Congressman Sander Levin

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Chairman Levin Statement on U.S. & South Korea Free Trade Agreement 12/3/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement today in response to the announcement of an agreement on critical changes to the pending trade agreement between the U.S. and South Korea: ... view more

Levin Statement on November Jobs Report 12/3/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) made the following statement today following the Department of Labor release of the November jobs report. ... view more

Chairman Levin Statement on the Fiscal Commission 12/3/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement today after the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform failed to adopt a set of policy proposals drafted by its leaders: ... view more

House Votes to Make Child Nutrition Programs Healthier and more Accessible 12/2/2010
The House of Representatives passed the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 today, sending the bill to the White House where it is expected to be signed into law soon.  The legislation dramatically improves children’s access to nutritious meals, implements new school food safety guidelines and, for the first time, establishes nutrition standards for all food sold on school grounds. ... view more

House Passes Middle Class Tax Relief Package 12/2/2010
The House of Representatives took a critical step toward providing tax relief and economic certainty to middle-income families today by passing the Middle Class Tax Relief Act of 2010.  Provisions included in the legislation would extend expiring tax relief targeted to middle-income families. ... view more

Chairman Levin Introduces Middle Class Tax Relief Package 12/1/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) today introduced H.R. 6467, the Middle Class Tax Relief Act of 2010.  Provisions in H.R. 6467 would extend critical, expiring tax relief targeted to middle-class families.  The House of Representatives is expected to vote on the provisions as early as tomorrow. ... view more

Lawmakers call on IRS to allow deductibility and flex spending for breastfeeding equipment and supplies 11/24/2010
Representatives Sander Levin (D-MI), Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) and Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Tom Harkin (D-IA) today sent letters to Commissioner Douglas Shulman of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) urging him to reverse a ruling that denies equipment used to help women breast feed as a health care expense-- excluding them from coverage under flexible health spending accounts and making them non-deductible on tax returns. ... view more

New Consumer Protection Will Help Families Get More For Their Health Insurance Premiums 11/22/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) and Subcommittee on Health Chairman Pete Stark (D-CA), today praised the implementation of the "medical loss ratio" consumer protection in the health reform law.  This provision calls for health insurers to spend at least 80 cents of every premium dollar on medical care.  Those insurers that spend less on medical care will be required to issue rebates to policyholders. ... view more

Republicans Desert Millions of Unemployed Americans Before the Holidays 11/18/2010
House Republicans today blocked passage of legislation that would help millions of unemployed workers make ends meet this holiday season.  H.R. 6419, the Emergency Unemployment Compensation Continuation Act would extend Federal unemployment insurance (UI) programs for three months preventing approximately two million unemployed workers from losing their benefits by the end of the year. ... view more

Levin, McDermott Introduce Bill to Extend Unemployment Benefits 11/17/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) and Income Security and Family Support Subcommittee Chairman Jim McDermott (D-WA) today introduced the Emergency Unemployment Compensation Continuation Act. The legislation would extend Federal unemployment insurance (UI) programs for three months (through February 28, 2011) preventing approximately two million unemployed workers from losing their benefits by the end of the year and over another two million by the end of February. ... view more

Chairman Levin and Ranking Member Camp Joint Statement on U.S. - South Korea FTA Negotiations 11/11/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) and Ranking Member Dave Camp (R-MI) issued the following joint statement on trade negotiations between the U.S. and South Korea: ... view more

Levin Statement on Investigation into Unfair Chinese Trade Practices in the Green Technology Sector 10/15/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) released the following statement today following the announcement by U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk that the U.S. will launch a Section 301 investigation into China’s unfair trade practices in the green technology sector: ... view more

House Passes Landmark China Currency Bill 9/30/2010
Today the House of Representatives passed critical legislation to address China’s fundamental undervaluation of its currency by a vote of 348-79.  The legislation, H.R. 2378, the Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act, is the first of its kind to pass the House of Representatives and signals a mounting concern among U.S. lawmakers regarding China’s violation of its international obligations. ... view more

U.S. Representatives Seek Trade Enforcement Action and Resources to Address China's Unfair Trade Practices in the Green Technology Sector 9/28/2010
Today 181 Members of the House of Representatives sent a letter to President Barack Obama urging the President to address China’s unfair trade practices that benefit its green technology manufacturers to the detriment of their America competitors. ... view more

EPA Agrees to Add Ten Mile Drain to Superfund National Priorities List 9/27/2010
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced today that it will formally add the Ten Mile Drain site in St. Clair Shores to the Superfund National Priorities List (NPL).  Listing on the NPL triggers a comprehensive site investigation to track down the source of the PCB contamination and provides access to federal cleanup funding. ... view more

Ways and Means Passes China Currency Bill 9/24/2010
Today the House Committee on Ways and Means approved critical legislation to address China’s fundamental undervaluation of its currency.  The Committee adopted an Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to H.R. 2378, the Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act, offered by Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI), who led the body in pressing for passage of this bill to hold China accountable and enforce the rules of international trade. ... view more

Chairman Levin's Opening Remarks at Markup of China Currency Legislation 9/24/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following opening statement upon consideration of a Chairman’s Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to H.R. 2378, legislation to address China’s fundamental undervaluation of its currency (as prepared for delivery): ... view more

House Approves Tax Relief and Enhanced Lending for Small Businesses 9/23/2010
Today the House of Representatives approved H.R. 5297, the Small Business Lending Fund Act of 2010, by a vote of 237-187.  The legislation would provide much-needed tax relief and enhanced lending opportunities for small businesses to help them grow and create new jobs.  With passage by the House, H.R. 5297 will now proceed to President Obama’s desk for signature into law. ... view more

Chairmen Levin and Stark Laud Patient's Bill of Rights That Takes Effect Today 9/23/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) and Health Subcommittee Chairman Pete Stark (D-CA), today celebrated the six-month anniversary of the health reform bill being signed into law.  Today, a number of important consumer provisions – a "Patient’s Bill of Rights" – go into effect. ... view more

Ways and Means to Consider Amended China Currency Bill 9/22/2010
(Washington D.C.)- Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement today in conjunction with an announcement that the Committee will meet at 9:30 AM on Friday, September 24, 2010 to consider a Chairman’s Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to H.R. 2378, legislation to address China’s fundamental undervaluation of its currency: ... view more

Medicare Advantage Working Better for Seniors 9/21/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement today in conjunction with an announcement that the Committee will meet at 9:30 AM on Friday, September 24, 2010 to consider a Chairman’s Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to H.R. 2378, legislation to address China’s fundamental undervaluation of its currency: ... view more

Chairman Levin Opening Statement at Hearing on China’s Exchange Rate Policy 9/15/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following opening statement at today’s full Committee hearing on China’s exchange rate policy: ... view more

Chairman Levin Statement on Department of Commerce Announcement on CVD Cases 8/31/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement today following an announcement by the Department of Commerce regarding countervailing duty petitions filed by U.S. companies and workers: ... view more

Oakland County Drug-Free Coalitions Win Grants 8/31/2010
The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy announced today that the Madison Heights Community Family Coalition and the Southeast Oakland Coalition are both the recipients of $125,000 Drug Free Community (DFC) grants for their efforts to facilitate active citizen participation in local drug prevention efforts.  ... view more

First Round of Employers Approved to Join Early Retiree Reinsurance Program 8/31/2010
{Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI) and Ways and Means Health Subcommittee Chairman Pete Stark (D-CA), praised today's announcement that nearly 2,000 employers have already signed up and been approved for the Early Retiree Reinsurance Program in the health reform law. ... view more

Royal Oak Township Library to Gain New Computing Stations 8/18/2010
(Washington D.C.)- The Department of Commerce announced today that Michigan State University will be awarded $6,056,819 to upgrade and establish public computer centers throughout south and central Michigan at colleges, local libraries, and other public locations.  Royal Oak Township Library will receive eight new broadband computer work stations as part of the Recovery Act grant, awarded through the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program. ... view more

Levin Says Flawed U.S. - Korea Free Trade Agreement Requires Changes and Concrete Results for U.S. Automakers 8/18/2010
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement regarding South Korean Ambassador Han’s visit to Detroit and the U.S.-South Korean Free Trade Agreement. ... view more

Chairman Levin Statement on the 75th Anniversary of Social Security 8/13/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement today to mark the 75th anniversary of the enactment of the Social Security Act, which is tomorrow, August 14: ... view more

Chairman Levin Statement on the Passing of Former-Chairman Dan Rostenkowski 8/11/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement today upon the passing of former Chairman Dan Rostenkowski (D-IL) at the age of 82: ... view more

Chairman Levin Statement on U.S. Manufacturing Enhancement Act of 2010 Becoming Law 8/11/2010
Today President Obama signed H.R. 4380, the U.S. Manufacturing Enhancement Act of 2010 into law.  Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement:  ... view more

House Approves Legislation to Save and Create Hundreds of Thousands of American Jobs 8/10/2010
By a vote of 247 to 161 the House of Representatives today passed H.R. 1586, the Education Jobs and Medicaid Assistance Act, to save or create hundreds of thousands of American jobs.  Not only does H.R. 1586 prevent layoffs and provide funds to hire teachers and prevent law enforcement officers from losing their jobs, the bill is paid for by closing tax loopholes that encourage companies to ship American jobs overseas and other provisions which, have a net effect of reducing the Federal deficit by $1.4 billion dollars according to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). ... view more

Chairman Levin Statement on Medicare and Social Security Trustees Reports 8/5/2010
{Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement upon release of the annual reports from the Trustees of the Social Security and Medicare Trust Funds: ... view more

House Takes Action on Offshore Drilling 7/30/2010
The House of Representatives approved sweeping legislation today to hold oil companies responsible for spills and reforming federal oversight of oil drilling.  The Consolidated Land, Energy, and Aquatic Resources (CLEAR) Act passed by a vote of  209 to 193 . ... view more

Levin: "Auto Investment is Paying Off" 7/30/2010
Congressman Sander Levin welcomed news today that Chrysler Group LLC will keep open the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant (SHAP) and add a second shift of production.  The announcement came during a visit to Chrysler and GM assembly plants by President Obama. ... view more

Obama Administration Strengthens Enforcement of Trade Agreements 7/30/2010
House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) and Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman John S. Tanner (D-TN) issued the following statement concerning today’s announcement by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) that the United States is initiating consultations with Guatemala under the CAFTA-DR Labor Chapter to address concerns about Guatemala’s failure to enforce its labor laws: ... view more

House Approves 'Make it in America' Agenda 7/28/2010
The House of Representatives voted today in support of Democrats' “Make it in America” strategy by passing three bills that help rebuild the American manufacturing base with an emphasis on competitiveness, innovation, and exports and the creation of high-skill, high-wage jobs. ... view more

Chairman Levin Introduces the Investing in American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act of 2010 7/28/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) today introduced H.R. 5893, the Investing in American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act of 2010.  By closing loopholes that encourage companies to ship jobs overseas, the legislation would spur job creation here in the U.S. by extending successful Recovery Act provisions including the Build America Bonds program to fund domestic infrastructure improvements and the Emergency Fund for Job Creation and Assistance program to help States immediately support job programs.  ... view more

Chairman Levin's Remarks at Event Commemorating Social Security's 75th Anniversary 7/28/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) joined House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, members of the House Democratic Leadership, and House Democrats at a press event this morning on the Steps of the Capitol to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Social Security Act, which President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed into law on August 14, 1935.  Below are Chairman Levin’s remarks during the event: ... view more

Chairman Levin Releases Draft of Domestic Manufacturing and Energy Jobs Act of 2010 7/27/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI) today released draft legislative text of the Domestic Manufacturing and Energy Jobs Act of 2010. The draft legislation would make a significant investment in domestic manufacturing to create jobs and see to it that the clean energy technologies of the future are made here in the United States.  The bill would also provide long-term certainty that the United States will continue to support renewable energy and energy efficiency, and will encourage manufacturers to build facilities in the United States. ... view more

House Stands Up for Unemployed Americans, Approves Benefit Extension 7/22/2010
The House of Representatives today passed H.R. 4213, the Unemployment Compensation Extension Act, by a vote of 272 to 152.  This critical legislation retroactively restores and extends the Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) and Extended Benefits programs through November 30, 2010. For six weeks, Republicans in the Senate have blocked this bill, preventing over 2.5 million unemployed Americans from receiving the benefits that they deserve.  ... view more

Levin Statement on Unemployment Insurance 7/22/2010
Congressman Sander Levin, Chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means, delivered the following remarks in favor of extending unemployment insurance earlier today.  Video of the remarks is available here.  The House of Representatives is expected to vote on the legislation this afternoon. ... view more

Levin Lauds Senate Vote to Override GOP Filibuster of Legislation to Extend Unemployment Insurance Benefits 7/21/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement today after the Senate voted to overcome the GOP filibuster and move to a vote on legislation that would extend Federal unemployment insurance (UI) programs.  The House of Representatives sent similar legislation to the Senate on May 28, 2010 and again on July 1, 2010 in an attempt to overcome obstruction by Senate Republicans that left millions of Americans without their unemployment benefits.  Following Senate passage, the House will take up the legislation as early as tomorrow. ... view more

House Votes to Strengthen U.S. Manufacturing Jobs 7/21/2010
(Washington D.C.)- The House of Representatives voted today in strong support of U.S. manufacturers and American workers by passing H.R. 4380, the U.S. Manufacturing Enhancement Act of 2010.  The legislation contains hundreds of tariff suspensions and reductions which would help American companies grow and support further job creation.  Despite opposition by the Republican House leadership, the measure passed easily by a vote of 378-43. ... view more

