement at the Trade Subcommittee Hearing on the U.S. - Korea Free Trade Agreement:  3/20/2007

Funding for Lake St. Clair Restoration Clears First Hurdle A key committee in the House of Representatives signed off on the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) legislation today that includes a provision calling for up to $10 million a year to implement restoration projects in Lake St. Clair.  The Lake St. Clair restoration language was requested by U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) in a letter to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee earlier this year (see below letter).  3/15/2007

Chairman Levin's Opening Statement at Subcommittee Hearing on Nonmarket Economy Trade Remedy Act of 2007 U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, today made the following opening statement at the Trade Subcommittee Hearing on the Nonmarket Economy Trade Remedy Act of 2007:  3/15/2007

"Rush to the Front" Spotlights Need for Comprehensive Reform of Presidential Nominating System With just a year until the traditional Super Tuesday Presidential primary, U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) today introduced the "Interregional Presidential Primary and Caucus Act of 2007," a bill that would create an interregional system for the selection of delegates to Presidential nominating conventions through primaries and caucuses.   Levin called his bill a "long overdue step towards fixing the broken system of the Presidential primary and caucus schedule."  3/14/2007

Address by King Abdullah Ii Ibn Al Hussein, King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan (Washington D.C.)- King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussein, King of the Hasehemite Kingdom of Jordan, made the following speech to a Joint Session of Congress on Wednesday, March 7th:  3/7/2007

Levin Trade Speech: Using Trade as a Tool to Shape Globalization U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, today delivered a trade speech entitled, "Using Trade as a Tool to Shape Globalization," at the Center for American Progress (CAP).  3/5/2007

PROPOSAL TO OPEN KOREA'S CLOSED MARKET SENT TO PRESIDENT TO JUMPSTART NEGOTIATIONS As the U.S. and South Korea Free Trade Agreement enters into the eighth round of negotiations, a broad range of Members of Congress today presented a groundbreaking proposal to address South Korea?s closed automotive market.  3/2/2007

WATCH U.S. REP. LEVIN SPEAK ON THE IRAQ RESOLUTION U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives today in support of the Iraq Resolution.  2/15/2007

CHAIRMAN LEVIN'S OPENING STATEMENT DURING TRADE HEARING ON CHINA U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, today offered the following opening statement - as prepared for delivery - of the Trade Subcommittee Hearing on trade with China:  2/15/2007

LEVIN OPENING STATEMENT AT WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE HEARING ON U.S. TRADE AGENDA U.S. Rep. Sander Levin, Chairman of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, today made the following opening statement at the Ways and Means Committee Hearing on the U.S. Trade Agenda with Ambassador Schwab:  2/14/2007

CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS URGE BUSH TO ACT AS 2006 ANNUAL TRADE DEFICIT BREAKS ALL TIME RECORD As the United States Department of Commerce released its 2006 annual trade deficit figures today revealing another record-breaking year of $764 billion, Democratic Congressional leaders urged the Bush Administration to chart a new direction in U.S. trade policy that addresses the explosive U.S. trade deficit and promotes broad-based equitable growth for all Americans. The 2006 trade deficit represents a 6.5 percent increase over the 2005 record. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD), House Ways and Means Chairman Charles B. Rangel (D-NY), and Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI), joined key House Ways and Means Members in sending the following letter to President Bush:  2/13/2007

ADMINISTRATION MUST SHIFT COURSE ON TRADE POLICY PRIOR TO TPA EXTENSION U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, offered the following statement after United States Trade Representative Susan Schwab spoke at the National Press Club on the extension of Trade Promotion Authority (TPA):  2/12/2007

CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS URGE PAULSON TO PRESS JAPAN OVER YEN AT G-7 SUMMIT As the Group of Seven Finance Ministers convene in Essen, Germany today, Congressional leaders urged Secretary of the Treasury, Henry M. Paulson, Jr., join European leaders in pressing the Japanese on the issue of the value of the Yen. House Ways and Means Chairman Charles B. Rangel (D-NY), Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI), Energy and Commerce Chairman John D. Dingell (D-MI), and Financial Services Chairman Barney Frank (D-MA), sent the following letter yesterday to Secretary Paulson:  2/9/2007

