WASHINGTON, DC–December 11, 2007 – U.S. Rep Ron Lewis (KY-02) will advance from ninth to sixth in Republican seniority on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee following the announced retirements of three senior colleagues currently serving on the panel. Lewis’ elevated rank all but assures him the top Republican position on one of six subcommittees in the next Congress.

 

The Ways and Means Committee maintains jurisdiction over Social Security, Medicare and other entitlement related legislation and plays a key role in charting the nation’s economic vitality through its control of international trade and personal and corporate tax policies. Lewis has become a key Member of the elite committee, gaining considerable seniority since his appointment in 2000. He currently serves on the Trade and Social Security Subcommittees.

 

“I look forward to continuing my work on the committee,” said Lewis. “I will continue to fight to preserve Social Security, promote affordable health care, open new markets for American goods and agricultural commodities, and reduce tax burdens on families, farmers and small business owners.”

 

The Ways and Means Committee has produced many far-ranging legislative accomplishments in recent years including comprehensive welfare reform, two tax reduction bills, the tobacco buyout, and the Medicare prescription drug benefit.

 

Lewis’ increasing seniority has allowed him to effectively steer legislation to address varied regional concerns including measures toprotect Social Security benefits for Kentucky firefighters, correct tax inequities affecting long-term mortgage market issues, encourage local alternative fuel production and use, ensure foster care payments to families are not unfairly taxed, and expand the use of medical adult daycare facilities.

 

Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Jim McCrery (R-LA) announced Friday his intention to retire at the end of the 110^th Congress. Two other members, U.S. Rep. Jim Ramstad (R-MN) and U.S. Rep. Jerry Weller (R-IL), have also announced they will be leaving congress at the end of the 2008 session.

 

 

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