House to Vote on Bill Supporting U.S. Manufacturing Jobs 7/20/2010
The U.S. House of Representatives is scheduled to consider important legislation to support thousands of U.S. manufacturing jobs this week.  H.R. 4380, the U.S. Manufacturing Enhancement Act of 2010, contains hundreds of tariff suspensions and reductions that will help American companies manufacture and sell goods to continue growing and supporting American jobs.   The bill is scheduled to be considered by the Full House as early as tomorrow. ... view more

Chairman Levin to Release Draft Legislative Text of Green Energy Jobs Bill 7/19/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin issued the following statement today following a meeting of Committee Democrats to discuss upcoming legislation to create new, green jobs and encourage the production and use of renewable energy technology and conservation: ... view more

House Democrats and Unemployed Workers Rally Behind Unemployment Benefit Exension 7/14/2010
Today, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI) and Income Security and Family Support Subcommittee Chairman Jim McDermott (D-WA) joined fellow Committee and House Members at an event to urge Senate Republicans to end their filibuster and help pass H.R. 5618, the Restoration of Emergency Unemployment Compensation Act. Joining the Members were unemployed workers Barbara Banaszewski and Louise Long who highlighted the real-life emergency facing millions of American families who rely on unemployment benefits to make ends meet. ... view more

Chairmen Levin, Stark on Implementation of Incentives for Health IT Use 7/13/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI) and Health Subcommittee Chairman Pete Stark (D-CA) today commented on the release of rules by the Administration clarifying incentives for adoption of health IT systems by health care providers.  These incentives were part of H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act: ... view more

Macomb County to Receive $660,000 for Emergency Food and Shelter Assistance 7/2/2010
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced that Macomb County will receive $660,795 from the Emergency Food and Shelter Program.  A local board, chaired by the United Way for Southeast Michigan, will now accept grant applications and divide the funding between social service organizations in Macomb County to supplement and expand ongoing efforts to provide shelter, food and support services. ... view more

House Passes Extension of Unemployment Benefits for Millions of Americans 7/1/2010
The House of Representatives today passed H.R. 5618, the Restoration of Emergency Unemployment Compensation Act, critical legislation to extend unemployment insurance benefits to millions of American workers through the end of November 2010.  Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI), a sponsor of the bill, gave the following remarks on the House Floor today in support of the legislation:  ... view more

House Approves Landmark Wall Street Reform 6/30/2010
The House of Representatives passed today a comprehensive set of measures to put in place an orderly resolution process for failing financial institutions and create a consumer financial protection bureau.  The package of reforms addresses the myriad causes – from predatory lending to unregulated financial trading – that led to the 2008 financial crisis.  The Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act passed by a vote of 237 to 192. ... view more

Republican Leader Boehner Proposes to Undermine Social Security Benefits 6/29/2010
Today, the Pittsburgh Tribune reported that Republican Leader John Boehner (R-OH) suggested Social Security should be cut, and its benefits should be means-tested, in order to pay for the war in Afghanistan.  Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI) and Social Security Subcommittee Chairman Earl Pomeroy (D-ND) issued the following statements in response: ... view more

Employers, Unions, Local Govt May Begin Receiving Assistance to Cover Early Retirees 6/29/2010
House Ways and Means Chairman Sander Levin welcomed news today that employers, unions, and state and local governments that offer health coverage to early retirees can now apply for help with those costs.  ... view more

House Votes to Extend Deadline for Homebuyer's Tax Credit 6/29/2010
The House of Representatives today voted to extend the closing deadline for taxpayers seeking the homebuyer’s tax credit.  H.R. 5623, the Homebuyers Assistance and Improvement Act of 2010 would extend the current deadline from June 30 to September 30, 2010, enabling an estimated 180,000 additional homebuyers to utilize the credit.  Taxpayers must have entered into a written, binding contract prior to May 1st to claim the credit.  The legislation also includes an important provision to crack down on reported instances of fraud identified in a recent report by the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. ... view more

House Republicans Deny Unemployment Benefits to Millions of Americans 6/29/2010
Today, House Republicans voted down a critical extension of unemployment insurance that would benefit millions of American families, including the estimated 1.7 million Americans whose benefits have expired, or will expire by the end of this week. ... view more

"Extending Unemployment Benefits is an Emergency for the Community of the United States of America" 6/29/2010
(Washington D.C.)- Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) made the following statement on the House Floor today in support of H.R. 5618, the Restoration of Emergency Unemployment Compensation Act.  The legislation, introduced by Chairman Levin and Income Security and Family Support Subcommittee Chairman Jim McDermott (D-WA) would extend unemployment insurance (UI) benefits through November. ... view more

Levin, McDermott Introduce Bill to Extend Unemployment Benefits 6/29/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) and Income Security and Family Support Subcommittee Chairman Jim McDermott (D-WA) today introduced H.R. 5618, the Restoration of Emergency Unemployment Compensation Act, to extend unemployment insurance (UI) benefits to millions of American families.  The bill follows Senate Republicans’ obstruction of legislation that would have not only promoted job creation here in the U.S. but extended critical unemployment insurance benefits to help Americans make ends meet as they look for their next job opportunity. ... view more

Michigan Awarded $3.7 Million for On-The-Job Training 6/25/2010
The United States Department of Labor announced today that Michigan is the recipient of a $3.7 million Recovery Act grant which will allow Michigan Works! offices to support training partnerships with employers to fill specific job needs. ... view more

$20 Million for Clean Energy Manufacturing Announced 6/25/2010
Congressman Sander Levin welcomed the announcement today by Governor Granholm that the State of Michigan will use $20 million in Recovery Act funds to provide Clean Energy Advance Manufacturing awards to nine Michigan companies to help create jobs, diversify our state’s manufacturing base, and produce the next generation of renewable energy systems and components. ... view more

Congressional Staff Office Hours – Week of June 28 6/25/2010
To help residents of the 12th Congressional District access the services provided by his District Office, Congressman Levin's staff will be available to help constituents at the locations listed below after normal business hours.  ... view more

Senate Republicans Kill Job-Creating Tax Cuts, Critical Benefits for Millions of Unemployed Workers 6/24/2010
Today the Republican minority in the United States Senate filibustered and prevented the body from debating critical provisions to create jobs, cut taxes and provide vital assistance to millions of unemployed workers. ... view more

House Votes for Transparency in Election Spending 6/24/2010
The House of Representatives voted today to strengthen elections and provide more information to voters about political spending done by corporations, unions, and third party advocacy organizations.  The legislation also prohibits election-related spending by foreign-owned corporations and government contractors.  The Democracy is Strengthened by Casting Light on Spending in Elections (DISCLOSE) Act passed by a vote of 219 to 206. ... view more

Health Reform Protects Patient Rights, Holds Insurance Companies Accountable 6/22/2010
Today President Obama announced the enactment of new consumer protections included in the Affordable Care Act, adding to the growing list of implementation accomplishments since the bill was signed into law 90 days ago. The new regulations will eliminate discriminatory practices that for years have prevented Americans from receiving the care they deserve. ... view more

Ways and Means Chairs Applaud Rule to Protect Social Security Beneficiaries From Unlawful Debt Collection Practices 6/21/2010
On Friday, leaders of the Committee on Ways and Means sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner expressing support for a proposed regulation to protect Social Security beneficiaries from unlawful debt collection practices such as garnishment and levy.  ... view more

Congressional Staff Office Hours Week of June 21 6/18/2010
To help residents of the 12th Congressional District access the services provided by his District Office, Congressman Levin's staff will be available to help constituents at the locations listed below after normal business hours.  ... view more

House Approves Lending Tools to Bolster Small Businesses 6/17/2010
The House of Representatives passed legislation today to speed loans to small businesses through community bank lending and state collateral support programs.  The Small Business Jobs and Credit Act [H.R. 5297] passed by a vote of 241 to 182. ... view more

Chairman Levin's Opening Statement at Hearing on China's Trade Policies 6/16/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following opening statement at today’s full Committee hearing on China’s Trade and Industrial Policies: ... view more

House Approves Tax Relief for Small Businesses 6/15/2010
Today the House of Representatives approved H.R. 5486, the Small Business Jobs Tax Relief Act of 2010, by a bipartisan majority of 247-170.  The legislation would provide much-needed tax cuts for small businesses to help them grow and create new jobs.  H.R. 5486 is companion legislation to H.R. 5297, the Small Business Jobs and Credit Act, which will enhance lending opportunities for small businesses.  Both pieces of legislation are fully offset by closing existing tax loopholes and will not add to the deficit. ... view more

Congressional Staff Office Hours 6/11/2010
To help residents of the 12th Congressional District access the services provided by his District Office, Congressman Levin's staff will be available to help constituents at the locations listed below after normal business hours.  ... view more

Millions of Seniors to Receive Help Paying for Prescription Drugs 6/10/2010
Today, seniors will begin receiving financial relief to help pay for the cost of prescription drugs as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) delivers the first round of $250 rebate checks to those who fall within the Medicare prescription “donut hole.”   These checks are shipping out to seniors three weeks earlier than originally planned.  Additional checks will be sent out each month, with an estimated 4 million seniors benefiting from the rebate checks this year. ... view more

House Passes Bill to Create American Jobs, Cut Taxes, and Close Loopholes that Encourage Companies to Invest Overseas 5/28/2010
Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 4213, the American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act, legislation that would provide vital tax cuts and support for American workers while also investing in American jobs through tax relief for businesses and investments in infrastructure.  ... view more

Two Million Michiganders Have a Pre-Existing Health Condition 5/28/2010
Congressman Sander Levin commented today on a study released by Families USA showing that approximately 2,056,000 Michigan residents have a pre-existing health condition that, absent reform, could lead to a denial of insurance by a health insurance company or higher premiums. ... view more

Saluting our Veterans on Memorial Day 5/28/2010
As we take the time this Memorial Day to remember the sacrifice and courage of the men and women who have fought for our country, I wanted to take a moment to share with you the recent efforts Congress has made to ensure that those who serve receive the benefits and compensation they deserve.  ... view more

Michigan and the American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act 5/24/2010
Last week Congressman Levin and Senator Max Baucus introduced the American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act which includes several provisions that are important to the State of Michigan, Michigan businesses and Michigan families.  ... view more

Levin, Baucus To Release Joint Legislation to Create Jobs, Extend Tax Cuts for Families and Businesses, Support Americans Looking for Work 5/20/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI) and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D�]MT) will today release legislative text of the American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act, legislation to provide critical tax cuts and support for American workers through the end of this year.  Provisions included in the legislation would:   Provide tax relief to businesses and State and local governments to help them invest and create jobs; Provide important tax cuts to put money back in the pockets of working families; Help restore the flow of credit to enable small businesses to expand and hire new workers by extending small business loan programs; Expand career training programs for Americans who are looking for work; Extend eligibility for unemployment insurance benefits, COBRA health care tax credits and other critical programs that families and communities depend on through December 31, 2010; Ensure that seniors, military service members and Americans with disabilities continue to have access to doctors they know and trust; and Close tax loopholes for wealthy investment fund managers and foreign operations of multi-national companies. ... view more

Implementation of Health Reform Helps Small Businesses Provide Health Care 5/17/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) and Ways and Means Health Subcommittee Chairman Pete Stark (D-CA), today commented on the Obama Administration's implementation of the small business tax provision in health care reform. The Administration today issued new guidance making it easier for small businesses to determine their eligibility for tax credits while ensuring that they will not receive lower credits because of state credits and subsidies that may be available. ... view more

Student Art on Display at Warren City Hall 5/17/2010
Representative Sander Levin recognized today the artistic talents of local high school students who entered the 29th Annual Congressional Art Competition.  Entries are on display until Sunday at Warren City Hall. ... view more

Michigan Reps. Introduce Bill To Promote Small Business Growth 5/14/2010
U.S. Representatives Gary Peters, Sander Levin and John Dingell have introduced legislation to help promote small business lending and create jobs.  The legislation, the State Small Business Credit Initiative Act (H.R. 5302), will promote state-based partnerships with financial institutions to help small businesses and especially smaller manufacturers access the credit they need to innovate and grow.  The three representatives originally introduced similar legislation in February and have been working with the Administration on how best to address specific issues that have kept too many businesses from accessing credit.  ... view more

Ferndale, Mount Clemens to Receive Firefighter Grants 5/12/2010
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today that the Ferndale Fire Department and Mount Clemens Fire Department will be the recipients of firefighter assistance grants.  Congressman Levin wrote letters to DHS in support of both grant applications. ... view more

Levin Statement on Job Creation in April 5/7/2010
Today, the Bureau of Labor Statistics issued its monthly employment report finding that in the month of April, the economy created 290,000 jobs, including 231,000 in the private sector, for the largest number of new jobs in four years.  Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI), issued the following statement: ... view more

House Approves Incentives for Home Energy Renovations 5/6/2010
The House of Representatives approved legislation to provide rebates and loans for home energy efficiency improvements.  The Home Star Energy Retrofit Act passed by a bipartisan vote of 246 to 161.  The legislation must now be considered by the US Senate. ... view more

Warren, Ferndale to Receive Firefighter Grants 5/5/2010
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today that the Warren Fire Department and Ferndale Fire Department will be the recipients of firefighter assistance grants.  Congressman Levin wrote letters to DHS in support of both grant applications. ... view more

House Passes Bipartisan Legislation to Speed Haiti's Earthquake Recovery 5/5/2010
(Washington D.C.)- The House of Representatives today passed bipartisan legislation to help speed Haiti’s economic recovery following the devastating January earthquake that shattered the country’s economy.  H.R. 5160, The Haiti Economic Lift Program (HELP) Act expands duty-free access to the U.S. market for additional Haitian textile and apparel exports and extends existing trade preference programs for Haiti through 2020.  The legislation now heads to the U.S. Senate where it is expected to receive strong bipartisan support as well. ... view more

