112th Congress

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after voting against tax increases included in the so-called "fiscal cliff deal":

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after supporting legislation to overturn the recent executive order from President Barack Obama removing the pay freeze for federal worke

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the state of Louisiana will received a temporary deferment allowing federal age

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after expressing concern over the well-being of an unjustly imprisoned United States Marine, Jon M. Hammar, in a Mexican jail:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after having important maritime language inserted in the Coast Guard Reauthorization bill:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after joining with 60 colleagues in the House of Representatives and sending a bipartisan letter to the Army Corps of Engineers, requesti

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (South Louisiana) issued the following statement in response to news today of the recent unrest in the Middle East:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (South Louisiana) issued the following statement in response to the announcement by the U.S. Department of Justice that British Petroleum Exploration and Production Inc. (BP) agreeing to p

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after he sent a letter to Speaker of the House John Boehner earlier today regarding recent comments made in an interview with journalis

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after the Korean government announced it halted prohibition on the bidding and sale of American-grown rice:

(Washington, DC) - Reps. Phil Gingrey, M.D., and Charles Boustany, M.D., (R-La.), today released a memo challenging the AARP's reaction to last night's presidential debate: On AARP's response:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after the ExxonMobil Corporation announced it will expand its high-performance synthetic lubricants capacity in Louisiana:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after recently sending a letter to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Thomas Vilsack regarding newly implemented r

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after presenting a copy of the Congressional Record honoring Mr. Raymond Duhon for receiving the Congressional Gold Medal on June 27th a

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after teaming with the City of Crowley in securing and claiming $600,000.00 in funding to develop an Interstate 10 service road between

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after attending the United States Post Office dedication ceremony honoring Abbeville Vietnam War Hero, Sergeant Richard Franklin Abshire

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after receiving overwhelming support from colleagues by securing more than 218 cosponsors, a number needed for passage in the U.S. Hous

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3409, the Stop the War on Coal Act:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the STEM Jobs Act, eliminating the diversity lottery green card program by reallocating

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H. J. Res. 118, disapproving of the Obama Administration's waiver of work requiremen

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the Congressional Budget Office announced that 5.9 million American households will be forced to pay a new Obamacare mandate t

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after recently writing separate letters to Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Eric Shinseki and House Leadership, Speaker John Boehner

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the City of Carencro and the United States Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) recently partnered in moving forward with the ongoi

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement today after sending a letter to House Majority Leader Eric Cantor requesting an in-person meeting to voice concern over the upcoming

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement today after the House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed H.R. 6213, the No More Solyndras Act: "This legislation ensures taxpayer

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the House of Representatives voted to pass the Stolen Valor Act of 2011, H.R. 1775, by a vote of 410-3:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced a grant is being awarded to the University of Louisiana at Lafayett

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after receiving the Guardian of Small Business Award from the National Federation of Independent Business, the nation's leading

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after the House Ways and Means Committee markup of H.J. Res. 118, "Providing for Congressional Disapproval of the Administration's

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement today condemning the attack on the U.S. consulate in Libya by violent protesters where four Americans were killed, including U.S. Ambas

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Transportation announced a grant is being awarded to the Lafayette Regional Airport Commission in the a

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Oversight, issued the following statement after today's Oversight subcommittee hearing on the Internal Reven

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after BP announced it has agreed to sell its interests in a number of oil and gas fields in the deepwater of the US Gulf of Mexico to P

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement marking the 11th anniversary of the al Qaeda terrorist attacks on the United States: "Eleven years ago today, our nation's resol

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after sending a letter to the head of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Secretary Eric Shinseki, outlining gr

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after the Bureau of Labor Statistics released the August unemployment report earlier today:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu recently announced the Department of Energy would tap the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and len

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after being awarded the American Farm Bureau Federation's "Friend of Farm Bureau" congressional award. Congressman Boustany was hon

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement in response to the national debt surpassing the $16 trillion mark: "This Administration has done its best to set records: record hig

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement celebrating September as National Rice Month: "Serving as a hub of America's rice production, South Louisiana knows the importan

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after the Louisiana Governor's Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness announced residents in areas affected by Hurric

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after Hurricane Isaac made its way ashore from the Gulf of Mexico into South Louisiana: "This morning, I spent time visiting the Laf

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after visiting the Calcasieu Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness in Lake Charles yesterday. Congressman Boustany addressed emergenc

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement as Tropical Storm Isaac continues moving closer toward South Louisiana: "As Tropical Storm Isaac churns in the Gulf of Mexico making

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after Golden Pass Products LLC (Golden) recently filed an application with the United States Department of Energy to export liquid natu

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after sending Congressman Jeff Miller, Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs, a letter with the latest updates regarding

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after a comprehensive national survey of outdoor recreation showed a sharp increase in the number of hunters and anglers across the cou

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration (ITA) recently announced Louisiana merchandise exports i

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after President Obama recently signed into law legislation to designate the "Sergeant Richard Franklin Abshire Post Office" in Abbeville

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after the Louisiana Department of Transportation received two grants for projects in the District. The Creole Nature Trail received a g

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after the House of Representatives approved H.R. 8, the Job Protection and Recession Prevention Act of 2012. This legislation extends t

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after an Obama Administration rule addressing contraception coverage took effect on August 1st. The rule requires most health insurance

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after recently introducing H.R. 6176, the Aligning Incentives for Better Patient Care Act:

(Washington, DC) – The office of Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) announced the Deepwater Horizon Settlement Economic and Prosperity Damages toll-free help line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week with live op

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 459, the Federal Reserve Transparency Act, to permit and mandate a full audit of the United States Federa

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after sending President Barack Obama a letter expediting port projects in the state while addressing dredging issues across the country

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 4157, the Preserving America's Family Farms Act, which blocks federal regulations li

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL) received a grant of $456,291.00 from the Federal Transit Administration:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after a group of researchers from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette recently received a grant of $1,500,620.00 from the U.S. Dep

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after hosting a press conference this morning on Capitol Hill to discuss the newly introduced bill: the No Show, No Pay Act, H.R. 60

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after receiving another monthly update from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) since the announced delay of the upgraded

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr. M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after the City of Sulphur received a grant of $17,591 through the 2012 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Program:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after the Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management Act (FARRM) successfully passedinthe House Committee on Agriculture and will no

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after voting to repeal Obamacare earlier this afternoon. The bill passed with bipartisan support by a vote of 244-185:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after introducing H.R. 6085, the "No Show, No Pay" Act, legislation holding Members of Congress accountable to constituents by docking p

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the Conference Report to H.R. 4348. The legislation reauthorizes federal surface transportation programs and ex

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement to announce the passage of H.R. 3412, to designate the "Sergeant Richard Franklin Abshire Post Office" in Abbeville, Louisiana. The leg

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) voted to hold Attorney General Eric Holder in contempt of Congress for his refusal to be truthful and accountable in the investigation of Operation Fast and Furious.

