House GOP Playing Games, Ignoring Our Challenges -- May 10, 2013
A Note from Congressman Carson
Dear Friend:
Over the last 38 months, the U.S. economy has added 6.8 million private sector jobs, providing much needed strength to our economic recovery. But even with these improvements, we still have a lot of work to do. Congress should be focusing on job creation, replacing the sequester, and finding common sense solutions to our immigration challenges. Rather than tackling these issues head on, though, my colleagues in the GOP have chosen to spend the week playing games with our nation's debt limit.
The GOP's "Pay China First" bill hit the House floor this week, legislation that requires we pay debts to foreign creditors before paying other obligations, including compensation for active-duty military members, veteran's benefits, or Medicare and Medicaid payments. Not only does this cause uncertainty for businesses and world markets, it also puts our nation's economy and creditworthiness at risk. The GOP played similar games with the debt ceiling in 2011, which resulted in the first ever credit downgrade for the U.S.
I call on my colleagues to end these partisan games, and begin the serious work of meeting our challenges. Both sides of the aisle have a responsibility to work together and ensure that we do what's best for the American people.
As always, it's an honor to serve you.
Best,
André
The Inside Scoop
The "Work More, Pay Less" Act
This week the House GOP introduced the so-called "Working Families Flexibility Act". Despite its name, this bill gives more power to employers, amounting to more work and less pay for working families. Under the More Work, Less Pay Act, employers are given greater flexibility to substitute overtime pay to their workers with comp time – essentially lowering wages for workers. The bill also cuts pay for women and undermines the economic security of the middle class. President Obama has already promised to veto the bill.
Teacher Appreciation Week
All over the country this week, we celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week, a time in which we say thanks to all of the educators who work day in and day out to ensure our kids can achieve their dreams. As a nation, we must realize that education is central to solving every challenge we have before us, and we must also recognize that our teachers are the nation builders who ensure our ongoing economic success. Thank you to all of the teachers in Indiana's 7th District who make our kids a priority.
Stamp Out Hunger
This Saturday marks the National Association of Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive, an annual event where letter carriers across the nation collect donations along their routes to help supply local food organizations. If you wish to participate in the food drive, please place your non-perishable, food item donations near your mailbox or take them to the central delivery post office where special receptacles will be provided.