Early Retirees to Receive Financial Relief for Quality, Affordable Health Insurance 5/4/2010
President Obama today announced that his Administration will begin implementing an important program from the Affordable Care Act that will provide significant relief to American businesses and quality, affordable health care for their early retirees.  Starting this year, the Early Retiree Reinsurance Program will provide $5 billion in financial assistance to employers so that early retirees, age 55 and older, and their families maintain health coverage. ... view more

Chairman Levin, Stark Statements on Health Insurance Industry's Compliance with Rescission Request 4/28/2010
Yesterday, House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) and Health Subcommittee Chairman Pete Stark (D-CA) joined colleagues on the House Energy and Commerce and Education and Labor Committees in a letter to insurance companies, asking them to end the practice of rescission – canceling an individual's coverage once he or she becomes sick – except in cases of fraud or intentional misrepresentation.  The letter also asked that insurers have an independent third party review all proposed policy cancellations. Click here to view a copy of the letter from leading House Democrats: http://go.usa.gov/iPx ... view more

Rangel, Levin, Camp, Baucus, Grassley Introduce Bill to Speed Haiti's Earthquake Recovery 4/28/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D�]MT), along with Ways and Means Ranking Member Dave Camp (D-MI), Finance Ranking Member Chuck Grassley (R�]IA), and Rep. Charles B. Rangel (D-NY) introduced legislation today to help speed Haiti’s economic recovery following the devastating January earthquake that shattered the country’s economy.  The Haiti Economic Lift Program (HELP) Act, introduced in both the House and Senate today, expands duty-free access to the U.S. market for additional Haitian textile and apparel exports and extends existing trade preference programs for Haiti through 2020. ... view more

Chairmen Levin and Stark Statements on WellPoint's Decision to Implement Rescission Ban before Deadline under Health Reform Law 4/27/2010
– Earlier today Chairman Levin and Health Subcommittee Chairman Stark joined leading colleagues from the House Committees on Energy and Commerce and Education and Labor calling upon health insurance companies to immediately end the practice of rescission – terminating an individual’s coverage once he or she becomes sick – except in cases of fraud or material misrepresentation.  Click here to view a copy of the letter from leading House Democrats. ... view more

House Committee Chairs Ask Insurers to Ban Rescissions Ahead of Health Reform Implementation 4/27/2010
Committee and Subcommittee Chairs from the House Committees on Ways and Means, Energy and Commerce, and Education and Labor today sent a letter to the CEOs of seven insurance companies, most of whom last week announced they were allowing individuals up to age 26 to get coverage through their parents' health insurance, ahead of health reform legislation taking effect. ... view more

Chairmen Levin and Stark Statements on CMS Analysis of Health Insurance Reform 4/23/2010
(Washington D.C.)- Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) and Health Subcommittee Chairman Pete Stark (D-CA) released the following statements today upon release of a report by the Chief Actuary of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS): ... view more

Levin's Website Wins Gold 4/21/2010
(Washington D.C.)- The website of Congressman Sander Levin (www.house.gov/levin) was awarded a Gold Mouse by the Congressional Management Foundation (CMF) today.  Over the past year, CMF analyzed all 620 congressional websites, including those of all Senate and House Members, Congressional Committees, and official leadership sites.   ... view more

Michigan Small Businesses Eligible for Health Care Tax Credits This Year 4/19/2010
The Internal Revenue Service began mailing postcards to 132,082 Michigan small businesses today to alert them to a new tax credit available this year for small businesses that provide their employees with health insurance.  The tax credit was part of the health care reform legislation signed into law last month. ... view more

Charting a Course from Recession to Recovery in an Age of Reform 4/19/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) delivered the following remarks at the National Press Club today as a featured guest in their Newsmaker’s Luncheon series.  Below are Chairman Levin’s remarks as prepared for delivery.  You can also click here to watch his remarks and the question and answer session which followed. ... view more

Extension of Critical Unemployment and Health Benefits Set to Become Law 4/15/2010
The House of Representatives today approved H.R. 4851 the Continuing Extension Act of 2010 by a vote of 289-112.  The legislation extends critical unemployment and health care benefits, ensures that Medicare beneficiaries can continue seeing their doctors and extends other programs which expired.  H.R. 4851 will now be sent to President Obama for his signature into law. ... view more

Chairman Levin Opening Statement at Hearing on Energy Tax Incentives and the Green Job Economy 4/14/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following opening statement at today’s full Committee hearing on Energy Tax Incentives and the Green Job Economy: ... view more

Rep. Levin Statement on Rep. Stupak's Announcement of His Retirement 4/9/2010
Representative Sander Levin issued the following statement regarding the announcement by Representative Bart Stupak that he will not seek re-election this fall. ... view more

Chairman Levin Statement on Jobs Figures 4/2/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement on employment data released today by the Department of Labor showing that 162,000 new jobs were created in March, the largest number of new jobs in three years: ... view more

Chairman Levin Statement on Health and Education Reforms Becoming Law 3/30/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following remarks after attending the ceremony where President Barack Obama signed key health and education reforms into law: ... view more

Chairman Levin: Senate Republicans Should Withdraw Objections to Emergency Extension of Critical Benefits 3/25/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement tonight after Senate Republicans repeatedly blocked attempts to advance emergency legislation to extend critical unemployment and health care benefits, ensure Medicare beneficiaries reliable access to their doctors, and extend other programs set to expire at the end of the month: ... view more

Chairman Levin Statement on Health Reform Improvements Passing House 3/25/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following remarks after the U.S. House of Representatives voted to send critical legislation reforming and improving America’s health insurance system to President Obama’s desk to become law: ... view more

Chairman Levin Opening Remarks on China's Exchange Rate Policy 3/24/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following opening statement at today’s full committee hearing on China’s exchange rate policies: ... view more

House Approves Small Business and Infrastructure Job Creation Bill 3/24/2010
Today the House of Representatives approved H.R. 4849, the Small Business and Infrastructure Jobs Tax Act, by a vote of 246-178.  The legislation would provide much-needed tax relief to small businesses, extend effective financing measures to create jobs and improve cities and towns, and extend the TANF Emergency Fund which is already on track to put over 160,000 Americans back to work. ... view more

House Approves $600 Million for Summer Youth Jobs 3/24/2010
The House of Representatives approved $600 million to put 300,000 youths to work in their communities this summer.  The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Summer Youth Training Program received $2.1 billion in Recovery Act funding last year.  ... view more

Chairman Levin Statement on Health Reform Becoming Law 3/23/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following remarks after attending the ceremony where H.R. 3590, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act was signed into law by President Barack Obama: ... view more

Full Disclosure of Congressional Earmark Requests FY 2011 3/23/2010
For many years, the process of Congressional funding requests - sometimes known as "earmarks" - lacked transparency and accountability. Since assuming the majority in 2007, Congressional Democrats have overhauled the process for requesting project-specific funding requests. ... view more

Historic Health Reform Approved 3/21/2010
For the first time in America’s history, all Americans will have access to quality, affordable health care under a final package of health insurance reforms passed by the U.S. House of Representatives today. The legislation will protect Americans from the worst insurance industry practices, offer the uninsured and small businesses the opportunity to obtain affordable health care plans, cover 32 million uninsured Americans all while reducing the deficit by $143 billion over the next decade and more than a trillion dollars over 20 years. The House approved the measure by a vote of 220 to 211. ... view more

Tri-Committee Chairmen Joint Statement on Introduction of Health Reform Bill to Provide Quality, Affordable Health Care for All Americans 3/18/2010
Today, leaders of the Committees with jurisdiction over health policy, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI), Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Henry A. Waxman (D-CA), and Education and Labor Committee Chairman George Miller (D-CA), issued the following joint statement upon introduction of comprehensive health reform legislation: ... view more

Ways & Means Approves Small Business and Infrastructure Job Creation Bill 3/17/2010
The House Committee on Ways and Means today approved H.R. 4849, the Small Business and Infrastructure Jobs Tax Act, legislation to provide tax relief to small businesses and extend effective financing measures to create jobs and improve America’s cities and towns. ... view more

House Votes to Extend Critical Unemployment, Health Benefits 3/17/2010
The House of Representatives today unanimously approved, H.R. 4851 the Continuing Extension Act of 2010.  The legislation extends critical unemployment and health care benefits, ensures that Medicare beneficiaries can continue seeing their doctors and extends other programs set to expire at the end of March. ... view more

Chairman Levin Introduces the Continuing Extension Act of 2010 3/16/2010
(Washington D.C.)- Today Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) introduced H.R. 4851 the Continuing Extension Act of 2010.  The legislation extends critical unemployment and health care benefits, ensures that Medicare beneficiaries can continue seeing their doctors and extends other programs set to expire at the end of March. ... view more

Chairman Levin's Opening Statement at Markup of H.R. 4849, the Small Business and Infrastructure Jobs Act of 2010 3/17/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI), delivered the following statement today at a Ways and Means markup of H.R. 4849, the Small Business and Infrastructure Jobs Act of 2010: ... view more

Chairman Levin Unveils Small Business and Infrastructure Job Creation Bill 3/15/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) today unveiled a discussion draft of the Small Business and Infrastructure Jobs Tax Act, legislation to provide tax relief to small businesses and extend effective financing measures to create jobs and improve America’s cities and towns. ... view more

This letter was sent in response to residents who wrote to Rep. Levin about abusive credit card practices 3/11/2010
Thank you for contacting me with your concerns about credit card company abuses. Please know that your views are important to me, and I appreciate hearing from you about this issue.  ... view more

EPA to Conduct Further Cleanup of PCBs in St. Clair Shores 3/11/2010
Representative Sander Levin and Senator Carl Levin praised today’s announcement by the Environmental Protection Agency that it will soon return to St. Clair Shores to perform additional PCB cleanup work in the Ten Mile Drain.  Work on the $864,000 project will begin in the very near future. ... view more

House Unanimously Passes Bill Encouraging Charitable Contributions for Chile Relief 3/10/2010
Today the House of Representatives unanimously passed H.R. 4783, bipartisan legislation to allow individuals who make charitable contributions to victims of the earthquake in Chile (prior to April 15, 2010) to claim an itemized charitable deduction on their 2009 tax return instead of having to wait until next year to claim these deductions on their 2010 tax return.  The bill also includes a provision that would extend the ability to claim the charitable deduction for contributions made to assist victims of the earthquake in Haiti to the same date on 2009 tax returns. The bipartisan measure was introduced yesterday by Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) and Ranking Member Dave Camp (R-MI). ... view more

Levin, Camp Introduce Bill Allowing Taxpayers to Claim Charitable Deduction in 2009 for Chile Relief 3/9/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) and Ranking Member Dave Camp (R-MI) today introduced legislation that would allow individuals who make charitable contributions to victims of the earthquake in Chile (prior to April 15, 2010) to claim an itemized charitable deduction on their 2009 tax return instead of having to wait until next year to claim these deductions on their 2010 tax return.  The bill also includes a provision that would extend the ability to claim the charitable deduction for contributions made to assist victims of the earthquake in Haiti to the same date on 2009 tax returns. Please click here to view text of the legislation. ... view more

Chairman Levin Statement on Jobs Figures 3/5/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement on employment data released today by the Department of Labor: ... view more

House Approves the “HIRE” Act 3/4/2010
The U.S. House of Representatives today approved bipartisan legislation to help spur job creation and make immediate infrastructure investments, taking another step toward economic recovery. H.R. 2847, the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act, includes the House amendments to the Senate-passed bill and was approved by a vote of 217-201.  ... view more

Chairman Levin Statement on Ways and Means Committee Agenda 3/4/2010
Acting Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement: ... view more

One Republican Senator Blocks Unemployment Extension 2/26/2010
Thursday evening the House of Representatives passed a 30 day extension for emergency unemployment compensation and COBRA health care assistance on a bipartisan voice vote.  When the extension was to be voted on in the Senate, Senator Bunning objected to having an immediate vote on the issue, thus forcing procedural motions that will delay any vote until next week. ... view more

House Votes to End Anti-Trust Exemption for Health Insurers 2/24/2010
The House of Representatives passed the Health Insurance Fair Competition Act today, legislation that promotes greater competition amongst health care insurance companies by making them subject to the same anti-trust laws governing nearly all other industries.  The legislation passed by a vote of 406 to 19. ... view more

House Members Introduce Proposal to Enhance Credit Access for Manufacturers 2/23/2010
Congressmen Sander Levin, John Dingell, and Gary Peters introduced legislation yesterday evening to help manufacturing firms access the financing they need to expand, diversify, and hire new workers.  Levin, Dingell, and Peters were joined in introducing the legislation by Financial Services Committee Chairman Barney Frank, whose committee will have jurisdiction over the legislation.  Additional original co-sponsors include Reps. Kanjorski, Dennis Moore, Fudge, Kildee, Pascrell, Lipinski, Doyle, Etheridge, Butterfield, Tim Ryan and Schwartz.   ... view more

Michigan Awarded $15 Million for Health Information Technology 2/12/2010
The US Department of Health and Human Services announced today that Michigan is the recipient of a $15 million grant aimed at improving health care quality, cost, efficiency, and patent safety through the electronic exchange of health information.  Congressman Levin previously wrote a letter in support of the grant application. ... view more