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after reviewing the US Supreme Court decision on President Obama's healthcare proposal:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement today after the House passed the Domestic Energy and Jobs Act, a package of seven domestic energy production bills: "House Republ

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the Lafayette Airport Commission received a grant in the amount of $3,194,550.00 to improve the Lafayette Airport runway safet

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after today's 39 million acre Central Gulf of Mexico Lease Sale 216/222 in New Orleans: "With over $1.7 billion in total high

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after speaking on the House floor earlier today in favor of the rule for H.R. 4480, the Domestic Energy and Jobs Act: "The sad fac

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement today after sending a letter to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Eric Shinseki asking for a swiftly appointed replacemen

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), a member of the House Rice Caucus, released the following statement after signing a letter urging inclusion of key policy provisions critical to the rice industry of

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the House voted to pass the Protect Medical Innovation Act of 2011, H.R. 436, earlier today. This bill contained H.R. 1004, th

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the House voted to pass the FY 2013 Energy & Water Appropriations bill. This bill continues to ignore South Louisiana's co

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), issued the following statement today after the House Ways and Means Committee markup of H.R. 436, "Protect Medical Innovation Act of 2011," H.R. 5842, "Restoring Acc

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farm Service Agency (FSA) announced the St. Mary's Parish FSA will remain open:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), issued the following statement as the search for local UL-Lafayette student, Michaela "Mickey" Shunick, continues: "I encourage all parties in the community to g

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), issued the following statement after the Ports Association of Louisiana in conjunction with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development released an ec

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement today to commemorate National Maritime Day: "Louisiana is a maritime state.Few regions in the country utilize and have as deep an

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after receiving the second monthly update from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) since the announced delay of the upgrad

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after co-signing a letter to keep excessive costs and burdens down for small, South Louisiana agricultural businesses that depend up

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after fellow House Ways & Means Subcommittee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) held a Subcommittee on Trade hearing focused on three criti

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after introducing H.R. 5708, the Preventing Recurring Trade Evasion and Circumvention Act, or "PROTECT Act," with Congressman Cedric

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after recently being named an "ACU Conservative" for the first session of the 112th Congress by the American Conservative Union. The

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after addressing a letter with Congressman Joe Courtney (D-Connecticut) and 75 bipartisan colleagues to the House conferees on the t

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement today after Sempra Energy's LNG operations recently announced it moved one step closer toward developing a $6 billion liquefied

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement today after a new report prepared for House Committee on Ways & Means Chairman Dave Camp (R-MI) compiled data from Fortune 100 compa

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement today after the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Region 6 Administrator, Al Armendariz, resigned recently after making di

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement today after the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Region 6 Administrator, Al Armendariz, resigned recently after making di

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement today after sending a letter to President Obama in support of the State of Louisiana's request for a major disaster declaration

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) recently held a technical workshop in New Orleans with industry operators to faci

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) recently sent representatives to the Mr. Charlie rig museum in Morga

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the House Ways & Means Subcommittee on Oversight held a hearing today on the impact of limitations on the use of tax-advantage

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the voice of small business, recently rated Members of Congress based

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after selecting this year's winner for the annual Congressional Art Competition. The winning submission, titled "Hannah Walters,

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement today commemorating the second anniversary of the Deepwater Horizon Tragedy which took the lives of eleven men:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the House of Representatives voted to pass the Small Business Tax Cut Act of 2012, legislation providing a 20% tax deduction f

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after receiving the first monthly update from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) since the announced delay of the upgrade

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement today after adding the Boustany Amendment to H.R. 4348, The Highway Bill. The Boustany Amendment is a modified version of H.R. 104,

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement today after the Deepwater Horizon's Natural Resource Trustees announced major progress in the Gulf Coast restoration effort. As

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the House Rules Committee approved a rule on the House's 90-day surface transportation extension which includes the Bousta

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after voting in favor of the Sportsmen's Heritage Act of 2012, H.R. 4089, which will protect and enhance opportunities for recre

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), Chairman of the House Ways & Means Subcommittee on Oversight, issued the following statement on Tax Day: "As America's hard-working taxpayers file their taxe

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) approved a proposal by Sabine Pass Liquefaction, LLC and Sabine Pass LNG, L.P.

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after testifying earlier today in front of the Louisiana House Health and Welfare Committee in support of Louisiana House Bill (HB)

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the United States' combined federal-state corporate tax rate recently gained the unenviable distinction of becoming the hi

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the Housing Authority of the City of Lafayette received a grant of $94,818.00 through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced a $1,460,543.00 federal gr

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement today after supporting federal spending constraints by voting in favor of both H. Con. Res. 112 – the Paul Ryan Budget for 2013

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after cosponsoring H. Con. Res. 110, a resolution limiting the broad expansion and overreach of presidential power. This resolution i

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after opposing counsels concluded arguments regarding the constitutionality of Obamacare before the Supreme Court yesterday: "The

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement today after submitting written testimony to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. The Committee, today, held a hearing entit

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement today marking the two-year anniversary of President Obama's overreaching federal health care law - a law that has looted Medicare

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement today after the House Ways & Means Subcommittee on Oversight held a hearing on the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), its operations and

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement today after the House of Representatives voted to pass the bipartisan Protecting Access to Healthcare (PATH) Act which repeals the In

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after meeting with officials from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) today in Washington. Boustany discussed the recent letter

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after recently being selected Legislator of the Year for 2012 by the American Ambulance Association. The award was presented in Washi

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives earlier today to promote the cause of veterans in South Louisiana against the broken promises of Washington. The f

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), announced a $667,324 grant was recently awarded to LEEVAC Shipyards in Jennings, LA for a pipe and tube bending system.

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after meeting with veterans' groups from Lafayette and Lake Charles this week. Boustany updated the groups on the Department of

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., MD, (R-LA), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Oversight of the Committee on Ways and Means, today announced that the Subcommittee will hold a hearing on the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") and the 20

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement commemorating the 7th anniversary of Lebanon's Cedar Revolution:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced a severe setback regarding the progress of South Louisiana's VA Communit

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after Acadiana C.A.R.E.S. Inc., received a grant of $215,017.00 through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after nominating two local leaders, Administrator Tina Horn of Cameron Parish and Director Dick Gremillion of Calcasieu Parish's

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in conjunction with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after today's Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) hearing on Capitol Hill titled, "The Securities Investor Protect

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-LA), and Congressman Joe Courtney (D-CT) issued the following joint statement after co-authoring a bipartisan letter to the House Budget Committee requesting full allocation of Harbor

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 4105, to apply the countervailing duty provisions of the Tariff Act of 1930 to nonmarket economy countries, and

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana), today announced his office is accepting submissions for the 31st annual Congressional Art Competition:

(Washington, DC) - Today, Subcommittee on Oversight Chairman Charles Boustany (R-LA) sent a letter to Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Shulman requesting a complete response to a previous request on general information on the tax-exempt sector,

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after the House Energy and Commerce Health subcommittee recently voted to repeal Obamacare's Independent Payment Advisory Board (

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement today after repairs to the Leland Bowman Lock gates, located in Vermilion Parish, commenced and were reinstalled:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after the Welfare Integrity Now (WIN) for Children and Families Act,was passed by the Senate:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement today after becoming an original cosponsor of the "Shield Small Businesses from the H-2B Rule," a Congressional resolution of disapprov

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement today after the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced a grant totaling $4.7 million was awarded to Cameron Parish to r

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement earlier today marking the third anniversary of the President's failed stimulus plan: "Today marks the three year anniversary of

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after today's bipartisan, bicameral Respect for Rights of Conscience Act press conference held on Capitol Hill:

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after cosponsoring the Energizing America through Employment Act. The bipartisan bill will allow for construction to begin on the Keystone XL

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement today after the United States Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) allocated additional funding in the amount of $400,000 for the Southwest Louisi

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement today after meeting with James Watson, Director of the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement:

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after passage of legislation he introduced, the Welfare Integrity Now (WIN) for Children and Families Act (H.R. 3567), passed the House of R

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after legislation he introduced H.R. 1173, the Fiscal Responsibility and Retirement Security Act of 2011 (CLASS Repeal Act):

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after holding a House Ways & Means Oversight Subcommittee hearing on the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund and Maritime Tax Issues earlier

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement as the President's self-imposed deadline to turn the economy around expired today:

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after speaking today on the House floor urging Members to join him in supporting legislation he introduced, H.R. 1173 - the Fiscal Responsib