CHINA MUST BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES Today, United States Trade Representative (USTR) Susan Schwab announced her intent to bring a case before the World Trade Organization (WTO) to deal with China's unfair subsidies. Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander M. Levin issued the following statement in response: 2/2/2007

HOUSE CLEANS UP BUDGET MESS The Democratic House of Representatives today passed H.J.Res. 20, a Continuing Resolution funding the Federal Government aimed at cleaning up the budgetary mess left by the Republicans last Congress, on a vote of 286 to 140. The new Congress set priorities by providing additional funding for key Veterans healthcare, highways, and education programs, while putting moratorium on all earmarks until a reformed process is put in place to restore an accountable, above-board, transparent process for funding decisions.  1/31/2007

LEVIN: ADMINISTRATION MUST CHANGE COURSE ON U.S. TRADE POLICY PRIOR TO EXTENSION OF TPA U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, offered the following statement regarding trade policy and Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) after the President's speech at Caterpillar Inc., in Illinois.  1/30/2007

LEVIN REACTS TO STATE OF THE UNION (Washington D.C.)- U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, offered the following comment in reaction to the State of the Union Address:  1/23/2007

LEVIN VOTES TO END BIG OIL TAX BREAKS AND INVEST IN ALTERNATIVE ENERGY Completing the House Democratic Leadership's 100 Legislative Hour Agenda, the House of Representatives today passed H.R. 6, the CLEAN Energy Act, on a bipartisan vote of 264 to 163. The measure will repeal $13 billion in subsidies and tax breaks for Big Oil companies, and use the savings to invest in clean renewable and alternative fuels and energy efficiency. U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak), an original cosponsor of the bill, applauded its passage saying it "charted a new course on energy security."  1/18/2007

DEMOCRATIC HOUSE MAKES COLLEGE MORE AFFORDABLE AND ACCESSIBLE BY CUTTING INTEREST RATES ON STUDENT LOANS Today, the Democratically-controlled House of Representatives passed H.R. 5, the College Student Relief Act, on a broad bipartisan vote of 356 to 71. This measure will cut the interest rate on subsidized student loans for undergraduates in half over the next five years -- from 6.8% today to 3.4% by 2011. Under this bill, which would take effect starting in July, the average Michigan student starting school in 2007 would save $2,190 over the life of the loan; those starting in 2011 would save $4,240 over the life of the loan, according to a report by US PIRG. This aid is provided at no additional cost to taxpayers as the bill is fully offset by trimming the subsidies paid to lenders and guaranty agencies on these student loans by the federal government.  1/17/2007

U.S. TRADE POLICY MUST SHAPE GLOBALIZATION AND INSIST UPON A TWO-WAY STREET U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement following the Ways and Means Committee formal organization meeting about his priorities for the 110th Congress as Chair of the Trade Subcommittee.  1/17/2007

VEHICLE SUPPLIERS PLAY MAJOR ROLE IN AMERICAN ECONOMY The Motor Equipment Manufactures Association (MEMA) today released a study highlighting the valuable economic contribution of the motor vehicle parts supplier industry to the overall U.S. economy.  1/17/2007

BIPARTISAN STEM CELL BILL APPROVED BY HOUSE Continuing to implement their 100 Legislative Hour Agenda, the Democratic House of Representatives voted today to significantly expand stem cell research, by approving the DeGette-Castle Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act - H.R. 3 - on a bipartisan vote of 253 to 174. U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak), an original cosponsor and ardent supporter of stem cell research, hailed the bill's passage.  1/11/2007

LEVIN VOTES TO GIVE AMERICA'S WORKING FAMILIES A PAY RAISE The Democratic-controlled House of Representatives today voted to raise the federal minimum wage keeping their promise to give American families a pay raise. U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak), an original cosponsor, voted in support of H.R. 2 - which passed with wide bipartisan support on a vote of 315 to 116 - that would raise the minimum wage to $7.25 an hour over two years benefiting nearly 13 million American workers and their families.  1/10/2007

PATH OF SKYROCKETING TRADE IMBALANCES SIGNALS NEED FOR STRONG CONGRESSIONAL OVERSIGHT U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, today offered the following comments as the U.S Department of Commerce released its monthly trade deficit figures:  1/10/2007