Macomb Community College Awarded $5 Million to Train Workers in Defense Industry Jobs 2/12/2010
(Roseville, MI) - The US Department of Labor announced today that Macomb Community College will receive $4,971,642 to train unemployed and dislocated workers for jobs in the defense industry.  The grant builds on a $550,000 award that Rep. Levin secured in this year’s annual appropriations bill for the college’s Center of Expertise in Defense.  The grant is part of $226 million in Recovery Act grants announced today for job training in high growth and emerging industries. ... view more

Center Line, Southfield to Receive Firefighter Grants 2/5/2010
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced this week that the Center Line Public Safety Department and Southfield Fire Department will be the recipients of firefighter assistance grants.  Congressman Levin wrote letters to DHS in support of both grant applications. ... view more

Chairmen Rangel and Levin Welcome National Export Initiative and Comprehensive Strategy to Change U.S. Trade Policy 2/4/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles B. Rangel (D-NY) and Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI) issued the following statements today following U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Locke’s announcement regarding the Administration’s export promotion strategy: ... view more

Chairmen Rangel and Levin Urge Action to Open Japanese Auto Market to U.S. Auto Exports 2/3/2010
Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles B. Rangel (D-NY) and Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) sent the following letter to U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk today urging further action to open up the Japanese Cash for Clunkers program and secure greater access for U.S. auto exports in the Japanese marketplace: ... view more

Local Water Projects to Receive Recovery Funds 2/1/2010
Congressman Sander Levin welcomed the announcement today that the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality had awarded Recovery Act funds to more than two dozen Michigan water infrastructure projects around the state, including several projects in Macomb and Oakland Counties.  ... view more

GDP Growth Should Accelerate Action on Job Creation Proposals 1/29/2010
Rep. Sander Levin, a Member of the Ways and Means Committee, issued the following statement on the need to accelerate action on job creation. ... view more

Levin Statement on the State of the Union Address 1/27/2010
Congressman Sander Levin released the following statement after President Obama delivered the State of the Union address.  ... view more

Levin, Dingell, Peters Call for Greater Access to Credit for Manufacturers 1/28/2010
Representatives Sander Levin, John Dingell, and Gary Peters announced today that they will be introducing legislation to help manufacturers to access the financing they need to expand, diversify, and hire new workers.  President Obama has made access to credit a central priority of economic recovery efforts and is expected to address the issue during tonight’s State of the Union. ... view more

Southeast Michigan Awarded $2 Million to Provide Training and Placement in Clean Energy Jobs 1/20/2010
The U.S. Department of Labor announced today that the State of Michigan is the recipient of a State Energy Sector Partnership and Training Grant to train workers in the skills demanded by local renewable energy and energy efficiency firms and place the workers into jobs.  The state’s grant application calls for $2,092,290 to be used in Southeast Michigan for training in advanced energy storage and solar energy.  The funding, awarded as part of the Recovery Act, will utilize key partnerships between industry, labor, and workforce organizations. ... view more

House Votes to Allow Taxpayers to Claim Deduction for Haiti Relief on 2009 Taxes 1/20/2010
(Washington D.C.)- The House of Representatives passed legislation today that would allow charitable contributions to victims of the earthquake in Haiti prior to March 1st to be claimed as an itemized charitable deduction on taxpayers’ 2009 tax return rather than their 2010 tax return.   The legislation was passed unanimously by the House and is expected to be taken up by the Senate soon. ... view more

$238 Million in Tax Credits Awarded to Michigan for Green Manufacturing 1/8/2010
The White House announced today the award of $238 million in tax credits for 13 clean energy manufacturing projects across Michigan.  The tax credits were created by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act which was signed into law last year.  Congressman Levin joined the rest of the Michigan delegation in a letter of support, available here, for applications of Michigan facilities. ... view more

Macomb, Oakland to Receive $2 Million for Emergency Food and Shelter Assistance 1/7/2009
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced on December 31st that Oakland County will receive $1,099,037 and Macomb County will receive $940,777 from the Emergency Food and Shelter Program.  A local board, chaired by the United Way of Southeast Michigan, will divide the allocation between social service organizations, both public and private, to supplement and expand ongoing efforts to provide shelter, food and support services. ... view more

Levin at Copenhagen Climate Conference 12/17/2009
Representative Levin, the Chair of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, has joined Speaker Pelosi on a delegation that left yesterday evening to Copenhagen for the UN Climate Conference.  He is working to ensure that climate change negotiations will result in a global solution to this global problem and will not unfairly disadvantage U.S. industry and workers. ... view more

Levin Calls for Action on Jobs 12/16/2009
The House of Representatives passed, by a vote of 217 to 212, the Jobs for Main Street Act.  By passing the Jobs bill the House took the first step in additional action to help the economy recover and create jobs.  The next vital step is action by the Senate. ... view more

House Approves $1.6 Million for Lawrence Tech to Develop Combat Armor 12/16/2009
The House of Representatives approved $1.6 million for Lawrence Technological University to develop and test stronger, lighter vehicle armor.  The funding was included in the annual Department of Defense funding bill, which the House approved today on a vote of 395 to 34.  The measure must now be approved by the Senate. ... view more

Michigan Members Win Quick Action on Asian Carp 12/14/2009
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will get an additional $13 million to fend off the spread of Asian carp into the Great Lakes. Members of the Michigan Congressional delegation hope this is just the first round of emergency funding to thwart a crisis the carp would certainly cause in the Great Lakes.  In all, it is estimated it will take $30 million in FY2010 to prevent the carp from invading and devastating the Great Lakes. ... view more

Houses Passes Landmark Wall Street Reforms 12/11/2009
The House of Representatives passed today a comprehensive set of measures to modernize America’s financial regulations, hold large financial firms accountable and improve consumer protections.  The package of reforms addresses the myriad causes – from predatory lending to unregulated financial trading – that led to last year’s financial crisis.  The Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act passed by a vote of 223 to 202. ... view more

$1.025 Million for Oakland County's CLEMIS Included in Consolidated Appropriations Bill 12/11/2009
The House of Representatives approved $1.025 million for Oakland County's Courts and Law Enforcement Management Information System (CLEMIS) yesterday.  The funding is part of the Consolidated Appropriations bill, a measure which combines 6 of the 12 annual funding bills, that the House passed by a vote of 221 to 202.  The project funding, which will purchase new biometric identification technology, was requested by Reps Levin, Peters, and Rogers, as well as Senators Levin and Stabenow. ... view more

House Approves $150,000 to Help Establish Health Care Clinic in Ferndale 12/11/2009
The House of Representatives passed the Consolidated Appropriations bill yesterday by a vote of 221 to 202.  The measure, which combines 6 of the 12 annual funding bills, includes $150,000 to renovate a building and purchase equipment for the FernCare Free Clinic, a health clinic to be located on Nine Mile Road in Ferndale.  ... view more

Macomb County Projects Included in Consolidated Appropriations Bill 12/10/2009
The House of Representatives passed the Consolidated Appropriations bill today by a vote of 221 to 202.  The measure, which combines 6 of the 12 annual funding bills, includes several projects requested by Congressman Sander Levin, along with other members of the Michigan delegation, that directly benefit Macomb County. ... view more

House Passes Tax Relief Extensions 12/9/2009
The House of Representatives passed the Tax Extenders Act of 2009 today to provide individuals and businesses with approximately $31 billion in tax relief.  The legislation extends for one year more than forty provisions that are scheduled to expire at the end of 2009.  This includes $5 billion in individual tax relief, $17 billion in business tax relief, and $7 billion of tax provisions that encourage charitable contributions, provide community development incentives, provide tax relief in the event of disasters, and support the deployment of alternative vehicles and alternative fuels.  The Tax Extenders Act of 2009 passed by a vote of 241 to 181. ... view more

Levin Introduces Bill to Provide Tax Incentive for Small Business Investment 12/8/2009
Congressman Sander Levin introduced legislation today to eliminate capital gains tax on investments in qualified small business stock during 2010.   The proposal was included in President Obama’s 2010 budget and reiterated as part of a jobs package in his speech today at the Brookings Institute.  The legislation would build on the Recovery Act, which included a 75% exclusion from capital gains tax for qualified investments in 2009 and 2010. ... view more

Independent Report Confirms Negative Impact of Health Care Excise Tax on Middle Class Families 12/4/2009
(Washington D.C.)- A report released yesterday reaffirmed Representative Joe Courtney’s (D-CT) and Rep. Sandy Levin’s (D-MI) opposition to the Senate’s proposed excise tax on high-cost health plans in any health care reform legislation.  The report was conducted by Mercer, a global human resources consultancy that has conducted a comprehensive annual survey of employers to collect information on employer health plans for over 20 years. The independent study demonstrates that the excise tax on high-cost health care plans will have a negative impact on middle class and working families and found that nearly two-thirds of employers would cut covered benefits to avoid paying the tax. ... view more

$9.6 Million Awarded to Help Michigan Residents Purchase Efficient Home Appliances 12/3/2009
The Department of Energy announced today the release of $39 million to six states for state-run energy efficient appliance rebate programs.  Michigan and Ohio received the largest allocations from today’s disbursement with Michigan’s program totaling $9,598,000.  The state estimates that this will provide over 114,000 rebates for clothes washers, refrigerators, dishwashers, and other appliances. ... view more

Levin Calls for Emergency Unemployment Compensation to be Available Next Year 12/2/2009
Led by Subcommittee Chairman Jim McDermott, Representative Levin and other members of the Ways and Means Committee joined together to introduce legislation to extend eligibility for federal unemployment insurance programs so that those who exhaust regular benefits or lose their jobs next year will be eligible for the emergency unemployment measures which were created last year and through the Recovery Act.  Provisions, which provide up to 99 weeks of unemployment insurance, as well as a $25 addition to unemployment checks, are set to expire at the end of the year.  Once emergency programs expire, approximately 30,000 people per day will exhaust their benefits, reaching three million by the end of March. ... view more

Levin Statement on President Obama's Address on Afghanistan 12/2/2009
Representative Sander Levin issued the following statement after President Obama’s address on the war in Afghanistan. ... view more

Levin Statement to Financial Services Committee on Small Business Lending 11/30/2009
Congressman Sander Levin submitted the following testimony today to the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations which held a field hearing at Lawrence Technological University in Southfield.  The Congressional panel received witness testimony on small businesses’ struggle to secure loans and smaller financial institutions lack of access to capital during the current economic downturn. ... view more

Michigan Awarded Tri-State Grant to Improve Worker Retraining for Auto Workers 11/18/2009
The U.S. Department of Labor announced today that Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio are the recipients of a $4 million State Labor Market Information Improvement Grant.  The grant will allow the relevant state agencies, including Michigan’s Department of Labor and Economic Growth, to collect data on where job growth is occurring and what skills are needed to obtain those jobs.  The study will have an emphasis on locating career path opportunities for displaced auto workers in energy efficiency and renewable energy industries.  The funding for the grant was provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. ... view more

Levin Speaks Out in Favor of Health Care Reform Legislation 11/7/2009
Rep. Sander Levin just spoke on the Floor of the U.S. House of Representatives in support of the Health Care Reform legislation. ... view more

Members Call for Fairness in Korean and Japanese Auto Markets 11/6/2009
Congressman Sander Levin, Chairman of the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, released a letter today to U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk urging that more be done to open South Korean and Japanese automobile markets.  During recent Korean and Japanese auto incentive programs, similar to the “Cash for Clunkers” program, market share for all foreign brands declined even further.  The letter was signed by Senators Levin and Stabenow; Ways and Means Chairman Charles Rangel; Reps. Dingell, Upton, Ehlers, Kildee, McCotter, Peters, Sutton and Miller. ... view more

House Votes to Add 20 Weeks for Michigan Unemployment Insurance 11/5/2009
The House of Representatives today passed legislation which extends unemployment insurance up to 20 weeks for jobless workers who have exhausted their previous extensions.  Additionally, the legislation extends and expands the availability of the homebuyer tax credit and provides tax relief for businesses hard hit by the recession.  The Emergency Unemployment Compensation Extension Act passed by a vote of 403 to 12.  The President is expected to sign the measure into law. ... view more

Levin Statement on Senate Vote to Extend Unemployment Insurance 11/4/2009
Congressman Sander Levin released the following statement regarding Senate passage of an extension to emergency unemployment compensation. ... view more

House Votes to Expedite Credit Card Reform 11/4/2009
The House of Representatives today passed legislation to prevent credit card companies from instituting unfair practices by moving forward the effective date for previously passed reforms.  Congressman Levin is an original co-sponsor of the legislation, which passed by a vote of 331 to 92. ... view more

Levin Statement on Health Care Reform 10/29/2009
The House Democratic Caucus released the Affordable Health Care for America Act, legislation to lower health costs, expand access to care, and bring new competition and fairness to the insurance market.  Congressman Levin made the following statement regarding the legislation. ... view more

House Approves $475 Million for Great Lakes Restoration 10/29/2009
(Washington D.C.)- The House approved legislation today to provide $475 million for a new Great Lakes restoration effort.  The funding, approved as part of the annual funding bill for the Department of the Interior and Environmental Protection Agency, passed the House by a vote of 247 to 178.  The Senate is expected to approve the measure in the near future, clearing the legislation for President Obama's signature. ... view more

Levin Statement on Tenneco Award 10/27/2009
Congressman Levin made the following statement regarding the announcement that Tenneco, Inc. had been awarded a $24 million conditional loan commitment as part of the section 136 loan program. ... view more

Levin Calls for End to Offshore Tax Abuse 10/27/2009
The Chairmen of the House Ways and Means Committee and Senate Finance Committee, along with senior committee members, unveiled a comprehensive proposal today to clamp down on offshore tax evasion by giving the IRS new tools to detect, deter and discourage offshore tax abuses.  Representative Levin is a member of the Ways and Means Committee and original co-sponsor of the legislation. ... view more

