Washington, DC, Oct 23, 2006 - Representative John Carter (TX-R-31) was honored by Property Rights Alliance (PRA) with its Congressional “Protector of Property Rights” award at a private ceremony in the U.S. Capitol. The property rights organization presents the award to members of the House of Representatives who vote along with the property rights community on at least 83 percent of the issues scored by PRA.

“These key votes were the most vital to the property rights community in the second session of the 109^th Congress,” said Scott A. LaGanga, executive director of Property Rights Alliance. “The property rights community, composed of stakeholders in the defense of both intellectual and physical property rights, can identify which Members are their allies. Representative Carter is more than an ally in this battle; Representative Carter is a ‘Protector’.”

Votes rated by PRA for the second session included the Oman Free Trade Agreement (which included significant intellectual property protections), an amendment on “network neutrality,” and the Oberstar Amendment on Appropriations for the Department of the Interior regarding “navigable waters.” The property rights organization also double-rated a vote to eliminate the estate tax and against final passage of the Horse Protection Act, which recently passed the House.

“For the 109^th Congress, we are proud to present the “Protector of Property Rights Award” to deserving members of the United States Congress,” continued LaGanga. “Whether they are rockers or ranchers, property owners deserve to know who has worked to protect their property rights. Representative Carter is a true champion of private property rights, and Property Rights Alliance offers its thanks and congratulations.”