HOUSE PASSES 9/11 COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS The Democratic House of Representatives today launched their 100 Hour Legislative Agenda by approving a measure that would implement the 9/11 Commission Recommendations designed to make America safer. Implementing the 9/11 Commission Recommendations - H.R. 1 - won passage with bipartisan support passing on a vote of 299 to 128. U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) voted in favor of the measure and was an original co-sponsor. According to a Gallop/USA Today poll, 62 percent of the American public support implementing the 9/11 recommendations [10/06].  1/9/2007

LEVIN DISCUSSES U.S. TRADE POLICY As the gavel came down to open the 110th Congress, U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) participated in the Democratic Caucus' "Radio Row" to discuss the Democrats agenda - the 100 Legislative Hours.  1/5/2007

DEMOCRATIC HOUSE PASSES ETHICS REFORM ON 1ST DAY The new Democratic 110th Congress today passed an aggressive ethics reform package to restore public trust in the Congress. U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) today applauded the passage of The Honest Leadership and Open Government bill during the opening of the 110th Congress.  1/5/2007

LEVIN STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT FORD U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) offered the following comments today regarding the death of President Gerald R. Ford:  12/27/2006

TRADE DEFICIT FIGURES CONTINUES DISTURBING PATH TO RECORD DEFICIT U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, today offered the following comments as the U.S Department of Commerce released its monthly trade deficit figures:  12/12/2006

JOHANNA'S LAW WINS CONGRESSIONAL APPROVAL U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) today announced that Johanna's Law - a bill that would authorize a federal campaign to increase early detection of Gynecologic Cancer - has been approved by both Houses of Congress and will head to the President for his signature.  Johanna's Law, first introduced by Mr. Levin in 2003, is named after Johanna Silver Gordon, a local teacher who died of ovarian cancer in 2000.  In his remarks, Levin praised Johanna's family and the coalition of cancer survivors, family members, and medical professionals whose dedication and hard work resulted in its passage.  12/10/2006

Congress Reauthorizes Anti-drug Program U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) today announced that the Drug Free Communities Act, which was created with bipartisan support in 1997, has been reauthorized. Passed earlier this year by the U.S. House of Representatives, the Senate tonight cleared the measure for the President's signature. Levin was the original co-author of the legislation that established the Drug Free Communities program in 1997.  12/8/2006

LEVIN COMMENTS ON FRINK RESIGNATION U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) made the following statement in reaction to the resignation of the Assistant Secretary for Manufacturing and Services, Al Frink:  12/6/2006

TRADE WITH SOUTH KOREA MUST BE TWO-WAY STREET U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, today offered the following statement on the beginning of the fifth round of negotiations of the U.S. - South Korea FTA in Montana:  12/4/2006

DELEGATION CALLS ON PRESIDENT FOR "VIGOROUS FEDERAL ACTION" ON AUTO ISSUES All 17 Members of the Michigan Congressional Delegation called on President Bush to take action on issues he discussed with the CEOs of the US automakers in a meeting last week. The top executives from General Motors, Ford Motor Company and the Chrysler Group discussed with the President the competitive disadvantages US companies face with international competitors on issues like trade, healthcare and getting advanced technologies to the marketplace in a swift manner. The Michigan Delegation looks forward to continuing the dialogue with both the CEOs and the President. In support of the efforts of the executives of the Big 3, Michigan Congressional Members shared their concerns with the President in the following letter:  11/22/2006

JOHANNA'S LAW MAKES GREAT LEAP FORWARD U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) today announced that Johanna's Law - a bill that would authorize a federal campaign to increase early detection of Gynecologic Cancer - has been approved by the United States House of Representatives.  Johanna's Law, first introduced by Mr. Levin in 2003, is named after Johanna Silver Gordon, a local teacher who died of ovarian cancer in 2000.  Levin, who spoke in support of the measure on the House Floor, praised Johanna's family and the coalition of cancer survivors, family members, and medical professionals whose dedication and hard work resulted in the House vote. Levin applauded the bill's passage calling the bill "significant progress for women's health."  11/14/2006