Levin Statement on Passing of Leonard Haggerty 10/27/2009
Congressman Sander Levin issued the following statement regarding the passing of Leonard Haggerty. ... view more

GM Wins Grants to Develop Heat Energy Capture 10/26/2009
The Department of Energy announced today funding for 37 advanced energy research projects including a $2.6 million project at General Motors to develop technology to convert waste heat from car engines into electricity at the GM Technical Center in Warren.  This could result in vehicles that are significantly more efficient. ... view more

$2.7 Billion Released for Home Energy Assistance 10/22/2009
The Department of Health and Human Services announced the release of $2.7 billion in grant funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) today.  The funding, which is for the remaining months of the year, will be used to help eligible families pay the costs of heating and insulating their homes this winter.  ... view more

House Passes HIV/AIDS Treatment Legislation 10/21/2009
The House of Representatives passed legislation to strengthen the Ryan White program which provides care, treatment and support services to nearly half a million Americans living with HIV and AIDS – most of whom are low-income.  The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act passed by a large, bipartisan vote of 408 to 9. ... view more

Congressional-Executive Commission on China Releases Annual Report on State of Human Rights in China 10/16/2009
The Congressional-Executive Commission on China published its 2009 Annual Report on October 14.  The Commission was created by Congress in 2000 to monitor human rights and the development of the rule of law in China. The full text of this year’s report is available at www.cecc.gov, along with a PDF containing case records of 1,279 political prisoners currently detained or imprisoned in China. ... view more

Trade Subcommittee Chairman Levin Responds to Treasury’s Semi-Annual Currency Report 10/15/2009
(Washington D.C.)- Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement following the Treasury Department’s issuance of its semi-annual Report to Congress on International Economic and Exchange Rate Policies: ... view more

House Approves Expansion of Senior Nutrition Program 10/7/2009
(Washington, D.C.)  – The House of Representatives approved the annual agriculture appropriations bill today by a vote of 263 to 162.  Included in the legislation is an increase in funding, fought for by Rep. Levin, for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), a monthly food delivery service which provides nutritious meals to nearly half a million people across the country.  In the Detroit area, the program is administered by Focus: HOPE, a local non-profit and long-time advocate for the program, which serves 41,000 people in the area, 35,000 of whom are seniors. ... view more

Levin: Senate Tax on Health Benefits Flawed 10/7/2009
Representative Sander Levin joined Reps. Joe Courtney, Pete Stark, Betty Sutton, and Mazie Hirono at a press conference today to unveil a letter signed by 157 members of the House Democratic Caucus to Speaker Nancy Pelosi opposing a Senate Finance Committee proposal to tax so-called “high-cost” health care benefit plans. ... view more

Levin Now Accepting Applications for Nominations to the U.S. Service Academies 10/2/2009
U.S. Rep. Sander Levin is currently accepting applications from students seeking a nomination to one of the four U.S. Service Academies: Air Force Academy, Naval Academy, Military Academy, and the Merchant Marine Academy. Applicants must live in the 12th Congressional District, and must be U.S. citizens between the ages of 17 and 21.  All students seeking admittance to the Service Academies must first receive a nomination from one of the three authorized nominating sources: U.S. Representative, U.S. Senator, and the Vice President. ... view more

Michigan Awarded $38 Million to Retrain Unemployed Workers 9/29/2009
U.S. Department of Labor announced today three grants totaling $38,033,600 to provide dislocated workers retraining in areas of economic growth, including healthcare, advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and management, scientific and technical consulting services.  The amount released today will be funded by resources made available for National Emergency Grants under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. ... view more

Eastpointe Wins Energy Efficiency Grant 9/25/2009
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced that the Eastpointe Housing Commission will receive a $492,000 Recovery Act grant to improve energy efficiency at Berry Manor, an apartment complex for low-income seniors administered by the Commission. ... view more

Houses Passes Bill to Protect Medicare Beneficiaries 9/24/2009
The House of Representatives passed the Medicare Premium Fairness Act, legislation which will protect seniors and people with disabilities from unfair increases in their 2010 Medicare Part B premiums.  The legislation passed by a bipartisan vote of 406 to 18. ... view more

Chairman Levin Issues Online Fact Check on China Tires 9/24/2009
Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander M. Levin (D-MI) posted on his website a special section devoted to the Obama Administration’s decision to provide temporary relief as recommended by the independent International Trade Commission (ITC) on tire imports from China.  The website can be accessed by clicking on the following graphic: ... view more

Macomb, Oakland Receive Community Development Grants from Recovery Act 9/23/2009
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced that all Recovery Act funding for Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) have been released and are now in the hands of the state and local communities.  The Recovery Act included $1 billion for CDBG of which $2.9 million was allocated for Macomb and Oakland Counties and communities. ... view more

House Votes to Add 13 Weeks of Unemployment Insurance 9/22/2009
The House of Representatives approved an additional 13 weeks of benefits for people in states with unemployment rates above 8.5 percent.  The legislation passed by a vote of 331 to 83. ... view more

House Approves Sweeping College Aid Reform 9/17/2009
The House of Representatives voted today to make the nation’s largest investment ever in student financial aid.   The Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA) will raise the maximum Pell Grant award, simplify the student financial aid application process, and begin the community college initiative President Obama proposed while at Macomb Community College.  The legislation, which is fully paid for, passed by a vote of 253 to 171. ... view more

House Passes Advanced Vehicles Act to Spur Next Generation of Cars and Trucks 9/16/2009
The House of Representatives voted today to build on the success of the Department of Energy’s vehicle technology programs, such as FutureCar and the 21st Century Truck Partnership, which boost American manufacturing innovation and reduce our dependence on foreign oil.  The Advanced Vehicle Technology Act, which creates a comprehensive national vehicle research and development program, passed on a bipartisan vote of 312 to 114. ... view more

Chairman Levin Statment Regarding Retaliation in Response to the China Tires Decision 9/14/2009
House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Sander Levin (D-MI) issued the following in response to news reports that China intends to retaliate following the Obama Administration’s decision to provide temporary relief to address a market-disrupting surge in tire imports from China: ... view more

Obama Administration Stands Up for American Workers, Industry 9/14/2009
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 statements in response to President Barack Obama’s decision to address the harmful surge of low-priced Chinese tires in the U.S. marketplace:  ... view more

Levin Statement on President Obama's Address on Health Care Reform 9/10/2009
Representative Sander Levin issued the following statement after President Obama’s joint address to Congress. ... view more

Chippewa Valley Awarded $125,000 for Local Drug Free Coalition Efforts 8/27/2009
The White House announced today that the Chippewa Valley Coalition for Youth & Families will receive a $125,000 Drug Free Communities (DFC) grant for its efforts to facilitate active citizen participation in local drug prevention efforts.  The DFC program was created by the Drug Free Communities Act of 1997, legislation co-authored by Congressman Levin. ... view more

Rep. Sander Levin Statement on Senator Ted Kennedy 8/26/2009
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement on the passing of Senator Ted Kennedy. ... view more

Levin Statement on CARS Program 8/20/2009
Congressman Sander Levin released the following statement regarding the Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS) program: ... view more

Army Corps of Engineers to Fund Restoration Effort in Red Run Drain 8/19/2009
The US Army Corps of Engineers has updated its list of projects funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, including several previously unfunded projects. Included in the new projects is a total of $3.75 million to reduce sedimentation and improve water quality in the Red Run Drain.  The Red Run Drain is a tributary of the Clinton River.   ... view more

Michigan Members Have Questions About Skyrocketing Blue Cross Rates 8/19/2009
Congressmen John D. Dingell (D-MI15) and Sander Levin (D-MI12) have questions for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan President and CEO Daniel J. Loepp about a series of rate hikes the company announced late last week.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan plans to hike monthly premiums for 163,000 Michigan citizens who buy the insurer's nongroup or group conversion plans on average by 22 percent.  Blue Cross will also increase supplemental Medicare policies, known as Medigap, held by about 210,000 Michigan seniors by an average of 4.7 percent.  Blue Cross had requested an average 56 percent hike for its nongroup plans and 41 percent for its group conversion policies. ... view more

Michigan Firms Awarded $966 Million to Jump-Start U.S. Battery Manufacturing 8/5/2009
The Department of Energy (DOE) awarded $2.4 billion in Recovery Act funding to support advanced batteries and electric vehicles manufacturing and development today.  These funds include $1.5 billion for advanced battery manufacturing.  The battery awards come about as a result of $2 billion that was included for advanced batteries in the economic recovery bill approved by Congress earlier this year and were a top priority of the Michigan congressional delegation.  ... view more

House Approves Additional $2 Billion for “Clunkers” 7/31/2009
The House of Representatives today approved legislation to re-direct $2 billion from Recovery funds for the Consumer Allowance Rebate System (CARS), also known as “Cash for Clunkers.”  The funding was considered on an expedited basis after the Department of Transportation informed Members of Congress that dealerships across the country may have already sold enough care to exhaust the $1 billion in funding previously provided.  ... view more

Sweeping Food Safety Overhaul Passes House 7/30/2009
(Washington D.C.)- The House of Representatives approved broad legislation to reduce the occurrence of food-borne illness in the United States today.  The Food Safety Enhancement Act gives new authority to the Food and Drug Administration while requiring food producers to keep more detailed records and take preventative measures.  The legislation passed by a vote of 283 to 142. ... view more

House Defense Bill Boosts Army Stryker Vehicle 7/30/2009
The House of Representatives approved a $636 billion defense funding bill today.  The House passed the measure on a vote of 400 to 30. ... view more

Macomb Awarded $979,400 to Launch Training Initiative 7/30/2009
Rep. Sander Levin welcomed the news that the Macomb-St. Clair Michigan Works was being awarded a $979,400 grant from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to lead in starting a new program to help unemployed workers 55 years and older throughout southeast Michigan. ... view more

Levin Calls for Extension of Unemployment Insurance for Hardest Hit States 7/30/2009
Led by Subcommittee Chairman Jim McDermott, Representative Levin and other members of the Ways and Means Committee joined together to introduce legislation to extend the Emergency Unemployment Compensation program for another 13 weeks in states with unemployment over 9%.  Michigan, which has lost 777,000 jobs since 2000, had an unemployment rate in June of 15.2%. ... view more

Lawrence Tech Wins Grant to Assess Needs of Entrepreneurs 7/27/2009
The Economic Development Administration (EDA) of the Department of Commerce announced today that Lawrence Technological University will receive a $70,000 grant to study entrepreneurship, innovation, and product development in southeast Michigan.  The study, which will include a focus on displaced automotive workers, will make recommendations to the Economic Development Administration on steps to improve the entrepreneurial infrastructure. ... view more

Levin Introduces Hybrid Truck Tax Credit 7/28/2009
Congressman Sander Levin introduced legislation today to extend and improve the existing tax credits for the purchase of medium and heavy duty hybrid vehicles.  Tax credits ranging from $1,500 to $12,000 are currently available for the purchase of medium or heavy duty hybrid vehicles, such as delivery vehicles, utility trucks and garbage trucks.  The maximum credit varies depending on the size and fuel efficiency of the vehicle.   This important incentive to speed the deployment of heavy duty hybrid vehicles is currently set to expire at the end of this year.  ... view more

House Votes to Expand Community Development Block Grants 7/24/2009
The House of Representatives approved the annual appropriations bill for transportation and housing today which included $4.6 billion for Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), an increase of $725 million or 18.7 percent.  The bill was approved by a vote of 256 to 168. ... view more

House Approves Pay-As-You-Go Legislation 7/22/2009
The House of Representatives approved the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act today which requires Congress to offset the costs of new entitlement spending or tax cuts with savings elsewhere in the budget.  Rep. Levin is a co-sponsor of the legislation, which passed by a vote of 265 to 166. ... view more

Chairmen Rangel and Levin New Emphasis on Trade Enforcement 7/16/2009
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 statements following Ambassador Ron Kirk’s speech in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on the trade enforcement priorities of the Office of the United States Trade Representative: ... view more

Doctors Support House Health Reform Plan 7/16/2009
(Washington D.C.)- Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement after the American Medical Association endorsed H.R. 3200, the America’s Affordable Health Choices Act. ... view more

Levin Introduces Improved Tax Deduction for Food Bank Donations 7/15/2009
Rep. Sander Levin introduced bipartisan legislation with Rep. Geoff Davis of Kentucky today to expand and strengthen a tax deduction that encourages business donations to food banks and pantries.  The legislation permanently extends the current tax deduction so that all business taxpayers are eligible and provides a two year increase in the amount of the deduction to address the increased need during the recession and economic recovery. ... view more

Health Reform Legislation Introduced in House is Important First Step 7/14/2009
{The three House Committees (Ways and Means, Energy and Commerce and Education and Labor) responsible for health care legislation jointly introduced legislation to advance health care reform today.   The Ways and Means Committee, on which Rep. Levin serves, will consider the legislation on Thursday. ... view more

Levin Statement on GM 7/10/2009
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement regarding the New GM created today. ... view more

House Approves Funding Boost for Nutrition Programs 7/9/2009
The House of Representatives passed the Agriculture Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2010 by a vote of 266-160 today.  Representative Levin submitted the following statement into the record regarding the legislation. ... view more

Macomb, Oakland Receive $7.6 Million for Weatherization Assistance 7/6/2009
The US Department of Energy released $288 million in weatherization assistance funds today, including $97.3 million for Michigan.  Macomb County received $3.2 million and Oakland County received $4.4 million.  The counties previously received funds for training and ramp-up activities, and will be eligible for additional funds ($4 million for Macomb and $5.5 million for Oakland) after the state meets reporting guidelines.  The funding, to be administered by Macomb County Community Services Agency and Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency respectively, will provide home energy audits and weatherization improvements to local eligible homeowners.  ... view more

