In the Rochester and Finger Lakes region, you can dial 211 to access a variety of resources, including local shelters and food banks. You can also access these resources by visiting www.211FingerLakes.org.
If your power is out, you may need to seek alternative shelter in cold weather. To search for an open shelter, text "SHELTER" and a zip code to 43362. For additional immediate assistance, you can find resources listed here.
To report downed power lines or hazardous situations, all RGE customers can call a hotline at 1-800-743-1701.
If you have experienced storm related damage to your home or business, you can apply for disaster assistance from FEMA. Click here to learn more, or dial 1-800-462-9029 or 1-800-621-3362 to contact FEMA directly.
While major storm conditions may have passed, continue to monitor weather forecasts via local television and radio reports. You can also visit www.weather.gov (http://mobile.weather.gov on your mobile phone) for the latest forecast.
“Deaf is beautiful.” That is the message shared by millions of people across the world this week, as we gather to celebrate the unique beauty, dynamism and intelligence of the Deaf community.
Have you, or someone you know, been exposed to lead? If so, please stop by the Jordan Health Link for one of the following lead blood tests. The tests are open to the public- even if you don't have health insurance.
Leading Scientists and Farmers Say Antibiotic Use in Animals a Threat to Human Health
This morning I was honored to join 150 scientists and research physicians, along with 50 meat, poultry and dairy producers to call on the FDA and Congress to end the imprudent use of antibiotics in animal agriculture. Routine use of antibiotics on healthy animals is unnecessary and it endangers human health. In February, the Translational Genomics Research Institute published a study that conclusively links the routine use of antibiotics in food-animal production to deadly, antibiotic-resistant MRSA that can infect humans. This is just the latest piece of evidence that demands our attention. The threat of antibiotic-resistant disease is real, and it is immediate, and we must take action.
On February 16, 2012, Rep. Slaughter sent a letter to over 60 fast food companies, meat producers, meat processors, and grocery store chains asking them to disclose their policies on antibiotic use in meat and poultry production. Almost half of the companies replied to Rep. Slaughter's request, giving public health experts, legislators, and members of the American public insight into the use of antibiotics in food animals. The findings from Rep. Slaughter's survey are clear: there is an urgent need to change the practices of American food producers to ensure that antibiotics are used responsibly in the production of food animals.
In the summer of 1865, the bloodiest war in our nation's history was brought to a close. For 4 years, our nation was at war with itself. While the American Civil War tested our unity, we did not tear apart. And as our nation stepped out from the shadow of war, Memorial Day was born.
Tomorrow morning at 9:30 am, my office will be hosting a workshop on how to protect yourself from fraud. Bevin Murphy, from the US Federal Trade Commission will be there to answer your questions and provide you with helpful information on protecting yourself and your family from this threat.
The event will be held at The Legacy at Clover Blossom in Rochester, and is open to the public. Come on down tomorrow morning!
Louise Slaughter, has led the effort to ensure that Western New York farmers can access the labor they need. The federal government's H-2A visa program has traditionally suffered from delays, paperwork burdens and confusion for growers. These bureaucratic hurdles put the prosperity of Western New York farmers at risk. As the number one economic driver in Upstate New York, a thriving agriculture industry is essential for the Empire State.
Western New York farmers faced a challenging spring when late frosts damaged crops across the region. On May 17, 2012, Rep. Slaughter wrote to Governor Cuomo to move forward with the process of obtaining a Secretarial Disaster Declaration from the US Department of Agriculture. Such a declaration would provide farmers with the economic stability they need to recover from lost crops and continue to provide the world's best produce without pause.
On June 6, 2012, Slaughter's efforts proved successful, as the USDA announced disaster designations for counties throughout Western New York. With this news, farmers is Western New York will be able to bounce back and continue providing the world's best produce throughout the remainder of the growing season and well into the future.
In addition to assisting farmers in the their time of need, Slaughter has led the fight to cut red tape and make the H-2A visa program work for Western New York farmers. She has built a partnership between herself, the Department of Labor and WNY farmers- a partnership that has led to significant changes to the way the program is administered.
Specifically, because of the partnership:
Making Better Use of the Internet. New York is one of the selected states to participate in a pilot e-mail program allowing the Department of Labor to communicate more efficiently with growers. In addition, a dedicated e-mail address has been established for growers to ask direct questions to the National Processing Center in Chicago (
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
).
Establishing a Web-Based Filing System. The Department of Labor is also working to develop a new web-based filing system for the H-2A program that will allow growers to check an application's status electronically. The Labor Department announced that the new system should be ready for implementation in late summer 2012.
Providing More Guidance Before Filing. The Department of Labor has developed "filing tips" based on actual problems encountered by growers. The Department continues to post Frequently Asked Questions on an ongoing basis and published an H-2A Small Business Handbook fall 2011. Resources were made readily accessible on the Department's website, such as the Adverse Effect Wage Rate for their state.