LEVIN NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR NOMINATIONS TO THE U.S. SERVICE ACADEMIES (Washington D.C.)- U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) is currently accepting applications for nominations to the four U.S. Service Academies for the class of 2011.  Applicants must live in the 12th Congressional District, and must be U.S. citizens between the ages of 17 and 21.  All applicants seeking an appointment to the Academies must first receive a nomination from one of the three authorized nominating sources: U.S. Representative, U.S. Senator, and the Vice President.  10/24/2006

LEVIN UKRAINIAN FAMINE MEMORIAL BILL APPROVED BY CONGRESS The Senate unanimously approved H.R. 562 last week, a bill introduced by Representative Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) to allow the Government of Ukraine to donate a memorial in Washington, DC honoring the victims of the Ukrainian Famine-Genocide of 1932-33.  The House of Representatives approved H.R. 562 last November, and the Senate?s action sends the bill to the President for his signature.  10/5/2006

OVER 90% OF NEW MEDICARE PRESCRIPTION DRUG PROGRAM ENROLLEES IN MICHIGAN AT RISK OF FALLING INTO THE DOUGHNUT-HOLE After seniors battled months of confusing and inaccurate enrollment information surrounding the Medicare Prescription Drug program, Democrats on the House Ways and Means Committee, led by senior members including U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak), today released a Congressional Report that found that 91% of newly enrolled Medicare Part D beneficiaries in Michigan are at risk of falling into the "doughnut-hole," the part of the program that contains a gap in coverage where beneficiaries continue to pay premiums without receiving financial coverage for medicines.  Michigan's percentage is above the already high national average of 88%. The report also concluded that only 7% of new enrollees -- 1% of Michigan's total Medicare population -- gained full, uninterrupted coverage through the new law.  9/21/2006

LEVIN HONORED FOR COMBATING DRUG ABUSE BY LEADING ANTI-DRUG ORGANIZATION The Partnership for Drug-Free America (Partnership) today presented select members of the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate "Guardian Awards" to honor each Member's active commitment to protecting children and families from substance abuse. U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) received a Guardian Award presented by Partnership CEO Stephen J. Pasierb. In addition, the Macomb County Prevention Coalition will present an award in Levin's name to Dana Gire for his excellent work as the Prevention and Training Coordinator at the Macomb County Office of Substance Abuse.  9/19/2006

LEVIN RISES IN SUPPORT OF CANADIAN TRASH BILL AS POSSIBLE FURTHER STEP Speaking on the House floor today in strong support of an issue of great importance to the people of Michigan, U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) made the following statement regarding H.R. 2491 - The International Solid Waste Importation and Management Act of 2006:  9/6/2006

U.S.-SOUTH KOREAN FTA MUST TEAR DOWN HISTORIC AUTOMOTIVE TRADE BARRIERS AND OPEN MARKET ACCESS IN SOUTH KOREA As the third round of trade negotiations begin between the United States and South Korea, U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, today offered a stiff reminder to the United States Trade Representative (USTR) that a successful trade pact with South Korea must include significant market access for the U.S. automotive sector. Despite a letter to the Administration from several Members of Congress on the heels of the second round of negotiations, the Administration has refused to make clear that the most basic issue is eradicating South Korea?s trade barriers.   9/5/2006

LEVIN HAILS TRASH AGREEMENT WITH CANADA NEGOTIATED BY STABENOW AND LEVIN U.S Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) today applauded the efforts of Senators Debbie Stabenow and Carl Levin (D-MI) to broker an agreement with the Canadian government to deal with the long-standing problem of shipments of municipal solid waste from Canada into Michigan. The agreement between Stabenow and Levin with Ontario's Minister of the Environment provides that there will be an immediate 20 percent reduction in shipments of Canadian municipal solid waste in the first year and a complete phase out over a four year schedule.   8/31/2006

LEVIN HOSTS BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR SOCIAL SECURITY To commemorate the 71st anniversary of the Social Security system, U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak), Ranking Democrat on the House Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee, hosted a birthday party for Social Security today at the St. Clair Shores Senior Center.  8/14/2006

HOUSE POLITICS: MINIMUM WAGE BILL POISONED House Republicans today chose to play politics with the wages of American families by failing to bring a stand-alone Minimum Wage bill to the House floor, instead choosing to combine the needed wage increase with a controversial repeal of the estate tax. U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak), speaking in opposition to the poisonous measure, blasted Congressional Republicans on the House Floor for holding hostage a vote on raising the federal minimum wage by attaching it to a measure that would benefit very few at the expense of the needs of many working families.  7/28/2006