CECC Chairman and Cochairman Call on China to Abide by Commitments to Protect Human Rights and Promote the Rule of Law in Xinjiang 7/9/2009
Senator Byron Dorgan, Chairman and Representative Sander Levin, Cochairman of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC) made the following statement on the Chinese government’s response to demonstrations in the Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region of China: ... view more

Levin Statement on GM Asset Sale Approval 7/6/2009
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement regarding court approval for the exit of GM’s good assets from bankruptcy. ... view more

Levin Announces Congressional Page Appointment 7/2/2009
U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) is pleased to sponsor Marley Ward, a junior at South Lake High School for the Congressional Page Program offered by the U.S. House of Representatives.  Ms. Ward will serve as a Congressional Page from July 5 through August 1, 2009 in Washington, D.C. ... view more

Job Loss Figures Spotlight Need for State and Federal Action 7/2/2009
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement regarding the national jobs report released today by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Bureau of Labor Statistics. ... view more

Clean Energy Bill Will Spur Green Jobs, Reduce Carbon Emissions 6/26/2009
The House of Representatives passed the American Clean Energy and Security Act by a vote of 219 to 212 today.  By limiting the pollutants which cause global warming, the legislation greatly expands the market for clean energy, invests in advanced research, reduces our dependence on foreign oil, and spurs millions of new jobs. ... view more

Levin Statement on GM Building Small Car at Orion Plant 6/26/2009
Representative Sander Levin issued the following statement after General Motors chose the Orion Township plant for construction of a new, small, fuel-efficient car: ... view more

House Approves $475 Million for Great Lakes 6/26/2009
The House approved legislation today to provide $475 million for a new Great Lakes restoration effort.  The funding, approved as part of the annual funding bill for the Department of the Interior and Environmental Protection Agency, passed by a vote of 254-173.  ... view more

Levin Urges Quick Action on Community Assistance Funds 6/24/2009
Representative Sander Levin urged Commerce Secretary Gary Locke and Dr. Ed Montgomery to quickly implement the new Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) for Communities program.  The program is designed to provide aid to communities when a key trade-affected industry closes or downsizes and creates severe economic challenges for an entire community.  The program was created in the Trade and Globalization Act approved as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and received a $40 million appropriation in the Supplemental Appropriation that President Obama signed into law today. ... view more

Ford Receives $5.9 Billion for Retooling 6/23/2009
The Department of Energy has announced today that Ford Motor Company, Tesla Motors, and Nissan USA are the recipients of federally subsidized retooling loans.  The loans were authorized under the Advanced Technology Vehicle Incentive Program (ATVIP) in Section 136 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. ... view more

House Releases Draft on Health Care Reform 6/19/2009
Rep. Sander Levin, a member of the Ways and Means committee with jurisdiction over health care legislation, made the following statement on the Draft Legislation released today by three House Committees (Ways and Means, Energy and Commerce and Education and Labor). ... view more

Levin Introduces Health Care Quality Improvement Legislation 6/18/2009
Representative Sander Levin introduced the Healthcare Improvements for Generating High Performance (or HIGH Performance) Act today which would establish a network of technical assistance centers to help health care providers implement clinical, managerial, and health care delivery best practices. ... view more

$69 Million in Unemployment Modernization Funds Coming to Michigan 6/17/2009
The U.S. Department of Labor yesterday certified the release of $69.4 million in unemployment insurance (UI) modernization incentive funds, roughly one third of the total UI funds available for Michigan.  Michigan could receive another $138 million, but the Michigan State Senate has failed to act on the necessary legislation.  Congress made these funds available in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act) to states that incorporate certain improvements into their unemployment insurance laws. ... view more

$1 Billion Approved for Fleet Modernization 6/16/2009
{The House of Representatives passed legislation today which included $1 billion to provide consumers with an incentive to recycle their older vehicles and replace them with new, cleaner, and more fuel efficient models.  The Fleet Modernization provisions were included in a Supplemental Appropriations bill for funding ongoing military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, pandemic flu response, and other needs.  The House approved the bill on a vote of 226 to 202. ... view more

Macomb and Oakland Receive Allocations from Recovery Zone Bond Program 6/12/2009
The U.S. Treasury Department announced today that nearly $2 billion in bond authority will be immediately available for the state and local governments in Michigan under the Recovery Zone Bonds program.  Recovery Zone Bonds, created under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act are targeted to areas particularly affected by significant job loss and will help state and local governments raise capital for economic development projects.  ... view more

Levin Statement on Chrysler 6/10/2009
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement regarding the completion of the alliance between Chrysler and Fiat. ... view more

House Approves Fleet Modernization Legislation 6/9/2009
The House of Representatives today passed legislation to provide consumers with an incentive to recycle their older vehicles and replace them with new, cleaner, and more fuel efficient models.  H.R. 2751, the Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save (CARS) Program, was passed by a vote of 298-119.  Rep. Levin is an original co-sponsor of the legislation. ... view more

$50 Million in Additional Trade Adjustment Assistance on Way to Michigan 6/2/2009
Rep. Sander Levin, who worked to get a new Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program included in the Recovery Act, issued the following statement about the supplemental allocation of TAA funds for Michigan. ... view more

Levin Statement on General Motors 6/1/2009
(Washington D.C.)- Sander Levin issued the following statement regarding the bankruptcy filing by General Motors. ... view more

Saluting our Veterans on Memorial Day 5/22/2009
This Memorial Day, as we remember the sacrifice and courage of the men and women who have fought for our country, I wanted to take a moment to share with you efforts taken this year to ensure that our veterans receive the benefits and compensation they deserve.  The Obama Administration and Congress have made veterans care a priority and I look forward to implementing an aggressive new agenda. ... view more

Rep. Levin Statement on New Mileage and Fuel Emissions Standards 5/19/2009
Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), who will be attending the President’s announcement regarding new mileage and emissions standards for automobiles at the White House, made the following statement in advance of the event: ... view more

House Passes Mortgage Reform to Fight Predatory Lending and Curb Foreclosures 5/7/2009
The U.S. House of Representatives today voted 300-114 in favor of H.R. 1728, 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.  ... view more

$250 Economic Recovery Payments To Social Security Recipients Begin To Go Out Today 5/7/2009
The $250 economic recovery payments for Social Security recipients, which were provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, will begin to go out on today, May 7 – with the goal of all these payments being sent out by the end of May.  ... view more

Michigan Delegation Spotlights Specific Actions for Obama's Auto Community Czar 5/6/2009
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement after release of the Michigan Delegation’s letter to Ed Montgomery, the Director of Recovery for Auto Communities and Workers, appointed by President Obama.  Dr. Montgomery will be holding a Community Forum in Warren on Friday. ... view more

Levin Introduces Legislation to Expand Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing Incentive Program 5/5/2009
Rep. Sander Levin has introduced legislation to increase the amount of loans available to help automakers and suppliers retool to manufacture advanced technology vehicles and components. The bill, H.R 2150, would amend Section 136 of the Energy Independence and Security Act to increase the amount of retooling loans available under the Advanced Technology Vehicle Incentive Program (ATVMIP) from $25 billion to $50 billion.  ... view more

Levin Statement on President's International Tax Reform Proposals 5/4/2009
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement today regarding President Obama’s proposals to reform tax incentives for multinational corporations and to limit the abuse of offshore tax havens.  ... view more

Levin Statement on Chrysler 4/30/2009
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement today. ... view more

Chrysler-Fiat Alliance Making Progress, Michigan Members Call on Holdout Secured Creditors to Participate 4/28/2009
The following Members of the Michigan Congressional Delegation (Senators Levin, Stabenow, Reps. Dingell, Levin, Upton, Stupak, Peters, Kildee, Schauer, Conyers, and Candice Miller) joined together in making the following statement. ... view more

CHRYSLER BANK CREDITORS NOW HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO DEMONSTRATE COMMITMENT TO MAIN STREET 4/27/2009
The entire Michigan Congressional Delegation (Senators Levin and Stabenow, Reps. Dingell, Levin, Upton, Miller, Kildee, Peters, McCotter, Rogers, Stupak, Schauer, Kilpatrick, Camp,  Ehlers, Hoekstra and Conyers)  joined together in making the following statement today. ... view more

Federal Car Purchases Important Commitment to Future of Big 3 4/9/2009
Rep. Levin issued the following statement in response to the Obama Administration’s announcement regarding federal fleet purchases. ... view more

Levin Releases Online Community Resource Guide for Federal Recovery Programs 4/9/2009
Rep. Sander Levin released an online Community Resource Guidebook for the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that became law in February.  ... view more

Levin Reintroduces Carried Interest Tax Reform Legislation 4/3/2009
Rep. Sander Levin today reintroduced legislation to tax carried interest compensation at the same ordinary income tax rates paid by other Americans.  Currently, the managers of private investment partnerships are able to receive compensation for these services at the much lower capital gains tax rate rather that the ordinary income tax rate by virtue of their fund’s partnership structure. ... view more

3.7 million Michigan Families to Benefit from Recovery Package Tax Credit 4/1/2009
Our State and Nation is facing the most severe economic and financial crisis in generations.  To help middle-class families get back on their feet and restore some fairness to the tax code, the Economic Recovery package that became law in February included the Making Work Pay Tax Credit.  As a result, families across the country will see more money in their paychecks.  This is one of the fastest and broadest tax cuts in American history. ... view more

Rep. Levin on "New Path to Viability for GM Chrysler" 3/30/2009
Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement after President Obama’s address on the “New Path to Viability for GM & Chrysler.” ... view more

Rep. Sandy Levin Statement on Passing of Former State Representative Aldo Vagnozzi 3/27/2009
“Aldo Vagnozzi was a tireless advocate for the rights of workers.  His gracious manner, sense of humor, and his willingness to always pitch in to help others made him a dear friend to so many over his distinguished career.  His presence will be missed at so many gatherings, but his work on behalf of the labor movement, in his community and in the State Legislature will have a lasting positive impact for Michigan residents.   I extend my deepest sympathies to members of his family.” ... view more

Full Disclosure of Congressional Earmark Requests FY 2010 3/29/2009
For many years, the process of Congressional funding requests - sometimes known as "earmarks" - lacked transparency and accountability. Since assuming the majority in 2007, Congressional Democrats have overhauled the process for requesting project-specific funding requests. For the last two years, every earmark approved by Congress included public disclosure of which Member(s) requested the money, which entity received the funds, what the funds were for, and how much money Congress approved. Members requesting earmarks must also certify that they have no financial interest in the project. ... view more

Advanced Battery Manufacturing Grants a Critical Investment in Vehicles of the Future 3/20/2009
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement regarding the announcement by President Obama that the Department of Energy will make available $2.4 billion in grant funding to support advanced battery manufacturing, electric vehicle and component manufacturing, and vehicle electrification demonstration projects. ... view more

Congress Approves Tax on AIG and all Tax-payer Funded Bonuses 3/20/2009
The U.S. House of Representatives approved legislation to tax the bonuses paid to executives using taxpayer funds.  The vote was 328 to 93.  Mr. Levin, a member of the Ways and Means Committee that wrote the legislation, spoke in favor of passage.  Below are excerpts of his written statement: ... view more

Action for Supply Industry Sends Strong Signal of Support for Auto Industry 3/19/2009
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement regarding the announcement by President Obama’s task force that they are establishing a program to support the automotive supply industry during this domestic downturn and global financial crisis. ... view more

Ways and Means Committee Introduces Legislation on All Taxpayer Funded Bonuses 3/18/2009
The House Ways and Means Committee introduced legislation this afternoon addressing companies using taxpayer funds to pay executive bonuses.   ... view more

Ways and Means Committee Preparing Legislation to Tax AIG Bonuses 3/18/2009
The Ways and Means Committee met this morning to prepare legislation that would tax the bonuses provided to AIG executives from taxpayer funds. ... view more

Bright Day for Science; Hopeful Day for Millions of Americans 3/9/2009
Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement after President Obama’s signing of an Executive Order lifting the federal ban on embryonic stem cell research. ... view more

Michigan Unemployment Rate a Stark Reminder of the Need for Action 3/5/2009
(Washington D.C.)- Rep. Sander Levin (D-Mi) issued the following statement regarding the announcement that Michigan’s unemployment rate for January was 11.6 percent. ... view more

Water Infrastructure Funding to Help Reduce Pollution in Lake St. Clair 3/4/2009
(Washington D.C.)- Rep. Sander Levin praised Governor Granholm’s announcement today that two projects in communities bordering Lake St. Clair are eligible to receive funding under the economic recovery legislation recently approved by Congress. ... view more

Rep Levin's statement on President Barack Obama’s budget 2/26/2009
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement on President Barack Obama’s budget outline, released today: ... view more

The Powerful Message by the President: "Sobering and Stirring" 2/24/2009
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement tonight after President Barack Obama’s address to Congress. ... view more

Comprehensive Foreclosure Plan Essential to Restore Economic Stability 2/18/2009
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement regarding President Obama’s Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan. ... view more

Rep Sander Levin on the Auto Restructuring Plans 2/17/2009
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement regarding the submission by General Motors and Chrysler to the U.S. Treasury Department in accordance with their federal loan agreements. ... view more

Levin Statement on Presidential Task Force on Autos 2/16/2009
Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement regarding the Presidential Task Force on Autos. ... view more