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., (R-South Louisiana), released the following statement after Senator David Vitter (R-Louisiana) joined other Senators to introduce legislation asserting congressional rights to approve the Key

(Washington, DC) - House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Oversight Chairman Charles Boustany, Jr, MD (R-LA) and Subcommittee on Select Revenue Measures Chairman Pat Tiberi (R-OH) today announced the Subcommittees will hold a hearing on harbor maintenance f

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after tonight's State of the Union address given by President Barack Obama:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after joining with Congressmen Ted Poe (R-Texas) and Dan Boren (D-Oklahoma) and a bipartisan coalition of Congressional Members to introdu

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after meeting on Capitol Hill this morning with students from the Saint Edmund Catholic School in Eunice. The students were in town to par

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after the Obama Administration rejected the permit allowing the Keystone XL pipeline to bring energy resources and jobs to America:

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after the House Ways & Means Committee voted to approve H.R. 1173, "The Fiscal Responsibility and Retirement Security Act of 2011." A

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Representative Charles W. Boustany, Jr., (R-South Louisiana), today announced his office is accepting applications for summer internships in his Washington, DC office: "Internships are an excellent opportunity for young a

Members Identify Additional Concerns Regarding AARP's Tax-Exempt Status and Business Relationships

Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after receiving positive assurances from Major General Merdith "Bo" Temple, Acting Chief of Engineers and Jo-Ellen Darcy, Assistant Secretary of the United St

Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after leading a bipartisan letter to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) encouraging President Obama to ful

Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after the University of Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin' Cajuns football team defeated the San Diego State Aztecs in Saturday's R+L Carriers New Orleans Bow

Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the Disaster Relief Appropriations Act 2012, H.R. 3672: "This bill ensures families and communities hit by natural disasters receiv

Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after voting against the Consolidated Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2012,H.R. 2055: "This massive $914.8 billion bill fails to fully address the nece

Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after recently cosponsoring the Second Amendment Protection Act (H.R. 3594): "I refuse to support efforts by the United Nations and this Administration to

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after speaking with Major General Merdith "Bo" Temple, Chief of Engineers and Acting Commanding General of the United States Army Corps of

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2011: "While this bill is imperfect, I am

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazarannounced the first offshore oil and gas lease sale in the Western Gulf of Mexico will take place

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after the Jefferson Davis Electric Co-op Inc. received a grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Manage

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after he voted to approve the Farm Dust Regulation Prevention Act (H.R. 1633) today: "Today's bipartisan legislation ensures the En

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee held a full committee hearing today titled, "Restoring Jobs, Coastal Viability a

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after introducing the Welfare Integrity Now (WIN) for Children and Families Act (H.R. 3567). Designed to stop waste, fraud, and abuse within

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after the United States Department of Labor announced a net total of 120,000 jobs were created and the unemployment rate for the month of

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after Sasol, a South African energy and chemicals company, announced today it has approved a feasibility study for a world class ethylene

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after signing a letter urging the Securities Investor Protection Corporation's (SIPC) Chairman Orlan Johnson to enhance efforts to bring

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement in reaction to the Balance Budget Amendment to the Constitution vote: "This vote would have moved our country closer to preventing the r

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after voting against H.R. 2112, the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2012. The legislation would provide short-te

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement urging Attorney General Eric Holder to resign immediately: "Attorney General Eric Holder has failed to uphold the duties of his office

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after the House passed H.R. 674, to Repeal of 3 Percent Withholding Provision on Government Contractors: "This bipartisan supported legisla

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) released the following statement after the NAT GAS Act of 2011 was introduced by a bipartisan group of senators earlier today: "This legislation moves our nation one step

Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 2838, the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2011: "I am pleased to have voted in favor of the Not

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) applauded the arrival of Rear Admiral James A. Watson IV as the new Director of the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE). BSEE was one of the two agencies

Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana), issued the following statement in response to the Supreme Court's decision to hear the case challenging the constitutionality of the president's health care law: "The president

"With our ports, Louisiana is a leader in trade, as the state exported more than $40 billion in goods last year. Louisiana is a maritime state and our businesses and farmers stand to gain tremendously from these agreements. Delays in passage of these ag

"We are one step closer to an expanded and improved VA Clinic for the Lafayette and Acadiana area. However, the delay on the Lake Charles CBOC is concerning and I am dedicated to working with the veterans in the Calcasieu area to break through any delays and impediments. I will carefully and closely monitor the situation to make sure the VA is taking the necessary steps to set up the Lake Charles clinic. The debt we owe our nation's veterans is tremendous, as they risked their lives to protect our freedoms. Access to quality health care is critical for all veterans in South Louisiana."

"With so much uncertainty from Washington and no clear energy strategy for this country, I urge the Administration to move forward on this important project. Further delays will slow job growth in Louisiana. The United States has an abundance of natural resources to be utilized in both foreign and domestic markets."

"Louisianans know natural gas will be an important part of our transition to new fuel sources for the 21st century. In addition to natural gas, we must ensure that traditional energy sources are affordable and innovative technologies are allowed to flourish. Yet the Administration continues to advocate for job-killing tax hikes on American energy producers."

"This grant provides safety improvements to strengthen the Lafayette Regional Airport and help position Lafayette as an economic leader in the state," Boustany said. "Jobs remain my top priority, and infrastructure improvements will play a crucial role in boosting economic activity in South Louisiana."

"The fact is it will be less expensive for employers to pay the penalty and not offer coverage than to offer health-care coverage. Ironically, the employer mandate incentivizes employers to stop offering health-care coverage. It's time we repeal this provision."

In a letter to President Obama, U.S. Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., MD (R-South Louisiana) today highlighted the job creation opportunities from increased drilling and energy production. Boustany demanded the inclusion of an expeditious and consistent permitting process in Obama's jobs proposal to Congress.

"Today, we remember the nearly 3,000 men, women and children who died on September 11, 2001. There are many courageous people from that day, and we grieve and pray with those who mourn the loss of their loved ones."

"Job creation is my top priority. An overly complex tax code, bureaucratic ambiguity, and burdensome regulations are the biggest obstacles for job growth. The Obama Administration has created today's environment where small and large businesses continue to struggle and are reluctant to hire or expand. The President's proposal for more failed stimulus spending isn't a serious or credible solution.

"Rabbit Island and other restoration projects demonstrate we can use our own resources to restore our wetlands and develop habitats for wildlife across South Louisiana. As Louisiana's strongest advocate for coastal restoration, I spearheaded efforts to improve our coastal areas, including the Southwest Coastal Louisiana Study,the first comprehensive hurricane protection and coastal restoration plan in Vermilion, Cameron and Calcasieu Parishes. I will continue to lead this fight to protect our wetlands and rebuild our coast."

"These forums have been excellent opportunities over the years to speak directly with local farmers and hear their needs and concerns. I remain committed to supporting our farming communities, which are so vital to Louisiana."

"I congratulate the University of Louisiana at Lafayette for earning this award. Education is vital in preparing our next generation of leaders to guide the future of Louisiana and our local communities. Louisiana educators are dedicated to their profession and this program will improve and enhance their skills in order to better prepare them for the challenges of educating and guiding our children in an increasingly competitive environment."

"Our efforts to bring DC and Gulf Coast regulators together with energy producers in the same room have finally paid off. I am glad everyone is now coming to the table to resolve choke points in the regulatory process. For nine months I've been fighting to have this request granted. I am hopeful today's workshop will provide clarity and guidance for energy producers and small businesses to expedite restoration of American energy production in the Gulf back to early 2010 levels and provide future domestic growth. I am committed to pursuing all avenues to eliminate bureaucratic delays so we see vibrant growth in American energy production and jobs."