CONGRESSIONAL REPUBLICANS MOVE TO END PROGRAM AIMED AT ASSISTING EVACUEES Congressional Republicans yesterday introduced and passed a bill that would temporarily increase funding for the Repatriation Program to cover the current cost of assisting thousands of U.S. Citizens being evacuated from Lebanon, but then would terminate the Repatriation Program in 2007. The Bush Administration has notified Congress that the program will shortly run out of funds and will no longer be able to assist citizens returning to the U.S.  U.S. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee, together with U.S. Reps. Jim McDermott of Washington and Ben Cardin of Maryland, had introduced alternative legislation that would raise the cap on funding for this year's emergency without preventing it from helping people evacuated in the future. Levin slammed Congressional Republicans for their "upside-down" priorities at a time when Americans need their assistance.  7/26/2006

U.S. REP. SANDER LEVIN RESPONDS TO PRESIDENT'S FIRST VETO OF STEM CELL ACT Using his power of the veto for the first time since taking office, President Bush today vetoed the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act, H.R. 810 - a bill that has passed both the House and Senate with broad bipartisan support. In reaction to the President's actions, the House of Representatives immediately exercised their constitutional right to take up of the bill with the goal of overriding the President's veto. U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak), who supported the measure originally, cast his vote to override the veto, which failed to get the two-thirds vote needed to override a presidential veto.  The House vote was 235 to 193.   7/19/2006

GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES HIGHER ED COMMISSION AND ESTABLISHMENT OF INDEPENDENT STUDY As a result of Governor Jennifer M. Granholm's announcement of the creation of a Commission on Higher Education and Economic Growth in Macomb County, and the establishment of an independent, professional, privately-funded study of the County's higher education needs, U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) sent the following letter to supporters of a 4-year University in Macomb County today.  7/18/2006

NEW NATIONAL REPORT CONFIRMS PROBLEMS REMAIN WITH RX DRUG PROGRAM Nearly two months after President Bush and House Republican leaders refused to extend the deadline to enroll in a Medicare drug plan this year, U.S. Rep. Sander Levin, a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee, highlighted a new Government Accountability Office (GAO) Report released today that found that call centers run by private Medicare drug plans provided inaccurate and incomplete information most of the time. GAO determined that the private plans responsible for running the new Medicare drug benefit "did not consistently provide callers with accurate and complete information."  7/10/2006

GAO INVESTIGATION UNCOVERS PROBLEMS WITH EPA'S SPILL PREVENTION EFFORTS IN THE ST. CLAIR - DETROIT RIVER CORRIDOR Senators Carl Levin (D-MI) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Representative Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) announced the results of a new study by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) that identified a number of serious concerns about the accuracy of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) data concerning oil and chemical spills in the St. Clair River/Lake St. Clair/Detroit River corridor as well as deficiencies in the EPA's procedures to prevent and respond to spills.   7/7/2006

U.S. -SOUTH KOREA FTA TEST OF BUSH ADMINISTRATION'S WILLINGNESS TO FIGHT FOR U.S. AUTO INDUSTRY As the United States' trade delegation prepares to depart for the second round of negotiations of the U.S. - South Korea free trade agreement in Seoul, Michigan Representatives Dale Kildee (D-Flint), Fred Upton (R-St. Joseph) and Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak), led the effort to open the Korean automotive market to American-made autos in ongoing trade negotiations between the two countries.  The three U.S. Representatives organized a bipartisan group of 38 members of the House of Representatives in writing the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), Susan Schwab, urging her to meaningfully address persistent unfair trade practices by South Korea that have discriminated against the U.S. automotive sector.  7/7/2006

THE DEMOCRATIC PLAN: A REAL PRESCRIPTION DRUG PLAN FOR SENIORS U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee, today joined his Democratic colleagues in endorsing the Democratic Prescription for Change - the Democrats' plan to improve the flawed Prescription drug plan. The Democratic plan will make key improvements to the program so that beneficiaries get an affordable, simple, and reliable prescription drug benefit they earned by paying into Medicare while they were working. It would also allow millions of seniors who were unable to choose a plan by the May 15