Economic Recovery package on the Side of Michigan Families 2/13/2009
Speaking in favor of the Economic Recovery and Reinvestment package, Rep. Sander Levin made the following statement on the Floor of the U.S. House this morning. ... view more

Recovery Package to Provide Major Benefits to Michigan 2/12/2009
Congress has reached agreement on a major economic recovery and reinvestment package to create jobs, jumpstart economic activity and transform our economy.  The impact of this package will be particularly important to Michigan families and in the State’s effort to create jobs and re-shape our economy.  The U.S. House is scheduled to vote on the Recovery package tomorrow. ... view more

Staggering Job Loss Numbers Underscore Need for Immediate Economic Recovery Package 2/6/2009
In response to today’s jobs report from the Department of Labor (DoL), Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) reiterated the importance of fast action on the recovery package pending in Congress. ... view more

Expanded Trade Program to Help More Workers in Recovery Package 2/5/2009
Agreement has been reached to add a major expansion of the Trade Adjustment Assistance program to the Economic Recovery and Reinvestment package.  The House approved comprehensive legislation last year, but the Senate did not act.  In recent weeks, Members have been working on a bi-partisan basis and with the Obama Administration to craft comprehensive legislation, modeled on the House legislation, to be added to the recovery package. ... view more

House Sends Landmark Children's Health Bill to President's Desk 2/4/2009
The House of Representatives today passed H.R. 2, the Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act, by a vote of 290-135.  This landmark, bipartisan legislation reauthorizes the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), which currently provides health insurance for more than seven million children.  Today’s legislation protects coverage for those children, and expands it to include an additional four million children who would otherwise be uninsured.  President Barack Obama is expected to sign the bill into law this afternoon. ... view more

Economic Recovery Plan Creates Jobs, Provides Tax Cuts to Families and Businesses and Makes Key Investments in Our Economic Future 1/27/2009
Earlier today the House of Representatives began debate on H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, including provisions approved by the Committee on Ways and Means.  The House is expected to vote on the measure tomorrow afternoon. Rep. Sander Levin spoke about the urgency of the recovery package this evening during the debate and filed the following Floor Statement in support of the legislation: ... view more

Rep. Levin Statement on President Obama’s Plans to Achieve Energy Independence 1/26/2009
Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI-12) issued the following statement after President Obama’s announcement on the two Executive Orders he signed toward achieving energy independence. ... view more

Lawmakers Call for Advanced Battery Funding in Economic Recovery Bill 1/15/2009
A bipartisan group of 37 Members of Congress wrote to Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other House leaders on Wednesday to urge funding for loans and grants for advanced batteries and vehicles in the economic recovery package.  The letter was organized by Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) and Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA). ... view more

Many Benefits for Michigan in Economic Recovery Plan 1/16/2009
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan, released today by U.S. House Leadership, is a comprehensive recovery package that will bring many positive developments to the State of Michigan and our residents. ... view more

Jobs Report Underlines Need for Economic Recovery Package 1/9/2009
{In response to today’s announcement from the Department of Labor (DoL) that the number of unemployed Americans went up to more than 11 million --  the highest level in 25 years -- Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) today reiterated the importance of fast action on a recovery project  and inclusion of unemployment insurance expansion, Trade Adjustment Assistance and job creation funds.  DoL figures released today indicated that 524,000 jobs were lost in December alone, with over a million jobs lost in the last two months, and 2.5 million jobs lost in 2008.  The national unemployment rate also jumped to 7.2 percent. ... view more

Statement from Sen. Levin and Rep. Levin on Auto Bridge Loans 12/19/2008
Sen. Carl Levin (D-Mich.) and Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI12) issued the following statement today regarding the auto industry bridge loans announced by President Bush this morning: ... view more

Levin Statement on Auto Industry Bridge Loans 12/12/2008
Congressman Sander Levin (D-MI) released the following statement today: ... view more

Levin on House Approval of Bridge Loans to Automakers 12/10/2008
The House of Representatives today approved legislation to support the American auto industry and protect millions of auto-related jobs nationwide.  H.R. 7321, the Auto Industry Financing and Restructuring Act, passed by a vote of 237-170. ... view more

Dramatic November Jobs Lost Figures Highlight What Is at Stake in Auto Bridge Loan 12/5/2008
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement on the announcement by the Bureau of Labor Statistics that the United States lost 533,000 jobs during November, the largest one month decline since 1974. ... view more

Auto Plans Strong and Forward Looking 12/2/2008
Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) issued the following statement regarding the business plans submitted by Ford, G.M. and Chrysler in their response to the path outlined by Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to support the request for a federal bridge loan to weather the current recession and increase global competitiveness in the years ahead. ... view more

Levin Statement on Signing of Unemployment Extension 11/21/2008
President Bush today signed a much-needed extension of unemployment benefits to provide assistance to the long-term unemployed struggling to find work in a weakening job market.  The extension, passed by the House last month and the Senate yesterday, provides a 7-week extension of benefits nationwide and an additional 13-week (for a total 20-week) extension in high unemployment states like Michigan beyond a state’s traditional unemployment program ... view more

Levin on Efforts to Assist Domestic Auto Industry 11/20/2008
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement on the status of efforts to secure a bridge loan for the domestic auto industry. ... view more

Rep. Levin Testifies on the Need for Bridge Loans for Automakers 11/19/2008
In testimony before the House Financial Services Committee today, Congressman Sander Levin emphasized the urgent need to provide bridge loans to American automakers to protect millions of U.S. jobs and allow the companies to continue the historic restructuring they have been undergoing in recent years.  Congressman Levin told the committee that the current financial crisis threatens the domestic auto industry, the backbone of the U.S. manufacturing and industrial base. ... view more

Congressional Executive Commission on China Releases Annual Report on State of Human Rights in China 11/18/2008
{The Congressional-Executive Commission on China adopted its 2008 Annual Report on October 31 by a vote of 22 to 1.  The 23-member Commission was created by Congress in 2000 to monitor human rights and the development of the rule of law in China. The full text of this year’s report is available at www.cecc.gov, along with a PDF containing case records of 1,088 political prisoners currently detained or imprisoned in China. ... view more

Rep. Levin to Honor Local Veterans for Their Work in Recording Veterans Histories 11/10/2008
{This afternoon Rep. Levin will be joining Mayor Brenda Lawrence, City Librarian Dave Ewick, and Commission Chairman Dan Brightwell in an event honoring the work of the Southfield Veterans Commission in conjunction with the Veterans History Project. ... view more

Michigan Delegation Urges Immediate Action on Auto Industry 11/10/2008
The Michigan Congressional Delegation sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson urging that he use authority granted under the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act (EESA) or other statutes to provide emergency assistance to the domestic automobile industry.  Members of the Michigan delegation released the following statements regarding the letter: ... view more

Statement on the House and Senate Leadership Meeting with Auto Industry 11/6/2008
Chairman John Dingell and Representative Sander Levin issued the following statement after the meeting of U.S. House Leadership with top executives from Ford, General Motors, Chrysler and the President of the United Auto Workers. ... view more

House Passes Emergency Economic Stabilization Act 10/3/2008
Responding to a week of nearly unprecedented turmoil in the financial markets, the House of Representatives passed legislation today to shore up the financial system and maintain access to credit markets for consumers and businesses.  It was passed by a vote of 263-171. ... view more

Federal Mortgage Refinancing Program Comes into Effect 10/1/2008
The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, signed into law on July 30, includes a number of provisions to address the mortgage crisis and help homeowners facing foreclosure.  At the heart of the legislation is a program called Hope for Homeowners, which authorizes the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to insure up to $300 billion in refinanced loans.  The program brings affordable, sustainable mortgages within reach for qualified homeowners whose lenders are willing to refinance based on the home’s current value.  The new program begins October 1, 2008, and will be available for three years.  ... view more

Oakland and Macomb Communities Allocated Millions for Neighborhood Stabilization 9/30/2008
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced that Michigan has been allocated a total of $263,563,263 under the Neighborhood Stabilization Program to purchase and redevelop foreclosed properties.  With foreclosure rates across the state among the nation’s highest, Michigan received the third largest allocation behind Florida and California. ... view more

Rep. Levin on Emergency Economic Stabilization Act 9/29/2008
Rep. Sander Levin issued the following statement today after the House failed to approve the Emergency Economic and Stabilization Act of 2008.  Mr. Levin voted in favor of the legislation. ... view more

House Approves Extension of Unemployment Benefits as part of Economic Stimulus Package 9/26/2008
The House of Representatives today approved an extension of unemployment benefits as part of a broader economic stimulus package to promote job creation and preservation, invest in infrastructure, and provide economic and energy assistance. The Job Creation and Unemployment Relief Act would provide a 7-week extension of unemployment benefits nationwide, with an additional 13-week extension for high unemployment states like Michigan (for a 20-week extension total).  The measure passed by a vote of 264-158. ... view more

House Approves Measure to Strengthen Mental Health Care 9/23/2008
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. 6983, the Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, was approved by a vote of 376-47.  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. ... view more

Ukrainian Famine-Genocide Remembered by House 9/23/2008
The House of Representatives today approved H.Res.1314, a resolution introduced by Representative Sander Levin to remember the 75th Anniversary of the Ukrainian Famine-Genocide of 1932-1933 and extend the sympathies of the House of Representatives.  The resolution was approved by voice vote. ... view more

House Passes Landmark Credit Card Industry Reform Bill 9/23/2008
The House of Representatives today passed legislation to curb unfair and deceptive credit card lending practices.  Representative Levin is a co-sponsor of the Credit Card Holder’s Bill of Rights Act which was approved by a vote of 312-112.  The legislation would put in place protections against arbitrary interest rate increases, due date gimmicks, and misleading terms. ... view more

Great Lakes Compact Approved 9/23/2008
The House of Representatives today passed the Great Lakes Compact, a measure designed to ensure Great Lakes water is not diverted to other regions.  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.  The Compact was approved by a vote of 390-25. ... view more

House Approves Great Lakes Legacy Act 9/18/2008
{The House of Representatives today passed legislation to update the key federal law that helps fund the environmental cleanup of contaminated sediment in Great Lakes Areas of Concern.  The bill, H.R. 6460, passed by a vote of 371-20. ... view more

House Passes Comprehensive Energy Package 9/16/2008
The House of Representatives today passed legislation to lower energy costs for consumers, invest in renewable energy sources, expand domestic energy exploration and create greater energy efficiency and conservation.  The Comprehensive American Energy Security & Consumer Protection Act, H.R. 6899, was approved by a vote of 236-189. ... view more

Effort Starts to Continue Extension of Unemployment Benefits 9/11/2008
(Washington D.C.)-  Congressman Sander Levin supports providing a further extension of unemployment benefits for Americans struggling to find work in the nation’s increasingly difficult job market.  H.R. 6867 would provide a 7-week extension of unemployment benefits nationwide, with an additional 13-week extension for high unemployment states like Michigan (for a 20-week extension total).  The bill may be included in a larger economic stimulus plan in the coming weeks. ... view more

Further Job Losses Show Need for Economic Recovery Plan 8/1/2008
(Washington D.C.)-  The U.S. Department of Labor’s monthly jobs report released today showed that the national unemployment rate rose and the economy continued to lose jobs in July, as it has for seven straight months.  51,000 jobs were lost in the past month; nearly half a million jobs have been lost since the beginning of 2008.  The unemployment rate rose in July to 5.7%.  The number of people looking for work climbed to 8.8 million.  Nearly one in five of those looking for work have been jobless for six months or more. ... view more

Measure to Promote Equal Pay for Women Approved 7/31/2008
(Washington D.C.)-  The House of Representatives today passed legislation to help bridge the wide disparity in wages between men and women working in similar jobs. H.R. 1338, the Paycheck Fairness Act, strengthens the landmark Equal Pay Act signed by President Kennedy in 1963 and closes loopholes that have allowed employers to avoid penalty for discriminatory pay.  The measure passed by a vote of 247-178.   ... view more

House Passes Consumer Protection Regulation Overhaul 7/30/2008
(Washington D.C.)- The House of Representatives today passed the most expansive overhaul of U.S. product safety rules in decades to bolster consumer protections from unsafe products.  The legislation, H.R. 4040, imposes sweeping new rules to make children’s toys and other products safer, increases penalties for rule violators, and strengthens the enforcement ability of the Consumer Product Safety Commission by providing the Commission more resources while cracking down on potential conflicts of interests that have tainted the organization recently.  The bill passed with near unanimous support, 424-1.  ... view more

Republican Opposition Sinks Bill to Curb Oil Market Speculation 7/30/2008
(Washington D.C.)-  Legislation to strengthen market regulation to stop excessive speculation in the energy futures markets from driving up gas prices failed in the House of Representatives today.  H.R. 6604, the Commodity Market Transparency and Accountability Act, would have closed loopholes that allow speculators to escape regulatory rules, increase market transparency and increase regulatory staff to fight market manipulation and fraud.  ... view more

House Members Call for Funding to Create Green Jobs and Build Advanced Technology Vehicles 7/28/2008
(Washington D.C.)-  A bipartisan coalition of over 70 U.S. House Members have sent a letter to House leadership urging funding be provided for a program to help American auto manufacturers build advanced technology vehicles.  The lawmakers are requesting $3.75 billion to activate the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Incentive Program, which was authorized but not funded in the Energy Independence and Security Act last year.  This amount would fully fund the program, providing up to $25 billion in low-interest credit to U.S. automakers and parts suppliers to retool manufacturing facilities to build fuel saving vehicles such as plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles and their key components.  ... view more

Bill to Curb Identity Theft Introduced 7/25/2008
(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.  ... view more

Great Lakes Compact Introduced in Congress 7/23/2008
(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. ... view more