Frequent Communication with Growers. The Department of Labor held three "stakeholder" conference calls this past winter and will continue to seek input and advise from the grower community to discuss emerging issues to address before they turn into a larger problem.
Slaughter has dedicated herself to solving this issue because at risk are Upstate New York's seasonal fruit and vegetable crops and thousands of jobs in Upstate New York. Growers from across Upstate and across the country have long said that the H-2A guestworker program needs improvements to help ensure access to the labor necessary to keep America's farms running.
Timeline of Slaughter's Work to Get Local Growers Access to the Labor They Need
In March 2011, Slaughter met with local farmers and staff from the Department of Labor in her Washington office where they outlined their concerns with the cumbersome H-2A application process.
Last June, Slaughter wrote to U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Hilda Solis outlining the concerns of farmers as they experienced more inconsistencies in their H-2A applications saying, "According to farmers in my district, many who have participated in the program for decades, the H-2A program has become increasingly difficult to use as a result of the multiple changes that have occurred in the past five years."
In July, Slaughter hosted a follow up summit with Deputy Secretary Seth Harris, Members of Congress and several regional growers that allowed many of the concerns raised consistently by local growers to be addressed directly by the Department of Labor.
In September, Deputy Secretary Harris wrote to Slaughter pledging to complete eight actionable items to improve the administration of the program by making better use of the internet, establishing a web-based filing system, providing more guidance to growers before they file necessary paperwork, and making Department representatives available to growers early in the process to more quickly iron out any discrepancies.
In December, the Department of Labor released an Employer Handbook for employers anticipating filing an H-2A application for next season. The 16-page hand book, complete with information on filing job orders and H-2A applications, conducting recruitment for U.S. workers, completing the temporary labor certification process and other helpful resources, can be found here.
In January, the Department of Labor announced in a letter to Slaughter that they have awarded a contract to a firm that will begin the process of putting elements of the H-2A program online.
From telemarketing scams to stealing personal information over the internet, there are many ways that your money and identity can be stolen. While the Federal Trade Commission is in charge of fighting these scams, as a Member of Congress, I can share valuable information with you to help you from becoming a victim of fraud. Please use these resources, and always think twice before sharing your personal information.
Below is a list of top ten ways to protect against fraud (courtesy of the Federal Trade Commission). You can also use one the links below to learn more about specific scams that are commonly used by criminals.
Preventing an Increase in the Cost of Student Loans
photo licensed under Creative Commons- photo by "pixculture"
A college education is key to success in today's economy, but for many students, the spiraling costs of higher education are creating an immense barrier. Making matters worse, unless Congress acts before the end of June, interest rates on federally subsidized education loans for millions of college students will double.
In 2007, I was proud to vote for the College Cost Reduction and Access Act- a bill that reduced the fixed rate on Stafford student loans for undergraduate students from 6.8 percent to 3.4 percent over a four-year period. This change eased the burden on thousands of students and their families. However, this bill is about to expire, and now absent Congressional action, on July 1 more than 7 million undergraduate students will see these interest rates double.
At a time of historic low interest rates for everything from houses to cars, students will be forced to pay as much as $5,000 more to obtain a college degree. Outstanding student debt in the United States has surpassed $1 trillion, and if Congress allows interest rates to double, this debt problem will only worsen.
I don't think that's right. I am a cosponsor of H.R. 3826, legislation that would prevent Stafford student loan rates from doubling on July 1, 2012.
Visit any of these locations between 10 am- 2 pm on Saturday April 28th, and simply drop off your unwanted prescription drugs. Local representatives will then safely dispose of them, ensuring that they will not pose a threat to public health.
America Revealed: How Your Food Gets to Your Plate
Above is a map of the millions of fast food outlets, grocery store chains, independent grocers, bakeries, restaurants and coffeshops where we get our food. Each one of these places must be supplied with food. How do we do it?
The PBS series, "America Revealed" shows how America has created the biggest, most productive food production system that the world has ever seen. The hour-long show discusses the advancements and inventions that have made our modern food production possible, and the dangers such a system pose to our environment and our own health.
Two Years Later: More Secure, More Affordable Health Care
Two years ago, I was honored to serve as Chairwoman of the House Committee on Rules and bring the historic Affordable Care Act to the House Floor. Seeing health care reform pass through Congress and be signed into law was one of the proudest moments of my 25 years in Congress.
The value of the law can be seen in the personal stories of New Yorkers and Americans who now have safe and affordable access to health care.
Rep. Slaughter is the author of H.R. 1749, the Reciprocal Market Access Act. This bill would put an end to the era of "giveaway trade" agreements like NAFTA, and finally provide American manufacturers with the tools they need to compete on a level playing field around the globe. Learn more about the Reciprocal Market Access Act below.