"Our transportation infrastructure is vital to economic growth in South Louisiana. This grant will improve drainage and strengthen the basic infrastructure of the Le Gros Memorial Airport. I applaud the Acadia Parish Police Jury for their support of the airport and their vision to make these improvements."

U.S. Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., MD (R-South Louisiana) will host a town hall meeting in Crowley on Wednesday, August 24 from 2:00-3:00 PM.

"The time has come for the voices of the Syrian people to be heard. The violent and deadly attacks by President Assad on his own people demonstrate his inability to lead his nation and be a credible world leader."

"Director Bromwich would immediately help to put Louisianans back to work by supporting the extension of oil and gas leases negatively affected by the drilling moratorium and the new excessive, cumbersome and job-killing permitting process. The new lease sale is a small step in utilizing our domestic resources but it pales in comparison to the damage done by the drilling moratorium and the lack of certainty for energy producers and small businesses when weighing investment and hiring decisions."

"This declaration guarantees the required aid will promptly reach Louisiana. The Mississippi and Atchafalaya Rivers put South Louisiana at risk of major flooding. This year, we saw some of the highest water levels in recent memory."

"This grant will help St. Landry Parish prepare for storms and secure critical infrastructure for its residents and first responders. I am committed to the improvement of vital emergency facilities in our area so our communities are prepared for future storms and other threats to homeland security."

"We are making progress to ensure veterans across South Louisiana receive the care they deserve. This announcement is welcome news for veterans and their families throughout South Louisiana. I am committed to working closely with veterans groups in the area to improve their access to vital health care services."

"From day one, I insisted any increase in the debt ceiling must be coupled with spending cuts exceeding the increase in the debt limit. For the third time in as many weeks, the House of Representatives voted responsibly to protect the economy. We approved legislation cutting spending to force Washington to protect and conserve taxpayer dollars. My vote tonight was the right thing to do for the people of Louisiana and for America."

"This legislation conforms to the Cut, Cap and Balance principles and begins the process of putting our fiscal house in order. Democrats have not put forth a plan and instead continue to play political games. This bill has significant and immediate cuts, creates a long-term plan to reduce the national debt and requires passage of the balanced budget amendment. This is a solid first step toward resolving the debt crisis threatening our national security and economic recovery."

"This hearing is a continuation of the Subcommittee's oversight of the IRS and the alarming rates of tax noncompliance. With so many Americans relying on paid professionals to prepare their returns, it is critical that we better understand what the IRS is doing and what impact the new regulations will have on taxpayers, paid tax return preparers, and tax compliance."

"This vote demonstrates Republicans understand we must put our fiscal house in order. We have presented a bold, credible strategy to pull America back from the brink of financial calamity, while Democrats want to raise taxes and risk another recession."

"Louisiana is rapidly becoming a global trading leader and I will continue my efforts to ensure this trend continues. Today's news is proof of our need to immediately implement the pending free trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea to open new markets to manufacturers and farmers."

"I congratulate the University of Louisiana at Lafayette for attaining this award. The technologies this program will study and develop are valuable in many fields, including earth exploration and software development. It is a prime example of multilateral cooperation toward a common goal of bettering the scientific community."

"The legislation ensures a better system is in place to help residents in the future in dealing with hurricanes, flooding and natural disasters. This bill guarantees the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) will continue to provide additional assistance. Louisiana residents understand the need to prepare for flooding."

"The code presents a burden for small businesses, families and individuals around the country and in Louisiana. The Ways and Means Committee has held several hearings this year to explore the technical aspects of the code and learn more about the best ways to enact meaningful improvements. Reforming the tax code will be a lengthy process, but we must get it right. I appreciate the efforts of Chairman Camp and Senator Baucus to hold this important hearing."

"This amendment is a short-term step to close a gap in South Louisiana's dredging needs. Adequately dredging our ports and waterways ensures a safe and efficient flow of agricultural commodities and manufactured products, and it will help create jobs. I encourage rapid passage of The RAMP Act, H.R. 104 which is a long-term solution to address the critical shortfall in dredging."

"Louisiana's economy depends on our waterways. Dredging and maintaining coastal harbors and ports is absolutely critical to bolstering trade, creating jobs and strengthening American competitiveness. This bill creates the fully-funded, long-term dredging plan necessary for realizing our economic potential not only in Louisiana, but across the country."

"These trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea will promote exports of American goods and services, and create good, high-paying jobs for Louisianans. Louisiana is a maritime state and our businesses and farmers stand to gain tremendously from these agreements. With our ports, Louisiana is a leader in trade, as the state exported more than $40 billion in goods last year. Implementation of the pending agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea will play a large role in getting our nation's economy back on track."

"Protecting American jobs is crucial to restoring this nation's economic prosperity. This bill demands the EPA adjust and develop rules regarding boilers and incinerators. Current regulations endanger thousands of manufacturing jobs across the country and in Louisiana. The legislation provides for the immediate rewrite of these impractical, expensive and unnecessary regulations."

"Our coast is vital to our state's economy and heritage, and supports countless jobs throughout Louisiana. We must continue to protect and restore these lands for future generations. I will continue the fight in Washington to rebuild our coastal marshes and wetlands."

"I am pleased Rep. Richmond signed on in support of legislation vital not only to Louisiana, but all ports, harbors, and waterways across our country. Dredging and maintaining our waterways is absolutely critical to bolstering trade and strengthening American competitiveness. I encourage other members concerned about job growth in our country to sign on."

"It is absolutely wrong to use oil from the SPR when American energy production is down by a quarter of a million barrels a day in the Gulf of Mexico. This is an ill-advised, desperate political move by this Administration which will have no lasting effects on the economy. Releasing 30 million barrels of oil from our strategic reserves will do nothing to spur long-term economic growth. With its actions, the Administration proves yet again it has no meaningful energy policy for this country and has no serious plan to fix our economy."

"We are determined to get our domestic energy production up and running again, despite the obstruction of the Obama Administration. This legislation allows for the production of up to one million barrels of oil per day and the creation of new American jobs. Despite the administration's hostile actions toward American energy producers, including the moratorium in the Gulf, I am determined to push for policies that promote American energy production, create jobs and reduce our dependence on foreign oil."

"Without immediate action from this Congress, the disastrous policies of this Administration will bankrupt the program and leave our children and grandchildren with nothing."

"Hope is a great addition to my Washington staff. This experience provides her the opportunity to learn the legislative process and assist the many Southwest Louisiana residents who visit our office every day. Hope is a bright student and I look forward to following her success in the coming years."

"U.S. policy toward Lebanon must be consistent with our core values and national security interests. This legislation follows those principles by ensuring no taxpayer money will benefit Hezbollah. I have serious and grave concerns about the composition of the Lebanese Cabinet and the direction they may take the country. The situation remains fluid, and I will monitor developments to ensure the new government's actions are not contrary to U.S. national interests. Furthermore, this government must be willing and able to work with its neighboring countries to promote peace and stability in the region."

"After many bureaucratic delays, the wheels of justice are finally moving on this case. I have advocated on behalf of the victims of this massive Ponzi scheme, and our efforts in Washington have finally paid off. I am pleased the SEC took the actions necessary to compensate the victims of this scheme."

"Protecting our coastal wetlands is crucial to Southwest Louisiana. Every element of these ecosystems is critical to their survival. I will continue to fight in Washington to restore and rebuild these wetlands and protect them for future generations."

"Social Security issued at least $8 billion in improper payments in fiscal year 2010. According to GAO and the Social Security Inspector General, this number does not capture the full extent of overpayments. Regardless of whether a payment occurs because of simple error or outright fraud, improper payments harm Social Security programs in the long term, jeopardizing benefits for those who may need them in the future. They also cost taxpayers billions of dollars each year."

