Impeding Recovery

Statement

Today in Washington, the Department of Labor announced that the unemployment rate rose to 9.8 percent in November as net job creation slowed to 39,000 nationwide. This marks the 16th consecutive month that unemployment remains above 9.5 percent -- a record not seen since the Great Depression. A rising unemployment rate underscores the harsh reality of over 15 million Americans still looking for work. Meanwhile, these jobless Americans continue to watch Washington promote the same tax-and-spend policies that have discouraged economic recovery.

Yesterday, the outgoing House Democrat Majority voted to increase taxes on American families and small businesses by failing to extend all tax relief expiring on January 1, 2011. By passing a tax plan that is dead on arrival in the Senate, the House Majority has once again reminded the American people why they rejected their failed policies of picking winners and losers among families and job-creators.

The Majority's tax plan calls for extending some tax relief -- such as lower income tax rates, the child tax credit, lower rates on capital gains and investments, etc -- only for Americans with incomes below $250,000 a year ($200,000 for individuals). While the Majority prefers to peddle their flawed class warfare arguments, the facts are that raising taxes during economic struggle impedes recovery.

On September 21, 2010, the National Taxpayers Union released a letter signed by more than 300 economists urging extensions of all tax rates on income and investments. These economists stated:

Failing to extend the reduced tax rates implemented in 2001 and 2003 would constitute a profound and damaging "anti-stimulus" that would harm our prospects for expansion in the near future…. Even confining tax hikes to wealthier individuals will have deleterious effects, as households earning more than $210,000 account for one of every three dollars in consumer outlays. Furthermore, businesses directly impacted by upper-bracket tax increases would slow their activities, thereby diminishing economic opportunities for their subcontractors in lower brackets.

Additionally, the Democrat tax increase plan could hit 50 percent of small business income. According to the Joint Committee on Taxation, raising taxes "only" on small businesses with incomes above $200,000/$250,000 would still subject approximately 50 percent of small business income to a tax increase. Small businesses are the engine of our nation's economy, employing half of all U.S. workers and accounting for over 65 percent of net new jobs since 1993. Hitting small businesses with tax increases is recklessly irresponsible at a time of near 10 percent unemployment.

Hardworking Americans deserve certainty in their tax obligations and the ability to keep more of what they earn to save, invest, and create jobs. Especially during this time of high unemployment and economic challenge, no American should face a tax increase. That is why I will continue to stand with my Republican colleagues to fight against this job-killing tax increase. It's time for the outgoing Democrat Majority to honor the American people's voice and work with Republicans to extend real tax relief for all Americans this season.

Federal Buildings Personnel Training Act of 2010

On Wednesday, the House passed the Federal Buildings Personnel Training Act of 2010, legislation that I cosponsored to require the General Services Administration (GSA) to identify necessary competencies for federal personnel to maintain federal buildings.

In response to GSA receiving $5.5 Billion of your tax dollars to upgrade its facilities, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conducted a study and found a lack of proper expertise and training of personnel to maintain the upgrades. To avoid a waste of tax dollar investment, this legislation will give GSA the proper tools it needs to ensure that federal buildings are maintained and operated using efficient resources.

Now more than ever, Congress should focus on supporting policies that reduce government waste. By implementing legislation like the Federal Buildings Personnel Training Act, we will save taxpayer dollars through less maintenance costs and by utilizing best practices for building efficiency.

Recognizing Parents of Special Needs Children

On Tuesday, I was pleased to support the House' unanimous approval of H.Res.1576, a resolution for establishing a National Day of Recognition for Parents of Special Needs Children. As the father of a young man with intellectual disabilities, I am very proud to be a cosponsor of this legislation.

In addition to recognizing the importance of honoring the parents of children with special needs, H.Res.1576 urges the President to signify a day for the American people to recognize with appropriate ceremonies, programs, and activities the unique challenges and hard work of these parents.

The Department of Health and Human Services recently released their National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs, which estimated that 14 percent of children in the United States are diagnosed as having special health care needs. Caring for children with special needs calls for special dedication, compassion, and sacrifice, and I appreciate this Congress' support for annual national recognition for parents of special needs children.

Eagle Scout Recognition

As you may remember, I am very active with the Boy Scouts of America in Congress and in my community. Beginning with my father, Judge William S. Sessions, being an Eagle Scout has become a family tradition. On Sunday, November 28th, I was thrilled to be a part of the Eagle Scout Ceremony for my son, Alex, who has Down syndrome and who now joins his older brother, Bill, and me as Eagle Scouts. Alex was honored on Sunday with two students from the 32nd Congressional District, Ryan Mellinger and Jordan Chumbley.

Congressman Sessions and Nita Sessions with their son, Alex, at his Eagle Scout Ceremony

There are numerous requirements to become an Eagle Scout, including earning at least 21 merit badges and completing an extensive service project. Alex and Ryan chose to accomplish the service project as a team, and they picked White Rock Lake's For Love of the Lake, Adopt-A-Shoreline organization for their service contribution. To recognize volunteer groups that help in conservation efforts, For Love of the Lake places around White Rock Lake Park a personalized sign with the organization's name. Alex and Ryan chose to refurbish all 44 of these wooden signs, which consisted of washing, sanding, and varnishing signs for restoration. This project benefits White Rock Lake Park and the Dallas community that enjoys this beautiful recreational area.

I am always happy to provide congratulatory letters to any Boy Scout or Girl Scout constituent who has completed various award requirements, such as Eagle Scout or Gold Star award. If you would like to request a congratulatory letter, please send a letter or fax with the Scout's name, troop information, and type of award to:

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