Last week I stood on the steps of the Supreme Court to deliver letters from Members of Congress, over 200 law professors, and more than 100,000 citizens. Our request? For the Supreme Court to adopt a code of conduct that will ensure accountability and transparency among the highest court in the land.
Tomorrow from 10am to 3pm, Western New York’s only passport agency, located at 111 Genesee Street in Buffalo, will join the U.S. Department of State to celebrate Passport Day in the USA 2012.
Among the services offered tomorrow:
U.S. Citizens will be able to apply for and renew a U.S. passport without the usually necessary appointment.
U.S. Citizens will be able to apply for an expedited passport, meaning it would be processed within 2-3 weeks instead of the usual 4-6 weeks
Local experts from the Buffalo Passport Agency will be on hand to answer questions on cross-border and international travel.
U.S. citizens must present a valid passport book when entering or re-entering the United States by air. U.S. citizens entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at land borders and sea ports of entry must present a passport book, passport card, or other travel documents approved by the U. S. government.
For more information on Passport Day in the USA, contact Thomas M. Kreutzer, Buffalo Passport Agency’s Customer Service Manager at 716-855-6005.
For more information on how to apply for a U.S. passport, visit www.travel.state.gov.
Hire a Hero This Saturday
The “Hire a Hero! Veterans Employment and Education Fair” will be held this Saturday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm in Room 301 of Freedom Hall at 3495 Bailey Avenue in Buffalo. The event will feature local employers, highlight educational opportunities available for veterans, workshops to improve interview and application skills, and information for veterans who own businesses.
Apply Early! Federal Student Aid is Available on an "As Needed", "First Come, First Serve" Basis!
Students in college and parents- please take a moment and act today to secure money for next year's college tuition! Its important that you apply as soon as possible. Federal Student Aid is awarded on an "as needed basis", and those who apply first have the best chance and securing financial assistance.
Rep. Slaughter has been a longtime leader for improved transportation options in Western New York- with the understanding that improved transportation options create a more vibrant local economy.
Upon first arriving in Congress, Congresswoman Slaughter succeeded in getting the Rochester Airport added to the Federal Aviation Administration's airport list. Inclusion on this list is critical to ensuring that airline carriers – not local taxpayers – fund airport expansion projects. Without a place on that list, the local government would have had to fund the millions of dollars in needed upgrades and we may not have the improvements we have today.
Have you been receiving suspicious calls from telemarketers? Many of them will start with prerecorded message such as "This is Rachel, from Card Member Services" and you will be told that you can lower your interest rates by talking to someone on the phone. When you speak to a real person, they ask you for your credit card information, and Social Security number. Often, you will receive these calls, even if you are registered on the National Do Not Call Registry.
If you have any feeling that you are a victim of a scam, DO NOT provide your personal information.
The simple fact is that, by law, businesses now need your written permission before they can call you with prerecorded telemarketing messages — also known as robocalls — regardless of whether you already have a relationship with the business.
Some prerecorded messages still are permitted under these rules — for example, messages that are purely informational. That means you still will receive calls to let you know your flight’s been cancelled, reminders about an appointment, or messages about a delayed school opening. But the business doing the calling isn’t allowed to promote the sale of any goods or services. Prerecorded messages from a business that is contacting you to collect a debt also are permitted, but messages offering to sell you services to reduce your debt are barred. Other exceptions include political calls and calls from certain healthcare providers. For example, pharmacies are permitted to use prerecorded messages to provide prescription refill reminders. Prerecorded messages from banks, telephone carriers and charities also are exempt from these rules if the banks, carriers or charities make the calls themselves.
However, if you receive a prerecorded telemarketing message that you believe is a scam, file a complaint immediately with the Federal Trade Commmission at donotcall.gov or by phone at 1-888-382-1222.
Many of these marketing scams are executed by international crime rings. Con artists reach out to potential victims by phone, email, postal mail, and through the Internet, and then trick them into sending money or giving out personal information.
Below are some tips, provided by the Federal Trade Commission, about how to avoid international scams. To report a possible telemarketing scam, please click here. The FTC is actively investigating multiple scams, and remain vigilant in protecting you from these dangerous phone calls. If you receive a "robocall" from any business or organization whom you did not explicitly allow to contact you, please file a complaint by going to www.donotcall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222.
Here are 10 things you can do to avoid a scam from an international crime ring (courtesy of the FTC):
1. Keep in mind that wiring money is like sending cash: the sender has no protections against loss. Con artists often insist that people wire money, especially overseas, because it's nearly impossible to reverse the transaction or trace the money. Don't wire money to strangers, to sellers who insist on wire transfers for payment, or to someone who claims to be a relative in an emergency (and wants to keep the request a secret).