"We must continue to fight the Administration for the answers they are unwilling to provide. These nominees should be withheld until the SEC answers the questions I've asked on behalf of the victims of this scheme. I am determined, along with Senator Vitter, to help Stanford victims gain financial relief and will continue to push for remedies through the SEC and in Congress."

"Louisiana is a global leader in trade, and proper maintenance of our ports is critical for our exports to grow. I am extremely pleased so many members understand the importance of dredging, especially in light of the recent floods in South Louisiana. I thank Congressman Gibbs for his support of this critical legislation, and I encourage other members concerned about jobs and economic growth in our country to sign on."

"This is further proof we have an abundance of natural resources right here at home. The Administration must speed up the permitting process and put our energy producers back to work. These discoveries resulted from the long-delayed first permits issued by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement (BOEMRE) and reiterate yet again further delays in permitting must end. These and other discoveries will lower the cost of gas at the pump and lessen our dependence on foreign oil."

"The loss of Louisiana's coastline over the past several decades is tremendous, but our efforts to restore them are paying off. After losing 1,900 square miles of coastal Louisiana since 1932, USGS acknowledged the rate of coastal loss between 2008 and 2010 has significantly declined, and land may have been gained during that period. This demonstrates the effectiveness of the coastal restoration efforts I've worked with the state and Congress to implement. We must continue funding these programs, including the Southwest Coastal Louisiana Feasibility Study, to ensure our valuable coastal wetlands – the engine behind Louisiana's economy – are here for future generations."

"We owe our men and women in uniform the best care available. Today's announcement is welcome news for veterans across Acadiana and Southwest Louisiana. Our efforts are now paying off and steady progress is being made on the Lafayette and Lake Charles clinics. I will continue working closely with veterans groups to ensure their needs are met. As a former heart surgeon, I understand the necessity of accessible health care."

"Service to our nation is a high calling, and I am extremely proud to have nominated such fine young men to our nation's Service Academies. Ryan, Brennan and Joshua each exhibit the leadership and academic traits our Armed Forces need as they defend our freedoms. These young men have bright futures ahead, and I wish them the best of luck and offer my congratulations."

"The federal debt is a threat to our national security and to the economic security of every American man, woman and child. Serious solutions to this threat must include tackling our out-of-control spending. Republicans delivered a unified message to the White House – we will not raise the debt limit without significant and substantial cuts in spending. The debt is as large as the entire U.S. economy, and continues to jeopardize jobs and growth in this country. It's time this government lives within its means, just as the hard-working men and women of Louisiana."

"My primary duty in Congress is to listen to the people I represent. I always enjoy visiting with constituents in the district and hearing firsthand their views about what we are doing in Washington. I encourage residents from across Southwest Louisiana to come to Vinton and share their concerns with me."

"Improper payments arising from refundable tax credits have cost taxpayers an estimated $106 billion in less than a decade. To put this amount of money in perspective, it's more than the fiscal year budgets of the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Treasury, and Transportation – combined."

"Protecting our coastal wetlands is crucial to Southwest Louisiana. I will continue to fight in Washington to rebuild our coast and protect it for future generations."

"At a time of record level federal deficits, the last thing the government can afford is to be hemorrhaging tens of billions of dollars in improper payments. The Subcommittee needs to understand the current levels of waste, fraud, and abuse and what can be done to prevent billions of dollars of improper payments each year."

"This development is critical for Southwest Louisiana's economy, and gives the United States a boost on the global energy stage. With so much uncertainty from the Administration and no clear energy strategy for this country, this approval proves the United States has an abundance of natural resources to be utilized in both foreign and domestic markets."

"The most important thing we can do right now is protect human life. I ask everyone to listen to officials and heed all evacuation warnings. I have been working with officials across the state to ensure lives are protected and residents are given as much information and advance warning as possible. Again, please take every precaution to protect you and your family from the flooding."

"These unnecessary rules hurt small offshore service companies at a time when they are still reeling from the devastating effects of President Obama's moratorium. By removing these regulations and clarifying the intent of the law, our U.S.-flag vessels and workers will not be restricted in their ability to provide timely offshore services."

"Washington Democrats spent the week calling these ‘amnesia' bills, but they must have amnesia for forgetting the thousands of jobs the moratorium and de facto moratorium have cost the people of South Louisiana. With gas prices nearing $4 a gallon, their opposition to this pro-job legislation is troubling and puts at risk our economic security and energy independence."

"While many employers have done all they can to retain their workers during this crisis, many businesses and their employees were financially devastated by the President's policy. I strongly encourage anyone who needs assistance as a result of this disaster to apply immediately for assistance."

"Louisiana's fragile wetlands are endangered by these harmful intruders, and my legislation aims to combat their devastating impacts. Nutria have long been a menace to Louisiana, and with the growing population of feral swine, we must take action to curb the destruction both species inflict on our wetlands."

"With oil and gas prices skyrocketing, there is no excuse for any delays to offshore energy exploration and production. The people of this country are tired of the uncertainty, they are tired of our dependence on foreign oil, they are tired of record gas prices. It is crucial to restoring our own capabilities to produce energy by moving forward with permit applications in a sensible amount of time. The bottom line is, we must begin the path toward a solid energy policy and get Americans back to work. There is no excuse for delay."

"This plan punishes businesses across the country, and that is unacceptable. Small energy producers and service companies in Louisiana will feel the sting of this, not the big oil companies. If President Obama and his Democratic allies get their way, a plan like this puts an added burden on all Americans, who will have to pay even more at the pump. With gas prices hitting $4 a gallon nationwide, this plan would be a disaster."

U.S. Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., MD (R-Southwest Louisiana) today congratulated Sarah Ahrens of St. Thomas Moore High School in Lafayette for winning the 2011 Congressional High School Arts Competition. Her entry, titled "Shades of Autumn,"will hang in the U.S. Capitol for a year. Ahrens received roundtrip airfare, compliments of Southwest Airlines, to attend a reception in Washington, D.C., and is also eligible for a $1,500 per year scholarship to Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD).

"Our state is prepared for the worst, but I ask residents across Coastal Louisiana to remain vigilant. The vast network of levees, control structures, and floodgates has proven effective for our region of the state in the past. However, experts are predicting river levels to crest in mid to late May, so I ask everyone to be cautious and prepared in advance."

"At the state and local levels, public employees are often promised defined benefit pension plans, subsidized through the Tax Code, that guarantee payments down the road. But the numbers suggest public employee pensions may be dangerously underfunded. This raises questions about the promises public employers make, how the pension liabilities are calculated, and whether greater transparency is needed to better protect the lives and livelihoods of the men and women who depend on these pensions as they plan for their futures."

"At a time when businesses large and small are struggling to survive in a weakened economy, this added burden is completely misguided and unacceptable. The Congressional Budget Office warns 800,000 fewer people will have jobs in the next 10 years because of this provision. We must repeal it now to permit businesses in Louisiana and across the country to focus on growing their companies, hiring workers and doing their part to improve the economy."

"This legislation is crucial to getting coastal Louisianians back to work. It is critical we restore our own capabilities to produce energy by immediately moving forward with scheduled leases. While gas prices continue to skyrocket, the Administration calls for an increase in foreign energy production instead of getting production back on our own coast. We have an abundance of natural resources in our own backyard, all across coastal Louisiana, and yet we cannot produce because of the delays of this incompetent Administration. We are acting to boost our economy, create jobs, and put our resources to work."

"Secretary Sebelius and senior HHS officials continue refusing to explain their authority to rewrite the CLASS Act in the new health law. After calling the program ‘unsustainable' without a massive taxpayer bailout, the Secretary has neglected to answer a letter sent by 43 Members of Congress regarding her desire to ignore specific language in the health law. This lack of transparency and accountability exacerbates problems with Obamacare. It's time to repeal the health law and replace it with a health-care plan to expand coverage, improve quality and lower cost, while strengthening the doctor-patient relationship."

