Priorities

Empowering Local Governments and Communities
 
The Western Caucus is committed to Empowering Local Governments and Communities: Westerners believe that state and local governments are better suited to deal with local issues than a distant, out-of-touch federal government. State and local governments are closer to the people, more responsive to citizens, and better equipped for representing their constituents on many important issues.
 
Promoting Economic Growth
 
The Western Caucus is committed to Promoting Economic Growth as well as Healthy and Sustainable Communities: The Western United States like much of the country is experiencing the challenges presented by the economic downturn. Large federal land holdings, coupled with restrictive government mandates stifle economic growth, hinders job creation, drives up the cost of living and impairs funding for public education due to diminished tax receipts coming from private land. Members of the Western Caucus will work to eliminate federal impediments to economic growth.
 
Achieving National Energy Independence
 
The Western Caucus is committed to Achieving National Energy Independence: During the 110th Congress, the Western Caucus championed the first comprehensive energy bill. This bill became the basis for the comprehensive bill put forward by Republican leadership. A revised and expanded version of this bill was introduced in the 112th Congress, the Roadmap for America's Energy Future. The Western Caucus believes America must increase its energy independence through the environmentally responsible development of ALL domestic energy resources. Energy independence is a vital component of our national security, and therefore, government agencies acknowledge and consider any and all efforts to increase our independence with the same priority as any other national security issue.  In the 113th, the Western Caucus will continue to develop a comprehensive energy policy.
 
Protecting Private Property
 
The Western Caucus is committed to fighting for the Protection of Private Property rights, which are the foundation of a free society. The Western Caucus strongly believes that the federal government should be required to compensate property owners when regulations deprive them of the use of their property. Legislation that protects property owners from federal government “takings” through excessive regulation reflects the Constitution and helps to ensure a better environment.