2. Don't send money to someone you don't know. That includes an online merchant you've never heard of — or an online love interest who asks for money or favors. It's best to do business with sites you know and trust. If you buy items through an online auction, consider a payment option that provides protection, like a credit card. Don't send cash or use a wire transfer service.
3. Don't respond to messages that ask for your personal or financial information, whether the message comes as an email, a phone call, a text message, or an ad. Don't click on links in the message, or call phone numbers that are left on your answering machine, either. The crooks behind these messages are trying to trick you into giving up your personal information. If you get a message and are concerned about your account status, call the number on your credit or debit card — or your statement — and check it out.
4. Don't play a foreign lottery. First, it's easy to be tempted by messages that boast enticing odds in a foreign lottery, or messages that claim you've already won. Inevitably, you'll be asked to pay "taxes," "fees," or "customs duties" to collect your prize. If you send money, you won't get it back, regardless of the promises. Second, it's illegal to play foreign lotteries.
5. Don't agree to deposit a check from someone you don't know and then wire money back, no matter how convincing the story. By law, banks must make funds from deposited checks available within days, but uncovering a fake check can take weeks. You are responsible for the checks you deposit: When a check turns out to be a fake, it's you who is responsible for paying back the bank.
6. Read your bills and monthly statements regularly—on paper and online. Scammers steal account information and then run up charges or commit crimes in your name. Dishonest merchants sometimes bill you for monthly "membership fees" and other goods or services you didn't authorize. If you see charges you don't recognize or didn't okay, contact your bank, card issuer, or other creditor immediately.
7. In the wake of a natural disaster or another crisis, give to established charities rather than one that seems to have sprung up overnight. Pop-up charities probably don't have the infrastructure to get help to the affected areas or people, and they could be collecting the money to finance illegal activity. Check out ftc.gov/charityfraud to learn more.
8. Talk to your doctor before buying health products or signing up for medical treatments. Ask about research that supports a product's claims—and possible risks or side effects. Buy prescription drugs only from licensed U.S. pharmacies. Otherwise, you could end up with products that are fake, expired or mislabeled — in short, products that could be dangerous. Visit ftc.gov/health for more information.
9. Remember there's no such thing as a sure thing. If someone contacts you promoting low-risk, high-return investment opportunities, stay away. When you hear pitches that insist you act now, guarantees of big profits, promises of little or no financial risk, or demands that you send cash immediately, report them to the FTC. For more information about investment fraud, visit cftc.gov.
10. Know where an offer comes from and who you're dealing with. Try to find a seller's physical address (not just a P.O. Box) and phone number. With VoIP and other web-based technologies, it's tough to tell where someone is calling from. Do an internet search for the company name and website and look for negative reviews. Check them out with the Better Business Bureau at bbb.org.
UPDATE: Thank you to all of you who have written in, called, tweeted or facebook'ed me about SOPA. I've received a flood of comments this morning! Keep them coming. To clarify, I oppose both SOPA and PIPA. Both bills undermine the open access and freedom of the internet. We can protect copyright and intellectual property without the overreaching measures contained within these bills.
ORIGINAL POST:
Today, thousands of websites, including Wikipedia, have shutdown, denying access to millions of Americans looking to learn, share and collaborate through the power of the web. Like these websites, I am opposed to H.R. 3261, the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) as currently written. SOPA is intended to target "rogue" foreign websites engaging in copyright infringement. Combating online copyright infringement is a goal I strongly support. However, if enacted as currently written, SOPA would muzzle free speech and stifle innovation and economic growth.
If enacted, SOPA would overturn laws relating to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act's safe harbor provision, and would allow any government or corporation to block a website, remove it from a search engine, and/or cut it off from payment processors or advertisers, due to a simple allegation that the site posted infringing content, or accusation that the site contained links to infringing content. As a result, sites like Wikipedia, Twitter, Facebook, or YouTube could be required to monitor for any "banned" links, resulting in delegated proactive censorship of the Web, not to mention significant additional operating costs. These sites and others that rely almost entirely on user-generated content would struggle to stay afloat under these rules, and the internet – engine of innovation that we now know – would be irreparably changed for the worse.
The internet has revolutionized the world. It has created countless opportunities for entrepreneurs, small businesses, and individuals from all walks of life. It has only done so because of the open access that consumers and businesses have enjoyed. I believe Congress must enforce our copyright laws while protecting that access, so that the internet remains the great innovator that we know and love.
Make sure you and your children are safe from the dangers of lead poisoning. Take advantage of regular blood testing being conducted by the Anthony Jordan Health Center. With or without health insurance, you will be tested to make sure you are free from lead poisoning. For those with insurance, a standard co-pay will be charged. For those without insurance, you will NOT be turned away. For a schedule of the next free test, please visit: www.letsmakeleadhistory.org. You can also call the Jordan Health Link office (585) 454-2630 or call (585) 224-3125.
