December, 2005 Newsletter
The Best of the Season
Washington,
Dec 21, 2005 -
Let me take this opportunity to extend my best wishes to everyone during this Holiday Season. It is a privilege to send a Merry Christmas greeting to each of you.
I am proud to have co-sponsored House Resolution 579 calling for the protection of the symbols and traditions of Christmas. I felt compelled to support this resolution because of the growing intolerance for those who choose to celebrate Christmas. The desire to observe this holiday is not intended to offend anyone; rather it is intended as a celebration.
This past week was certainly a busy time for Congress. Among the legislation approved by the House, I would like to make special note of the Deficit Reduction Act, the Border Protection, Antiterrorism and Illegal Immigration Control Act, and the Defense Appropriation and Authorization.
The Deficit Reduction Act reduces the deficit by more than $39 billion, the first such action since 1997, and achieves real budget savings to keep our government on sound financial footing. It includes protection for workers’ pensions, strengthens and simplifies student loan programs, increases heating assistance for low-income Americans, and expands welfare reform.
The Border Protection Bill cracks down on alien gang members and increases penalties for aliens re-entering illegally. It calls for a joint strategic plan to provide the Border Patrol with military support and increased use of DoD surveillance. It also approves the security fence along our southern border and requires mandatory detention for all illegal immigrants apprehended at the borders by October 1, 2006.
The Defense Appropriation and Authorization included approval for safe energy production in the Artic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). This development will take place on just 2000 of ANWR’s 1.5 million acres, under the strongest environmental safeguards in the world. It also includes $29 billion in assistance for hurricane-damaged areas, and $3.8 billion for avian flu preparedness programs. Most importantly, it provides much needed troop support and equipment for all branches of service.
As we gather with friends and family over the holidays, let us take time to remember those brave men and women who are far from home in defense of our freedom. Send a package, a card, or an e-mail. Let their families know how much we appreciate their service and their sacrifice.
It is worth mentioning again that the new Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage will be available effective January 1, 2006. Sign-up started on November 15, 2005. For more information, contact the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) at 1-800-MEDICARE. You may also contact either of my District Offices for information about this program. My toll-free number is 1-888-868-0737.
We have received many calls and e-mails about our annual calendar mailing. I want to assure you that I will be mailing the calendars in the next few weeks. If you don’t receive one, contact any of my offices, and we will get one out to you.
I want to thank you for the honor of serving as your representative in Washington. I am interested in hearing from you. Please refer to my web site for the best way to contact me. The address is www.brown.house.gov