"Louisiana is a global leader in trade, and proper maintenance of our ports is critical for our exports to grow. This bill has wide bi-partisan support, and endorsements from the majority of Louisiana's Republican members demonstrate they understand the necessity of fully funded maintenance and how it will benefit our state's economy."

"Today's victory is a victory for human life in this nation. We must unequivocally end the slaughter of our most innocent victims. This legislation is of the utmost importance for the unborn children in this country. As a physician, I dedicated my life to healing and nurturing human life. As a Member of Congress, I will continue to ensure the right to life is protected, as I have done every day since taking office."

"We voted to stop Secretary Seblius' slush fund. As with so much of ObamaCare, this provision allows the Administration to overstep its boundaries. I will continue to fight this health-care debacle until it is fully repealed. We must replace it now with a plan to expand coverage, improve quality and lower cost, while strengthening the doctor-patient relationship."

"Osama bin Laden's death is a significant milestone in combating Al-Qaeda. The mastermind of the attacks of September 11, 2001, has been eliminated. This is a testament to the dedicated work of our service men and women and our intelligence capabilities."

"Whether the underfunding of State and local pension plans is $700 billion or over $3 trillion, it is a serious concern for workers and retirees, for State and local governments, and for taxpayers in general. The Subcommittee needs to understand how public plans are currently calculating their assets and liabilities, not just so we can get a clearer picture of how underfunded those plans really are, but also to determine whether there is adequate transparency in how these plans are reporting their shortfalls. Given that some have raised the specter of a Federal taxpayer bailout to cover the unfunded liabilities of these State and local plans, it is important for the Subcommittee to review this issue and to consider possible approaches to ensure that no such Federal taxpayer bailout is ever needed."

"We must resume production off our coast. Obama's bureaucrats continue dragging out the permitting process, causing gas prices to skyrocket, further eroding our weak economy. Businesses along coastal Louisiana are suffering. Instead of helping them get back in business, the President's solution is to increase taxes on American companies."

"We owe this to our men and women in uniform, from retirees to those who serve today. I will continue working closely with veterans groups to ensure their needs are met, and I am confident we are nearing our goal. As a former heart surgeon, I understand the necessity of accessible health care."

"Louisiana leads the way in exports around the globe, boosting our economy and our workforce at home. Trade with other nations expands markets for our goods and agriculture produced in south Louisiana and strengthens American competitiveness."

"I am deeply concerned that the Obama Administration continues to advocate raising taxes on American energy producers during a period in which Gulf of Mexico drilling and permitting is still being delayed by unnecessary bureaucratic demands and uncertainty. Not only would this make the United States more reliant on foreign sources of fuel, it would burden the American economy by raising energy prices and sending our jobs overseas, rather than keeping them here and encouraging domestic growth."

"This is only the beginning of securing BP funds to restore coastal Louisiana. I will continue to advocate for those affected by the spill until all fully recover. BP must fulfill its responsibility to Louisiana's fragile coastline and to the shrimpers, fishermen and service workers whose jobs and livelihoods were severely affected by the spill."

"One year ago today, eleven lives were lost in what became one of the greatest environmental tragedies in American history. All Louisianans know someone who works in the energy sector, from the dedicated rig workers who must leave their families for weeks at a time, to engineers and scientists who are constantly developing new methods of safe American production. Since day one of the tragedy, I have worked and will continue to work closely with these energy producers to ensure safety remains the top priority. I thank all of them for their work, and I ask you to please keep the families of the eleven men whose lives were lost in your prayers today."

"Burdensome regulations are killing jobs, stifling economic growth and hurting families across this country. As a member of the Ways and Means Committee I am leading the fight against red-tape and power hungry bureaucrats. Americans have had enough – it's time to tackle the biggest, most complex issues of the day, from rewriting our tax code, to strengthening our trade policy to create jobs. Coastal Southwest Louisiana is at the forefront of these issues, and I'm ready for the fight."

"As we approach the one year anniversary of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, it should never be forgotten that 11 brave men lost their lives working to deliver the energy all Americans use every day. The disaster is an ongoing tragedy for Louisiana and the Gulf Coast region, our economy, and our environment. The difficult lessons learned from this incident must be implemented as part of safety standards for future offshore exploration."

"The Ryan budget offers a clear vision of America's economic future, while the President offers empty promises, outdated ideas and hyper-partisan rhetoric. The vote today demonstrates Republicans are committed to eliminating our dangerous debt and bring economic prosperity back to our great nation.

"Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius stated in previous hearings she has the authority to ignore part of the CLASS statute to make the program look more solvent on paper. Instead of allowing this overreach, CLASS needs to be repealed immediately. I have been leading the fight to repeal ObamaCare in its entirety, and I will keep working until this happens."

"Victims of Allen Stanford's investment scam have been devastated. This critical legislation will help thousands of retirees, investors, and small businesses which had millions of dollars stolen. The tax relief in the legislation is the least we can do, compared to the disgusting and sickening actions of Stanford to take the hard-earned savings of thousands of investors."

"I have been at the forefront of this law's repeal, and opposed it from day one. We need a plan to improve quality, expand coverage and lower costs while strengthening the doctor-patient relationship. This particular aspect of the health-care law is a gross abuse of power by the Administration. This is unacceptable, and I will do everything I can to dismantle it and replace it with sensible health-care solutions."

"The speech from President Obama contains his usual lofty rhetoric but his proposal lacks meaningful, substantive solutions to deal with our spending and national debt. The debt imperils our economic and national security, and while the President claims to be stepping up to the plate, Congress has already made the first real efforts to get us back on the path to economic prosperity."

"This country lacks any kind of coherent energy plan, and I have constantly said we need an ‘all of the above' approach. Natural gas is a way to transition from a dependence on foreign oil to an energy strategy which utilizes resources here at home. Louisiana is home to the one of the largest natural gas deposits in the world. Natural gas will help us diversify our energy sources available here at home."

"Avoiding a government shutdown was important for the sake of our troops and our national security, as well as our economic recovery. At the same time, it was important to make fiscally responsible cuts in spending because of the massive debt."

"In the event of a shutdown, I will not accept my Congressional salary. It is reprehensible Democrats will not even ensure our troops' pay is maintained. I hope we can reach a resolution to prevent this abomination from happening."

"With gas prices rising daily, we cannot afford to continue to cripple energy producers. Overreaching regulations adversely affect small businesses and individuals as well, and they are not the answer. I am pleased the House acted on this legislation today and I hope the Senate follows suit."

"In addition to rice, soybean producers and many other Louisiana businesses will be able to successfully compete and gain market share in Colombia. By opening this and other markets, our small businesses and companies can grow and prosper."

"When everyone in Washington thinks a piece of legislation is bad, including both parties and the President, the law needs to go. Repealing this provision is the right thing to do, but is only the beginning of our work to fully dismantle this law."

"The bottom line is this plan will finally pay down our massive, strangling debt by tackling some of the biggest drivers of our spending and restore jobs to our country. While making much needed cuts, the budget preserves and strengthens Medicare, which is so important to our seniors. It lowers unemployment and helps business to hire workers once again. Our debt, which stands at over $14 trillion, or more than $45,000 for every man, woman and child in this country, has become a threat to our national and economic security. This budget is what this country needs to get our economy back on track."

"Today, AARP had the opportunity to refute the findings of our report. They did not do so. However, what we did learn is AARP is making even more money than we originally thought by selling insurance – potentially as much as 90 million dollars more a year. This only adds to our concerns that insurance profits may be driving policy decisions at AARP, rather than the best interest of seniors. As such, we will be formally requesting the IRS review AARP's operations."