The major source of lead exposure is lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust found in deteriorating pre-1978 buildings. Lead is a neurotoxin and can cause serious health risks in both children and adults including brain damage, behavior issues, hearing loss, kidney damage, and high blood pressure. To learn more, visit www.letsmakeleadhistory.org.
William Street Post Office Should Remain Open for the People of Buffalo
I have closely followed the ongoing debate about whether or not to shut down mail processing at the William Street post office and transfer processing operations to Rochester. As many of you know, the United States Postal Service (USPS) has been conducting a study about this proposal, and I have a number of concerns about their work. I believe the USPS study has been hastily conducted and agree with the Postal Regulatory Commission that the study lacks proper analysis. Over 700 employees would be displaced if the William Street post office closed. These employees, and the residents of Buffalo, deserve a thorough, careful and credible analysis by the USPS.
On October 4th, I joined Rep. Higgins in writing a letter to the Postmaster General to oppose the proposed closing. I continue to believe that both the Buffalo and Rochester post offices should remain open, and provide jobs and vital services to the people and businesses of Western New York.
Congresswoman Louise Slaughter, the only microbiologist in Congress, recently held a briefing on the need to reduce the use of antibiotics in animal agriculture. Speakers included:
Stephen McDonnell, CEO, Applegate Farms Russ Kremer, Co-Founder and President, Ozark Mountain Pork Cooperative Steve Ells, Chairman and CEO, Chipotle Grill Paul Willis, Manager and Founder, Niman Ranch Pork Company
By now, many Americans are aware of the legislative acrobatics of House Republicans---acrobatics that have left Americans facing a tax increase at the end of the year. As Ranking Member of the Committee on Rules, I had a front row seat to these legislative acrobatics and I want to share them with you.
Slaughter Shares the Words of Her Constituents on the House Floor
On Thursday, November 17, I shared the words of my constituents on the House Floor. Constituents had submitted their thoughts on job creation through Facebook, Twitter and my website, and I compiled those words into a speech to share with my colleagues in Congress.
Below is a video of my speech and a transcript with citations for those who wrote in. Thank you all for your participation!
If you have more that you would like to share with me, or questions about how I can help you, please do not hesitate to contact my office and my staff and I will be happy to help in any way that we can.
Below is my statement, as prepared for delivery, regarding a proposal to make it easier to carry a concealed weapon. Click below to watch my remarks delivered on the House Floor:
I will be speaking on the House Floor about creating jobs, and I need your help.
Please send me your thoughts on creating jobs and I will compile your words into a speech from the American people. Simply "Like" my Facebook page "Follow" me on Twitter, or visit my website, and send me your suggestions for creating jobs and rebuilding our economy- words that you think should be shared on the House Floor.
Do you know someone looking for information, assistance and a community of support so that Americans with disabilities can fully participate in the workplace and in their communities? Please visit Disability.gov.
Disability.gov is a one-stop service for disability-related information on programs and services in communities nationwide. Disability.gov offers more than 14,000 resources on topics such as finding a job, getting health care, paying for housing and applying for benefits. The site provides timely information from federal, state and local government agencies, academic institutions and nonprofit organizations. Visitors can connect with Disability.gov through Twitter, Facebook or Disability.Blog.
This website seeks to connect people with disabilities, their family members, Veterans, caregivers, employers, service providers and others with the resources they need to ensure that people of all abilities can fully participate in all aspects of life.
I encourage you to make use of this resource today!
It seems obvious to everyone but those running Congress at the moment that we should be doing everything in our power to get Americans back to work. Instead, this week the majority decided to take up a bill to give away valuable American resources to foreign companies.
The bill would take sacred land from Native American tribes and give it away to two foreign corporations – one of which is partly owned by the Chinese government – in an attempt to give away millions of tons of our scarce copper resources to foreign companies. Furthermore, American taxpayers would not receive a dime of royalties in this deal.
One of these companies even partners with an Iranian business that mines uranium. In other words, the measure rewarded a company that helps Iran mine the fuel it needs for its nuclear efforts. This comes on the heels of a proposal to allow state-owned Russian and South Korean companies to mine uranium around the Grand Canyon. It is unconscionable.
On July 12th Congresswoman Slaughter spoke with Ed Shultz about the Reciprocal Markets Access Act and the need for a new era in trade.
The Reciprocal Markets Access Act would put an end to the era of giveaway free trade deals like NAFTA. Through tough enforcement mechanisms, American manufacturers would finally be gauranteed open foreign markets and level playing field against foreign competition.
