Congressman Larry Kissell joined 23 other Democrats and 167 Republicans in opposing HR 1106 Thursday evening, citing concerns that there shouldn't be a housing plan that has bankruptcy as a centerpiece.

"In North Carolina around three percent of mortgages are seriously delinquent and I just don't believe it sends the right message to the 97 percent of folks who are tightening their belts and struggling to pay their bills on time in this hard economic situation we are in," said Kissell.

"I want to encourage my constituents to call my district offices just as soon as they sense a problem with their mortgages. We'll be working case by case to get them help."

Kissell affirmed that he understands some people and businesses do find themselves with no other option and that he supports them having the ability to reorganize, even though he doesn't support this expansion of the bankruptcy laws already on the books.

"I'm very pleased that there are initiatives under way that will allow those who may be facing problems with their mortgage to get assistance through the Department of Housing and Urban Development. My office can put troubled homeowners in touch with the resources they need and help prevent families who are trying to keep their homes from ever entering the bankruptcy system," said Kissell.

On Friday morning, Kissell said he thought HR 1106 would send the wrong message and that he would focus on doing something for those in the district who continue to sacrifice to make their mortgage payments on time.

"We have so many Americans who have been paying their mortgage on time and I believe those who have struggled to play by the rules deserve some incentive to continue. I am proud to be the first member of Congress to cosponsor a bill introduced by Republican Congressman Bill Shuster which grants a $5,000 tax credit to citizens who have made their monthly mortgage payments on time."

HR 1317 would reward current mortgage holders of a principle residence with this tax credit if the holder provides certification from the lender that they are not delinquent in their payments.

"The misfortune of many Americans suffering from the housing market is troubling, and they will be assisted through this crisis. But then we should also acknowledge and reward the tens of millions more who are managing to stay faithful in their payments," Kissell concluded.

HR 1106 passed the House 234 to 191. It will now go to the Senate for consideration.

In addition to the struggling economy to deal with, Kissell is serving on both Armed Services and Agriculture committees.

"If it were just the economy, it would be extremely difficult, but we've got so many other pressing issues, such as Afghanistan and our troop readiness, veterans and our National Guard," Kissell said.

"With all this, we're really focused on helping our district and encourage the people to call us for help."

For help, call Kissell's offices in Concord at (704) 786-1612, Rockingham at (910) 997-2070 or Fayetteville at (910) 920-2070.