-- Randy’s Roundup --

A Weekly Newsletter from Congressman Randy Neugebauer

October 4, 2010

A Lack of Clarity

Are you concerned about the impact of the January 1st tax hikes on your family or business? Or do you think the federal government needs to cut back on spending and borrowing in the coming year? Like many of you in West Texas and the Big Country, looming tax increases and the massive amount of borrowing and spending by the federal government are two issues weighing on my mind. Last week, Congress left town until November without doing anything to address either of these looming problems. It turns out that Speaker Pelosi and her Democrat Majority would rather head home to campaign for over a month than vote to provide this needed certainty for the American people. Congress isn’t even scheduled to return to Washington until November 15th.

The amount of uncertainty facing the American people is hurting this county. There is uncertainty in the tax forecast and the regulatory environment and uncertainty created by the new health care law and unprecedented levels of national debt. The 2011 Fiscal Year began October 1st, but Congress hasn’t even passed a budget. Instead of taking the time to plan for the coming year and laying out effective ways to cut spending, the Democrat Leadership pushed a bill through that will allow the government to continue operating and spending until December. All Congress has done is continue the uncertainty. Taxpayers and business owners are looking for clarity, but they won’t find it anytime soon.

When taxes are set to increase by $3.9 billion and we have amassed a federal deficit over $1 trillion, business as usual is unacceptable. Instead of going home, Congress should be in session working to permanently extend tax relief to all taxpayers and formulating a budget that will start to cut wasteful spending. House Republicans have pledged to do this, and you can be certain I will continue to push for the kind of fiscal responsibility and tax policy that will help turn this economy around. As I travel around the 19th District during the coming weeks, I’m looking forward to talking with many of you about these important issues.

October is Crime Prevention Month

In 1984, October was designated as National Crime Prevention Month. Throughout this month, we highlight the many crime prevention efforts taking place by individuals, communities and law enforcement throughout the nation. Our nation’s law enforcement officers help to keep our communities safe. During this month especially, I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to the law enforcement professionals who give so much to keep us safe.

Over the last several years, our nation has seen a great deal of uncertainty sweep through the economy. Many issues have divided Congress, but crime prevention is one issue that can bring everyone in the community together.  In today’s difficult environment, crime prevention is a community affair. Whether you’re at home or traveling, remain vigilant of your surroundings and report any suspicious activities. I encourage you to join with your neighbors around the 19th District to take an active role in building safer communities not only during this month, but throughout the year.

 “Question of the Week”

Would the travel alert recently issued by the State Department discourage you from traveling to Europe in the near future?

Please visit my website to submit your answer to this week’s question.