Listen to Congresswoman Slaughter's interview with Ed Shultz below:
Most of you have probably seen the recent jobs report revealing that just 54,000 jobs were created last month. This report confirmed what most of us already know: our economy, and our government, is not doing enough to create American jobs.
The current Majority in Congress proposes lower taxes for corporations and the wealthiest Americans, continuing a decades-long belief that making the rich richer will result in prosperity for all. At the same time, both Republicans and Democrats are pushing forward with three free trade agreements that are poised to create thousands of jobs...overseas. All three free trade agreements are indicative of the misguided free trade policies that have led to the decline of manufacturing in the United States, and will do little to actually put Americans back to work.
In the shadow of these free trade agreements, I have introduced a piece of legislation that is designed to fundamentally alter our nation's free trade status quo, and truly give American manufacturers a chance to create jobs. Both manufacturers and unions, from Corning Inc. to the AFL-CIO, support this bill. It is being pushed forward by a strong group of legislators who all share the belief that we must create the conditions for American manufacturers to succeed.
The Reciprocal Market Access Act would provide the United States with a comprehensive approach towards the market barriers that often prevent American manufacturers from competing in foreign markets. Currently, poorly written trade bills result in barriers that prevent the sale of American goods abroad, while the American marketplace remains open to foreign goods and products.
If a trading partner violates the terms of a free trade agreement, or uses predatory and unfair trade practices, then American businesses have little recourse. Their only option is to file a complaint with the World Trade Organization, but these cases can take anywhere from 18 months to 3 years- a lifetime in the business world. During this time, the unfair practices are allowed to go on unchecked, leaving American manufacturers to try and survive in this unfair marketplace while they wait for a resolution to their case with the WTO.
Under The Reciprocal Market Access Act, a "snap-back" provision would incentivize foreign competitors to come to a swift and fair resolution with their American counterparts. Through this provision, the United States would have the authority to immediately reinstate prior barriers to the US market as necessary, while the unfair trade practices were resolved.
In short, the United States would finally be empowered to protect American markets from unfair trade practices, and ensure that American manufacturers could truly compete in foreign markets.
The simple truth is that a strong economy is as important as a strong military. In fact, a strong economy is vital to our ongoing war on terror. While alive, Osama Bin Laden often said that one of his goals was to bankrupt the United States, even if he couldn't defeat our military.
Over the last 5 years, our economy, and our country, has indeed struggled to pay all of our bills while we fight a global war on terror, and deal with the devastating effects of a prolonged recession. If we are to remain a global superpower in the years to come, we must create more jobs immediately, and put 14 million unemployed Americans back to work. I believe that starts with once again making things in America, and ensuring that our manufacturers can compete, and win, from free trade.
I believe we can do more than simply retrain workers for jobs that don't yet exist. Instead, its time we challenge the free trade status quo, and finally provide the opportunity for American manufacturers to fully access foreign markets with strong enforcement provisions to ensure fair free trade. With passage of The Reciprocal Market Access Act, I believe American manufacturers will be given the fair playing field they need to succeed and create new jobs here at home.
Today I am delivering a speech to the US High Speed Rail Association's DC Summit. In light of today's exciting high speed rail announcement from President Obama, I wanted to share the text of my speech with you.
Remarks as Prepared for Delivery
US High Speed Rail Association
February 8, 2011
I am so pleased to be speaking to you, particularly in light of today’s announcement that President Obama is prepared to commit $53 billion over six years to continue construction of a national high-speed and intercity passenger rail network.
We are at a vital moment in American history, and the President is answering the call for bold investments that will shape the future of our nation and our destiny as a competitive world power.
Like President Obama, I share the goal of giving 80 percent of Americans access to high speed rail within 25 years. Today’s announcement is a tremendous step in the right direction, and I intend to do all that I can to make sure this money is included in our final budget for this year, and becomes a secure source of funding over the next six years.
While I am aware of the resistance among some to spend money in our current economic environment, the truth is that only bold investments in our nation’s infrastructure will help us build a foundation for a stronger future and compete in the global economy.
A high speed rail network is also a matter of national security. The ability to ensure the safety of our citizens is tied directly to our ability to rebuild and retool our transportation networks and our economy that relies on these networks for success.
A national high speed rail system would provide a national security defense here at home. It would serve as a modern network to move both civilian and military personnel at a moment’s notice, while freeing our freight rail lines to move goods and supplies.
In addition, recent events in the Middle East have again reminded us of how closely tied we are to the oil-rich Middle East to meet our energy needs. This dependency is bad for America’s national security interests, and will only get worse as the world’s oil supply reaches its peak and begins to decline. A national high speed rail system ends our oil dependency quickly and permanently, and prevents our country from being dragged into future struggles to secure oil to meet our energy needs.