"Today, more than fifty years after its founding as a small nonprofit helping the retired, AARP has morphed into an insurance and advertising powerhouse. According to the most recent data we have, AARP, Inc. and its for-profit organizations annually process billions of dollars in insurance premiums, and earn nearly $700 million in insurance revenues and over $100 million in advertising revenues. Yet as AARP, Inc. has grown by leaps and bounds, its funding for charitable work has nearly flat-lined."

"Charged with administering this growing tax code, the IRS must simultaneously respect the rights of taxpayers, provide assistance to the millions of taxpayers who have questions about their taxes, and go after those who seek to cheat the tax system."

"The lack of strong walls between AARP's for-profit and non-profit side raises questions. AARP enjoys a privileged tax-exempt status, but in many cases AARP resembles a for-profit entity. Now that the information gathering phase has concluded, we are turning over this report to the IRS. The IRS is best equipped to handle further investigation, and if it is determined AARP has abused its tax-exempt status, it will be up to the IRS to determine whether or not that privileged status ought to be revoked."

"Fully maintained harbors and ports will enhance our ability to trade with other countries and greatly enhance our ability to ship Louisiana products around the globe. At a time when residents along the Gulf Coast are still reeling from the moratorium and high unemployment, enhancing our ports will provide jobs and get the region's economy up and running again."

"The Obama Administration has ignored the Gulf Coast delegation for nearly a year now. These bills will force it to finally act to end the job-killing moratorium and get our men and women back to work."

"The President said he consulted with Congress before taking action, but there was no communication with members prior our military intervention. He consulted with the UN Security Council before Congress, which is unacceptable. I hope our actions in Libya are swift and bring change to the nation, but despite his remarks, the President did not lay out clear goals for our exit or when that might be."

"Creativity is essential for a well-rounded education, and the annual Congressional Arts Competition gives me the opportunity to highlight some of Southwest Louisiana's best and brightest young artists."

"As one of the country's most well-known non-profits, many of America's seniors trust AARP to represent their interests. But in light of AARP's dependence on its income from insurance products, there is good reason to question whether AARP is primarily looking out for seniors or just its own bottom line."

"We are already feeling the effects of this terrible health care policy, as 1,000 waivers have been issued in a short amount of time. The American people were adamant in their opposition to the bill but the White House and Congressional Democrats ignored them."

"The President last week committed the United States to military action in Libya, but offered no definite plan, gave no indication of cost, and did not seek any authorization from Congress. Without question, the Ghadafi regime must be stopped, but with his actions, President Obama committed this country without securing the constitutionally mandated authority of Congress."

"With or without this change, the CLASS program remains fatally flawed. Failure to repeal it now will harm taxpayers and individuals who depend on promises the program will fail to honor."

"Our transportation infrastructure is vital to the growth of our economy in Southwest Louisiana. This grant provides safety improvements which will strengthen the Lafayette Regional Airport and help position Lafayette as an economic leader in the state."

"With each passing day, thanks to this Administration, America is worsening its dependence on foreign oil. We have no energy policy in this country. Our rigs continue to sit idly by in the Gulf of Mexico, our workers can't return to their jobs, and the price at the pump continues to skyrocket, impacting every American. Mr. President, enough is enough."

"This decision is great news for our shrimp industry. So many shrimpers have had a difficult recovery after the BP tragedy. This ruling contributes to the recovery process and will help Louisiana shrimpers to prosper once again. I was pleased to offer my support to the industry and will continue to do so as the Gulf Coast rebuilds."

"The students of Cameron Parish will benefit significantly from this extensive FEMA grant for contents lost to Hurricane Ike. The funding will reimburse the system for equipment, materials and supplies that have been previously been purchased, assisting with the general fund cash flow and allowing more dollars to touch students.

"As a retired heart surgeon, I understand first-hand the importance of fast, effective ambulance service. This bill will ensure these services are funded and seniors receive needed care quickly."

"Americans want health-care solutions that lower costs. FSAs are a great place to start. These accounts should not penalize individuals who save for medical expenses. We should eliminate this provision and empower consumers to make prudent health-care decisions. I will continue working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to improve quality, expand coverage and lower costs while strengthening the doctor-patient relationship."

"We write to express our concerns regarding the findings of Ernst & Young's recent independent audit of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS or Department) FY 2010 financial statements. This audit, contracted through the HHS Office of Inspector General, revealed significant and worrying shortcomings throughout your Department. We are deeply troubled by shortcomings that point to apparent mishandling of taxpayer dollars and seek to better understand what the Department is doing to correct the identified problems."

"There is an urgency now more than ever to get American energy production up and running again. Oil prices are skyrocketing, Americans are feeling the pressure at the pump, and the Administration continues to delay production. These lease extensions allow exploration operations to continue without further delay. They will prevent these current idle leases from ‘ticking away' while producers continue to pay."

"I want to alert you that Gulf shrimp has a rich tradition as being of the highest quality in the world, with Louisiana's coast alone producing nearly one-third of the domestic seafood consumed in the lower forty-eight states."

"[The Administration] now wants to open up the strategic petroleum reserve, which is supposed to be used in severe shortages. That's not an energy policy, that actually hurts our country."

"These funds will be used not only to maintain our treasured coastline, but to educate the public of its importance as well. Protecting our marshes, ensuring goods and services can safely be transported throughout our communities, and allowing the public to enjoy our resources are among my top priorities for Louisiana."

"Gulf Coast seafood is back in business. We need a clear message from the Obama Administration that our seafood is safe for consumption. A strong, united effort in this message will ensure a rebirth in this industry and restore confidence in the hard working men and women on the coast."

"The President thinks it's bad, Democrats think it's bad, Republicans think it's bad. It has taken long enough to move on this issue, and further delay is unacceptable."

"With so much unrest in North Africa and the Middle East, it is critical that American energy production gets up and running again. These delays have severely hurt the hard-working men and women of the Gulf Coast, and continue to jeopardize our national security."

"This isn't simply about those committing fraud, it's about the patients and health care providers that are hurt by it. I come from a family line of physicians, and as a cardiothoracic surgeon, I understand that every dollar lost to health care fraud is a dollar not spent on patient care."

"Four billion dollars in spending cuts is far short of what the American people demand. I will work with my colleagues to move forward on the cuts the House approved in one of the most open and transparent debates."

"This first deepwater permit is critical to restoring jobs in Louisiana, especially at a time of rising gas prices and turmoil in the Middle East. The United States cannot afford to continue its reliance on foreign energy when so many of our natural resources sit idly by in our own backyard."

"The federal government borrows 41 cents for every dollar it spends, and a growing portion of this is within the Medicare program. At a time when the federal government is hemorrhaging money, we have to make every effort to stop fraud within the health care system."

"As America's dependence on foreign oil continues, we feel the impact of the conflicts in the Middle East. But the impact this instability has on American energy proves again that we must utilize the resources we have in this country rather than foster our continued addiction to foreign oil."

"This event is an excellent opportunity for local businesses to speak to and interact with experts on improving their global reach. I am pleased that Chairman Hochberg will be joining us in Lafayette to lend his expertise to South Louisiana businesses."

"After much debate and numerous amendments to ensure appropriate cuts are made, this Congress has already done what the previous Congress could not."

"Today's action by the Ways and Means Committee is an important first step in repealing this disastrous health-care law. The 1099 component of Obamacare is incredibly inefficient, and creates mountains of unnecessary paperwork for small businesses across the country."

"For two years we have waited for unemployment numbers to drop. For two years we have waited for our economy to rebound. For two years we have waited for the promises this administration made when they passed this ill-advised legislation. For two years we have been told the stimulus package is working, but it is not. Louisiana residents are still waiting for answers, waiting for results from this President, but it seems unlikely they will come."