House Passes Bill to Combat Foreclosure Crisis 7/23/2008
(Washington D.C.)-  In response to the nationwide economic downturn caused by the housing and credit crisis, the House of Representatives has approved 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.  ... view more

Legislation to Address Housing Crisis to be Voted on Today 7/23/2008
(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.  ... view more

First Unemployment Extension Checks to be Sent 7/21/2008
(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.  ... view more

Chairmen Rangel and Levin Introduce Trade Enforcement Bill 7/17/2008
(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. ... view more

Michigan Lawmakers Urge President to Release Emergency Energy Funds 7/10/2008
(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. ... view more

Levin Statement on President Signing Extension of Unemployment Benefits 6/30/2008
(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: ... view more

House Approves Middle Class Tax Relief 6/25/2008
(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.  ... view more

House Approves Extension of Unemployment Benefits 6/19/2008
(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. ... view more

Levin Hails Strong House Vote for Unemployment Extension 6/12/2008
(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.  ... view more

Ways and Means Democrats Urge Bush to Support an Extension of Unemployment Benefits 6/6/2008
(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: ... view more

House Votes to Combat Oil Cartel Price Fixing 5/20/2008
(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. ... view more

House Approves Extension of Unemployment Benefits 5/15/2008
(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.  ... view more

House Approves Major Bills to Address Housing Crisis 5/8/2008
(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.  ... view more

Levin and Fellow Dems to Bush: Lower Gas Prices by Suspending Fill of Strategic Petroleum Reserve 5/8/2008
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. ... view more

House Committee Approves Legislation to Help Struggling Homeowners 5/1/2008
(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.  ... view more

House Approves $1 Million in Funding for Roseville Road Repair 5/1/2008
(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. ... view more

House Approves Legislation to Protect Lakes from Invasive Species 4/24/2008
(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. ... view more

House Approves Bill to Prevent Genetic Discrimination 5/1/2008
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. ... view more

House Votes to Stop President's Medicaid Rule Changes That Could Reduce Health Care Coverage and Cost States Billions of Dollars 4/23/2008
(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. ... view more

More than 25 Members Join with Dingell, Michigan Democrats to Call for Second Economic Stimulus Package 4/18/2008
(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. ... view more

Levin Statement on U.S.-South Korea Free Trade Agreement 4/18/2008
(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: ... view more

Rep. Levin Supports Bill to Protect Continued Access to Federal Student Loans 4/17/2008
(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. ... view more

Levin Features Michigan Stories as Committee Passes Legislation to Extend Unemployment Benefits 4/16/2008
(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. ... view more

House Passes Taxpayer Assistance and Simplification Act Of 2008 4/15/2008
(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. ... view more

House Approves Resolution On China's Crackdown In Tibet 4/9/2008
(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.   ... view more

Ways And Means Committee Approves Housing Bill 4/9/2008
(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. ... view more

Rep. Levin Speaks In Support Of House Resolution On Tibet 4/8/2008
(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.  ... view more

Jobs Report Shows More Evidence Of Overdue Need To Extend Unemployment Insurance 4/4/2008
(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%. ... view more

Levin Introduces Bi-partisan Legislation To Further Encourage Advance Medical Plans For Times Of Health Care Crisis 4/3/2008
(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. ... view more

Rep. Levin Supports Full Disclosure Of Congressional Earmark Requests 4/3/2008
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.  ... view more

Rep. Levin Supports Bill To Expand U.s. Effort To Fight Global Hiv/aids, Tb, And Malaria 4/2/2008
(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. ... view more

Rep. Miller And Rep. Levin Urge Funding For Lake St. Clair/st. Clair River Management Plan 4/1/2008
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: ... view more

Administration Must Adopt New China Trade Strategy 3/27/2008
(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. ... view more

Congressman Levin Addresses Lake St. Clair Conference 3/19/2008
(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. ... view more

House Approves Resolution To Strengthen Ethics Enforcement 3/12/2008
(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. ... view more

House Attempts Veto Override Of Bill That Outlaws Torture 3/11/2008
(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. ... view more

New Jobs Report: Largest Monthly Jobs Loss In Five Years 3/7/2008
(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. ... view more

House Approves Measure To Strengthen Mental Health Care 3/5/2008
(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. ... view more

House Passes Energy Bill To Invest In Renewable Energy And Energy Efficiency 2/27/2008
(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. ... view more

Congressman Sander Levin Meets With Seniors To Highlight Important Details Of Economic Stimulus Package 2/20/2008
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. ... view more

Levin/rangel Statement On Enforcing Trade Rules 2/14/2008
(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: ... view more

Levin Statement On President's Signing Of Economic Stimulus 2/12/2008
(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): ... view more

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

Levin Statement On Economic Stimulus Package 2/7/2008
(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.   ... view more

House Passes Bill To Address Rising College Prices & Remove Other Barriers To College Enrollment 2/7/2008
(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. ... view more

Rep. Levin Applauds SSA Decision Partially Suspending Regulation Limiting The Rights Of Disabled Americans To Appeal 1/31/2008
(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. ... view more

Levin Statement On Economic Stimulus Package 1/29/2008
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. ... view more

Levin Response To State of the Union 1/28/2008
(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: ... view more

Levin Statement on Economic Stimulus Deal Reached 1/24/2008
(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: ... view more

Levin Statement on Attempted S-chip Veto Override 1/23/2008
(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: ... view more

Levin Statement on Bush Economic Stimulus Address 1/18/2008
(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: ... view more

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.  ... view more

Local Residents Participate in National Program to Keep Veterans Stories Alive 1/7/2008
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.  ... view more

Local Student Excels as Capitol Hill Page and is Asked to Return for Next Year 1/3/2008
(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. ... view more

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

House Approves Mortgage Tax Relief Measure 12/18/2007
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. ... view more

Levin Supports Landmark Energy Legislation 12/18/2007
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. ... view more

Levin Supports Comprehensive Energy Bill 12/6/2007
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: ... view more

Levin Encourages Party Conventions to Consider Inter-regional Primary 12/4/2007
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.  ... view more

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 11/29/2007
(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. ... view more

House Stands for New Budget Priorities and Investment in Health, Education and Training 11/16/2007
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.  ... view more

House Passes Mortgage Reform to Fight Predatory Lending and Curb Foreclosures 11/16/2007
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.  ... view more

House Approves Bill to Set Timetable for Redeployment of Troops Out of Iraq 11/15/2007
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. ... view more

House Votes for Middle Class Tax Relief, Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility 11/9/2007
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.  ... view more

Levin Urges Vote for Middle Class Tax Relief, Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility 11/8/2007
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.  ... view more

U.s. Trade Policy Makes Dramatic Change in Course 11/8/2007
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. ... view more

House Passes Employee Non-discrimination Act 11/7/2007
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. ... view more

House Votes to Override Bush's Veto of Water Protection Legislation 11/6/2007
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. ... view more

House Approves Overhaul of Trade Adjustment Assistance to Better Meet Needs of Workers in Global Economy 10/31/2007
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. ... view more

One Year After Historic Elections, New Congressional Majority Highlights Accomplishments 11/1/2007
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.    ... view more

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

Picture a New Presidential Primary System 10/26/2007
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. ... view more

Levin Introduces Legislation to Encourage Donation of Healthy Food To Local Food Banks and Hunger Programs 10/26/2007
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.    ... view more

Levin Statement on Rangel Tax Reform Bill 10/25/2007
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. ... view more

Ways and Means Committee Approves Overhaul of Trade Adjustment Assistance to Better Meet the Needs of Workers in Global Economy 10/24/2007
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. ... view more

American Workers Seek a New Direction for Trade Policy 10/12/2007
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: ... view more

House Ends Outsourcing of Abusive and Inefficient Private Tax Collection Program 10/10/2007
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. ... view more

House Approves Mortgage Tax Relief 10/4/2007
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.  ... view more

Levin Statement In Support of the State Children's Health Insurance Reauthorization Act of 2007 9/25/2007
(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: ... view more

Report by Trade Commission Highlights Repeated Failure of Korea to Open Markets 9/20/2007
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. ... view more

Rep. Levin Welcomes Senate Introduction of Presidential Primary Reform Bill 9/6/2007
(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. ... view more

Rep. Levin on Legislation to Address Ubit Rules that Encourage Off-shore Investment 9/6/2007
(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. ... view more

Levin Announces Congressional Page Appointment Lianna Stroser of St. Clair Shores 8/1/2007
(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. ... view more

Levin to Hold Hearing on China Trade Legislation 8/1/2007
(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. ... view more

Congress Approves Health Care for Kids 8/1/2007
(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.  ... view more

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

Levin, Miller Announce Funding for Emergency Radios 7/26/2007
(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). ... view more

Lake St. Clair Funding Clears Another Hurtle Water Resources Bill Calls for Up to $20 Million to Restore Lake St. Clair 8/1/2007
(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. ... view more

Congress Stands Up for Great Lakes Moves to Stop Indiana From Issuing Permit to Dump Ammonia into Lake Michigan 7/24/2007
(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. ... view more

House Votes to Increase Funding for Renewable Energy and Vehicle Technology 7/18/2007
(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. ... view more

House Approves Education/HHS Appropriations Bill Funds Education and Research 7/19/2007
(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. ... view more

Rep. Levin Corrects Record on Iraqi Refugees in Michigan 7/18/2007
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: ... view more

House Ways and Means Committee Passes Social Security Number Privacy and Identity Theft Act 7/18/2007
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. ... view more

House to Consider Legislation Requiring Redeployment from Iraq Requires Redeployment Within 120 Days 7/12/2007
(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.  ... view more

House Passes Single Largest Investment in College Aid Since Gi Bill 7/11/2007
(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. ... view more

Levin and Democrats Introduce Legislation to End Carried Interest Tax Advantage 6/22/2007
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. ... view more

Winners of the 2007 Congressional Art Competition 5/4/2007
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. ... view more

Levin Details Problems With Korea FTA at Hearing of the International Trade Commission 6/20/2007
{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: ... view more

House Debates Veterans Funding Bill: Demcorats Fulfill Promises to Nation's Veterans 6/15/2007
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.  ... view more

Information on the House Page Program 6/8/2007
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. ... view more

MI Delegation Introduces American Manufacturing Initiatve: Michigan Democrats Call for Comprehensive Initiative to Revitalize U.S. Manufacturing 5/23/2007
(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. ... view more

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

MSU Satellite and Macomb County Perfect Match 5/15/2007
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: ... view more

Congress and Administration Announce New Trade Policy 5/10/2007
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.  ... view more

Levin Opening Statement at Tripartite Hearing on Currency 5/9/2007
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: ... view more

Levin, Camp Introduce Investment in America Act 5/3/2007
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. ... view more

Levin Supports Veto Override of Iraq Accountability Act 5/2/2007
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. ... view more

House Approves Bill to Limit Canadian Trash 4/24/2007
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). ... view more

4-year Public University Key to Macomb's Future 4/23/2007
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. ... view more

House Passes Water Resources Development Act 4/19/2007
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). ... view more

Trade Deficit Continues at Unsustainable Pace 4/13/2007
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: ... view more

Levin Responds To China WTO Intellectual Property Cases 4/9/2007
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: ... view more

Levin Reacts to Recess Appointment Of Biggs To Social Security Administration 4/5/2007
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: ... view more

Levin Statement On U.S. - South Korea FTA 4/2/2007
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): ... view more

Rangel and Levin Seek Extension of Trade Preferences for the Andean Nations of Peru, Colombia, Bolivia and Ecuador 3/29/2007
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.  ... view more

Rangel And Levin Respond to Commerce Subsidy Investigation 3/30/2007
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: ... view more

Administration Must Change Course in U.S.-South Korea FTA Negotiations 3/29/2007
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.  ... view more

Rangel and Levin Unveil New Trade Policy for America 3/27/2007
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.  ... view more

Levin Supports Iraq Supplemental Bill 3/23/2007
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. ... view more

Chairman Levin Opening Statement at Trade Subcommittee Hearing on U.S. - South Korea FTA 3/20/2007
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: ... view more

Funding for Lake St. Clair Restoration Clears First Hurdle 3/15/2007
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). ... view more

Chairman Levin's Opening Statement at Subcommittee Hearing on Nonmarket Economy Trade Remedy Act of 2007 3/15/2007
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: ... view more

"Rush to the Front" Spotlights Need for Comprehensive Reform of Presidential Nominating System 3/14/2007
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." ... view more

Address by King Abdullah Ii Ibn Al Hussein, King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan 3/7/2007
(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: ... view more

Levin Trade Speech: Using Trade as a Tool to Shape Globalization 3/5/2007
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). ... view more

Proposal To Open Korea's Closed Market Sent To President To Jumpstart Negotiations 3/2/2007
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. ... view more

Watch U.S. Rep. Levin Speak On The Iraq Resolution 2/15/2007
U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives today in support of the Iraq Resolution. ... view more

Chairman Levin's Opening Statement During Trade Hearing On China 2/15/2007
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: ... view more

Levin Opening Statement At Ways And Means Committee Hearing On U.S. Trade Agenda 2/14/2007
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: ... view more

Congressional Leaders Urge Bush To Act As 2006 Annual Trade Deficit Breaks All Time Record 2/13/2007
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: ... view more

Administration Must Shift Course On Trade Policy Prior To TPA Extension 2/12/2007
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): ... view more

Congressional Leaders Urge Paulson To Press Japan Over Yen At G-7 Summit 2/9/2007
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: ... view more

China Must Be Held Accountable For Unfair Trade Practices 2/2/2007
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: ... view more

House Cleans Up Budget Mess 1/31/2007
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. ... view more

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