In addition to our dependence on foreign oil, we face an increasingly urgent climate crisis, with more severe and dangerous storms grinding commerce to a halt, stranding millions, and threatening human life. These storms are just the latest reminder that the benefits of a greener rail system can no longer wait.
If we are to realize the economic, environmental and security benefits of high speed rail, we must think big. Anything other than a national high speed rail network just won’t do.
We have the chance to design nothing less than the transportation and economic foundation of the next 50 years. But if we instead choose for “limited” and “targeted” investments in high speed rail, we will be left with nothing but novelty projects and only “limited” and “targeted” benefits for our country. Quite simply, a high speed train in Florida and a high speed train on the Northeast Seaboard does not a foundation make.
This investment in high speed rail will more than pay for itself with the jobs created for Americans in need of work, and opportunities it creates for future growth. According to The United States Conference of Mayors, cities and regions around the country will see job growth from the realization of a high speed rail network, including at least 21,000 estimated new jobs and $1.1 billion in new wages in my home state of New York. As rail lines open and communities are brought closer together, the potential long-term impact of rail service will only grow.
When our nation’s interstate highway system was built, we invested in a transportation network that passed through every state in the union, benefitting commerce and private citizens alike. The interstate highway system project was neither “targeted” nor “limited”; it was a bold step towards an American future, and the investment paid-off. The interstate highway system helped to secure America’s position as the dominant economic world power throughout the remainder of the 20th Century.
Sixty-five years after the passage of legislation to build our interstate highway system, we face another opportunity to boldly win the future. A national high speed rail network is vital to our nation’s success in the global economy, now and in the years to come. I urge my colleagues in Congress, the audience here today and Americans across the country, to support the President’s $53 billion dollar investment, and realize a national high speed rail network in the United States.
Saturday’s tragic events have once again brought our attention to the role of guns in our society. Unlike the weeks and months following similar senseless tragedies at Columbine High School, Virginia Tech, and Wedgewood Baptist Church, we cannot avoid this discussion. From 1999-2010, there were 251 attacks committed with guns at places of worship- the holiest and most peaceful buildings in our land. From 2005-2009, the Congressional Research Services estimates there were 41,037 murders committed with handguns in the United States. These numbers are staggering. We must make our country safe from those who would use guns to attack and kill other human beings.
In our discussion simple questions must be answered. Is the right to bear arms more important than the right to safely go to the grocery store? Does it trump the right to walk down the street? Does it exceed the right to peacefully gather at a place of worship? Is it the individual’s responsibility to escape a bullet, or should we do all we can as a nation to prevent dangerous individuals from easily accessing guns and firing shots?
Guns are a powerful weapon with the potential to take life. We must learn from the tragic events of Saturday and craft legislation that is guided by a simple principle- to keep our nation from ever going through a tragedy like this again. For those who have died in Tucson, and the thousands whose lives have been ended by guns, we must legislate to fix a broken system of laws and prevent future murders.
Republican Majority Must Keep Transparency, Promises to American People
At a time of extraordinary challenge in America, the Republican Party promised to deliver much needed assistance to the American people. Instead, they came to Washington and can’t finish a week of business without violating the Constitution and betraying the public’s trust.
After hosting an exclusive high-priced fundraiser for supporters at the W Hotel on Tuesday night, the Republican majority gathered on the House Floor Thursday morning to read the Constitution aloud. Yet two of the Republican Members to partake in the reading couldn’t follow the most basic of constitutional duties: being sworn-in. When this was revealed, the Republican majority threw their promises of transparency and accountability out the window and attempted to fix the Constitutional violation with a total of 4 minutes of debate.
Despite their efforts to fix the issue and forget it, there continue to be questions about the nature of the event Rep. Sessions and Rep. Fitzgerald were attending. I urge the Republican majority to use their investigative powers to clarify the circumstances surrounding the issue, and take any steps necessary to enforce the ethics of the US House of Representatives. We must not return to the Abramoff age of ethics violations being hidden from public view.
An incredible opportunity for high speed rail in Upstate NY- we need your help!
As many of you know, bringing high speed rail to Upstate New York is one of my highest priorities. Accessibility to the Upstate region is vital to building a new economy in the information age. With a fast, efficient and reliable network of high speed rail, residents, businesses and tourists will be connected to international hubs such as Toronto, Chicago and New York City- improving access to the talented and skilled labor force of our region, generating new tourism opportunities for those who visit, and revitalizing a local transportation network that has been too dependent upon vehicles fueled by foreign oil.
I've long led the campaign for high speed rail in Upstate New York. As a founding member of the Upstate New York Congressional Caucus, I've had the opportunity to oversee the ongoing work to build a high speed rail network. We are continuing to make great progress. In October alone, we:
Secured the funding to begin the planning and design of a new intermodal rail station in Niagara Falls. The new station will connect the region’s existing transportation network with high speed rail.