"With every advancement in the permitting process, we are one step closer getting Louisiana workers back to their jobs and revitalizing our economy that was damaged first by the moratorium and now by thedefacto moratorium on permitting. We still have much to do until American energy production has fully resumed. I will be there every step of the way to continue putting pressure on the Obama administration and aiding our workers in any way I can."

"Louisiana is a leader in international trade because of our extensive port system,"Boustany said to Director Lew. He emphasized that sediment build-up in coastal shipping channels is a significant problem and requires constant maintenance. "To be clear, this is a national problem, but I have the honor to represent a district along the Louisiana coast and see firsthand the importance of dredging operations."

"Many Americans oppose the idea of being required to purchase expensive Washington-approved health insurance. The new health law also requires participating employers to auto-enroll all workers in the CLASS entitlement program – unless a worker pays close attention and takes the time to opt out."

"At a time when Americans are concerned about our ability to compete here and abroad, the Obama administration continues its full-scale assault on America's energy producers."

"I congratulate the University of Louisiana at Lafayette for attaining this award. Ensuring that all Louisiana residents are able to fully realize the graduate programs available through our universities is essential to improving our overall education system in this state."

"In the letter, the Chairmen outlined several concerns related to the program noting that it consistently ranks among the most poorly administered federal programs in terms of improper payments."

"The President's budget emphasizes more of the same spending, tax increases, and borrowing this administration has advocated for the past two years. We need to be focused on creating jobs and getting all Americans back to work, especially in the Gulf of Mexico energy sector."

"I hope this historic moment results in a peaceful transition of power as the nation moves toward an open, democratic government."

"Insurance experts outside government conclude CLASS is likely to suffer from severe adverse selection, attracting less healthy enrollees which will drive up premiums," Boustany said. Foster agreed, repeating his April 2010 warnings to Congress that CLASS premiums could rise so fast that the program enters an "insurance death spiral."

"I view the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement as the beginning of the process, NOT the end. I hope you will commit to continuing to fight for greater Korean market access for U.S. rice and other commodities that may have been left out of this agreement."

"As our state continues down the long road to recovery, we need to ensure that every opportunity is given to those trying to rebuild. These tax credits have been extremely beneficial to the coast after the devastation of Hurricanes Rita and Katrina. By extending them, we are providing time for developers to begin and complete the unfinished work of the reconstruction and recovery of Louisiana."

"This is historic news for the state of Louisiana, as this treasured species will finally return home. Cooperation between the state and federal governments is key if we are to fully revitalize our coast. Restoring wildlife to the Gulf Coast is a key step towards rebuilding and preserving our treasured swamps and marshes and ensuring that they will be protected for future generations."

"These low job numbers prove America is still struggling toward economic recovery, and President Obama's stimulus package isn't working. We need to focus on cutting spending, improving American competitiveness, and improving the climate for businesses to grow and develop in this country."

"I remain optimistic that we will be able to ultimately overturn this law. Already, two federal judges have ruled it unconstitutional. As the Republican majority works to replace this law, I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Ways and Means Committee to develop real alternatives to what the Democrats rushed to pass last year."

"I am humbled by the sacrifices and the dedication of the cadets in Comeaux High's ROTC. This gesture is the least I can do to show my gratitude to them and to the memory of their fellow soldiers who have died defending our freedom."

"This $20 billion medical device tax will prompt layoffs, limit medical innovation, and harm patients who depend on tomorrow's life-saving breakthroughs. It needs to be repealed. Economists widely agree that these new costs will be passed onto consumers and increase health-insurance premiums."

"While the President's message was certainly upbeat and praised America's ideals, it is worth noting what was left out of his speech. The President neglected to discuss the oil spill, nor did he mention the moratorium and the damage that his policies have done to American energy producers in Louisiana."

"The Columbia, Panama and South Korea Free Trade Agreements are necessary to get our economy back on track and create jobs. These agreements will create US jobs and open new markets for American goods and services. They will increase American competitiveness abroad and significantly lower many of the tariffs currently in place on US exports. We must pass these agreements as soon as possible. Several nations, including the European Union, have aggressively passed similar agreements that will put the US businesses at a disadvantage."

"Browner's legacy is a short-sighted, misguided energy policy that crippled our American energy producers and damaged us on the international stage. I hope this move signals a shift in the White House to take a more commonsense approach to energy issues critical to our national security and to the hard working men and women along the Gulf Coast."

"All human life is precious, and I am proud to support those who came to Washington and demonstrated their commitment to life."

"I was pleased to have the opportunity to join our Congressional leaders today and have a discussion with President Hu. The relationship between the United States and China is one of the most important on the global stage today. China is our third largest trading partner and is the second largest economy in the world. I will continue to work with my colleagues to develop solutions in order to build a stronger partnership with China. I thank President Hu for meeting with us today."

"This vote is the first step to dismantling the damage caused by President Obama's health care law, which passed last year despite objections from most Americans."

"This administration doesn't listen. Today's announcement creates an even larger bureaucracy and puts up more hurdles for our energy producers to jump. The permitting process has dragged out long enough since the moratorium was lifted, and creating more agencies will not help to quickly get our workers back on the job."

"These funds will go a long way to rebuild the infrastructure of Calcasieu Parish after the damage brought by Hurricane Rita. I have pushed for more assistance from Washington for our ‘Forgotten Storm', and I will continue to fight for the people of Southwest Louisiana until our region is completely rebuilt."

"These funds will go a long way to improve the infrastructure of Vermilion and Iberia Parishes, which will foster the growth and development of commerce in Southwestern Louisiana. I have and will continue to push for improvements to our coastline and infrastructure."

"Rebuilding our schools in Cameron Parish is essential to the long-term recovery of the region after Hurricane Rita. Education will play a key role in preparing our next generation of leaders to guide the future of the parish and the state. I am very pleased that these funds have been allocated and will continue to work toward a full recovery in Cameron Parish."

"Lebanon remains one of the most important allies of the United States in the Middle East. I encourage the Obama Administration to continue its support of the people of Lebanon as they work to build a politically stable and independent nation, safe from the threat of terrorism."

"This report emphasized safety, something that I have long advocated. Most American energy producers have impeccable safety records, and should not be punished for the actions of one. This disaster has been a wake-up call to ensure that safety is the number one priority, but it should not drastically slow production for months for those producers that play by the rules. America's stability depends on our ability to produce energy."

"To echo President Donahue, we must ensure that this economic recovery becomes a jobs recovery. While I am pleased to hear that the signs are beginning to point towards a recovery, I know it will take much work and effort on our part to ensure that it continues."

"Internships provide an opportunity for young people to learn about our government and the political process from the inside. Many of Louisiana's best and brightest have worked for me for a summer or semester in our nation's Capitol, and I greatly appreciate their efforts."

"My thoughts and prayers are with Representative Gabrielle Giffords, her staff and their families, and all who were injured in this senseless attack. This act of violence is an assault on our democracy and our nation and has no place in our society. This is truly a sad day for our country."

"We are facing a long list of issues that we must tackle in order to rebuild our fragile economy, and I plan on working in my position as subcommittee chair to address these head on. In order to increase American competitiveness, we need to take a serious look at our tax code and reform it in a way that encourages growth and prosperity in our nation."

"For too long, Congress used the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund to disguise the federal deficit, limiting the fund's ability to address real problems along many of the waterways important to trade, commerce and jobs. These waterways create thousands of jobs throughout the Gulf Coast region, but chronically underfunded dredging imperils those jobs and commerce each year."

"This Congress faces many challenges, but I look forward to working with the leadership to change the way Congress works."