Completed the demolition of two existing Amtrak-owned building at the Albany/Rensselaer Station. This is an important first step in reconfiguring the Albany/Rensselaer Station and is vital to preparing the region west of Albany for future high speed rail.
Secured over $50 million in additional federal funding for high speed rail projects throughout Upstate New York
Now we have an opportunity to speed up our efforts even more. As many of you know, in Ohio and Wisconsin, the incoming Republican governors have announced that they will not accept federal funding for the development of high speed rail in their states. Their logic is incredibly flawed. They have rejected money that would create much-needed jobs in the construction industry, while building desperately-needed green transportation networks in their regions.
Unlike these leaders, I embrace the opportunity to grow Upstate New York. Earlier this week, Ispoke with U.S. Department of Transportation Deputy Secretary John Porcari, and told him that New York State would like to receive as much of the rejected high-speed rail funding as possible. This money is an especially great opportunity. It was passed as part of the federal stimulus package passed by Congress and signed into law by President Obama in 2009. As such, it has already been allocated by the federal government, and redirecting the funds to New York will not add to the federal deficit.
As Christopher Smith noted in a blog entry on WNYMedia, following my conversation with Deputy Secretary Porcari, a Facebook movement has begun, with many upstate New Yorkers also speaking out in support of high speed rail in our state. I am flattered and energized by the voices of my constituents and residents of Upstate New York calling for high speed rail. I share their knowledge that high speed rail is exactly the kind of investment we need to make in our state and for our economy.
It will take effort on both my part and yours to make high speed rail a reality in New York. On Wednesday, I attended a high speed rail public forum at Monroe Community College and was encouraged by the many voices calling for continued development of high speed rail. If you haven't already done so, you can continue to show your support by joining the Facebook movement, and tell Secretary LaHood we want high speed rail in our state. Alternatively, you can email Secretary LaHood at
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. Now more than ever, your voice is needed to help create the jobs, and build the foundation, of a revitalized economy in Upstate New York.
Slaughter Receives Highest Honor from RIT for her Dedication to Area Students
Rochester, NY –Congresswoman Louise Slaughter (NY-28) was honored today with the highest honor awarded by the Rochester Institute of Technology, the Presidential Medallion, at the Robert F. Panara Theatre on the campus of the National Technical Institute for the Deaf.
Slaughter received the award in appreciation of her efforts to benefit Rochester-area students and residents, especially those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.
The RIT Presidential Medallion has been part of RIT history for the past 30 years and remains one of RIT's most prestigious awards. It is given to individuals, groups or companies that have contributed either continuously or through a single act.
Ending China's Currency Manipulation to Protect American Exports
Today I spoke on the House floor (full video here) about a bill I have co-sponsored to pressure China to end its practice of currency manipulation.
This important piece of legislation is a long overdue step in stopping China’s unfair trade practices. I take this issue very personally since many of my friends and neighbors have been disproportionately hurt by the explosion of cheap foreign imports into the United States.
Recently I’ve been hearing from people who somehow believe that the Republicans have a sensible alternative health care plan. I’d like to set the record straight by telling you a little bit about the proposal from Congressman Paul Ryan, the highest ranking Republican on the House Budget Committee. His plan would gradually eliminate Medicare as we know it, instead providing seniors with an $11,000, income related, risk-adjusted annual payment to purchase a “Medicare Certified” insurance plan.
This Wednesday was National Girls and Women in Sports Day, and I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate the enormous health benefits, both physical and mental, that girls and women gain from participation in sports. From combating obesity, to preventing heart disease, to promoting mental health, regular physical activity has an undeniably positive effect on the health status of girls and women. We need to make an investment in the public health by ensuring that regardless of age or socioeconomic background, girls and women are afforded the opportunities they need to engage in physical activity, whether in school, or their communities.
Escalation is the wrong strategy. It is time to leave Afghanistan.
President Obama has announced his intention to send 30,000 more American combat personnel into Afghanistan, bringing the total number of U.S. troops there to 100,000 by next summer. During his speech, the President failed to set out concrete goals and a firm exit strategy. I cannot support this escalation without those guarantees. I am extremely concerned that Afghanistan will rapidly become one more military quagmire that sacrifices American lives and drains our funds.
Today I joined with members of the House Trade Working Group to strongly urge a new direction in United States trade policy ahead of the WTO Ministerial Conference in Geneva on November 30th.
My district has seen more than its share of job losses as a result of unfair foreign competition and dumping. Once-great companies have downsized, moved to China and other countries, or simply closed their doors leaving people struggling to make ends meet. The ripple effect on small local businesses has resulted in even more job losses which is not anything Western New York can afford right now.
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