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January 6, 1999...KNOLLENBERG BEGINS FOURTH TERM WITH CALL FOR SOCIAL SECURITY REFORM, LOWER TAXES, BETTER SCHOOLS, AND A STRONGER NATIONAL DEFENSE - U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) believes that the 106th Congress should focus on securing the future of Social Security, cutting taxes, improving the educational opportunities for America's children, and strengthening the nation's defense.
After taking the oath of office for his fourth term in the United States House of Representatives, Knollenberg issued the following statement outlining his legislative priorities for the new Congress: "Over the next ten years, the federal government is projected to run a budget surplus of $1.6 trillion. Instead of using this money to expand the size and scope of the federal government, we must seize this opportunity and advance an agenda that addresses the long term challenges facing our nation.
"First and foremost, we need to modernize Social Security to ensure that it remains viable in the future. With 77 million baby-boomers nearing retirement, the time to act is now.
"Second, we need to cut federal taxes so working families can keep more of their hard-earned money and entrepreneurs can create better paying jobs for the American people.
"Third, we need to improve the quality of our schools by increasing the accountability of teachers and providing parents with more input in the education of their children.
Finally, we need to provide the resources to ensure that our armed forces are the best trained and equipped in the world. With rogue nations like Iraq and North Korea attempting to develop weapons of mass destruction, the world is a very dangerous place. It’s time to replenish our military which has been weakened by the dramatic spending cuts made in recent years."
January 6, 1999...KNOLLENBERG INTRODUCES PACKAGE OF TAX CUT BILLS - With the federal government projected to run a budget surplus of $1.6 trillion over the next ten years, U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) believes Congress should focus on easing the burden of exorbitant federal taxes.
"While the economy has grown at an impressive rate in recent years, excessive taxation has made it harder for working Americans to get ahead. With the budget balanced and the federal government running a surplus, it’s time for Congress to cut taxes so working Americans can keep more of their hard-earned money," Knollenberg said.
According to the non-partisan Tax Foundation, the average family in our nation pays more in taxes (federal, state, and local) than it spends on housing, food, and clothing combined. The Tax Foundation also estimates that the average American has to work until May 10th (128 days) just to pay his or her total tax bill.
Knollenberg introduced five bills today in the House of Representatives to address this problem. The bills focus on reducing income taxes and promoting economic growth by removing the penalties on saving and investing.
Here is a list of the bills in Knollenberg’s tax relief package and a brief summary of their provisions:
THE TAXPAYER RELIEF ACT
Cuts marginal income tax rates by 10%
across the board.
THE TAXPAYER FAIRNESS
ACT
Allows
taxpayers to deduct their payroll taxes from their federal income
taxes.
THE SENIOR CITIZEN TAX RELIEF
ACT
Repeals the 1993
tax increase on Social Security benefits.
Repeals the earnings limit for Social Security
benefits.
Repeals the
taxes on estates and gifts.
THE JOB
CREATION ACT
Eliminates the capital gains tax.
THE
MARRIAGE PENALTY RELIEF ACT
Increases the standard deduction provided
to married couples so that it equals twice the
amount of the deduction provided to
single taxpayers.
"My tax relief package
provides relief to every working American. It strengthens families,
promotes economic growth, and restores fairness and simplicity to the tax code,"
Knollenberg concluded.
January 19, 1999...KNOLLENBERG’S
RESPONSE TO STATE OF THE UNION SPEECH - In response to President
Clinton’s State of the Union address, U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) issued
the following statement: "As we begin the new year, there are several
challenges facing our nation that must be addressed. Regardless of the
outcome of President Clinton’s impeachment trial, the Republican majority
in
the 106th Congress stands ready to
advance a legislative agenda that addresses the concerns of
the American people.
"Specifically, we must reform Social Security to ensure that this valuable program remains viable in the future.
"We must reduce the exorbitant burden of federal taxes so working Americans can keep more of their hard-earned money and entrepreneurs can continue to create good paying jobs.
"We must improve the quality of our schools to ensure that our children receive the skills they will need to compete in the economy of the 21st century.
"And we must strengthen our national defense by ensuring that American troops are the best equipped and most highly trained in the world.
"Although the president addressed some of these issues tonight, I was disappointed by his call for new spending and higher taxes. Instead of creating a larger and more intrusive federal government, we must return power and money to the American people.
"This is the best way to grow our economy and improve the standard of living for all Americans."
January 19, 1999...KNOLLENBERG PLEDGES
TO LOCK AWAY 100% OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY SURPLUS FOR SOCIAL SECURITY -
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) signed a pledge today that he would vote
to set aside 100% of the Social Security surplus for the retirement security of
the American people at a press conference hosted by the non-partisan senior
citizen organization, The 60 Plus
Association.
"Since its inception, Congress and the president have used the Social Security trust fund as a slush fund to pay for wasteful Washington programs.
"With Social Security facing serious financial challenges in the very near future, this dishonest practice must come to an end.
"Let me be clear: Not one penny of Social Security revenue should be used for anything but the retirement security of America’s senior citizens," U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) said.
Knollenberg, who serves on the House Budget Committee, is prepared to vote for a Republican budget plan that would create a safe-deposit box to ensure that the Social Security surplus is not squandered on other federal programs.
Over the next decade, the Republican budget proposal would set aside $1.8 trillion for Social Security and Medicare in comparison to the $1.68 trillion dedicated for these programs in the Clinton Administration's budget.
"The Republican party is committed to ensuring that Social Security and Medicare remain viable for current and future retirees. Our budget proposal takes a huge first step in accomplishing this goal," Knollenberg concluded.
"While I am upset that the president didn't include a tax cut in his budget, I believe there are some areas where bipartisan agreements can be forged.
"Republicans and Democrats both agree that we should utilize the vast majority of the budget surplus to secure the future of Social Security. There is a growing consensus that we need to increase defense spending to ensure that our troops are the best trained and equipped in the world. And there is a strong desire on both sides of the aisle to improve the quality of our education system.
"In the end, I believe that significant legislation will be enacted in 106th Congress that addresses the long-term challenges of our nation and improves the standard of living for all Americans.
"I am also optimistic that taxes will be cut. The American people are currently facing the highest tax burden in the history of our nation. With the federal government projected to run a budget surplus of $4.4 trillion over the next 15 years, there is no justification for taxing the American people at a higher rate than was necessary to finance World War II."
February 4, 1999...KNOLLENBERG COSPONSORS NATIONAL MISSILE DEFENSE BILL - U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) added his support today to a bill declaring that "it is the policy of the United States to deploy a national missile defense."
The legislation, H.R. 4, was authored by U.S. Reps. Curt Weldon (R-PA) and John Spratt (D-SC). It has strong bipartisan support and is one of the top priorities for the Republican majority in the House of Representatives.
"With rogue states like North Korea, Iran, and Iraq working feverishly to develop weapons of mass destruction and the missile technology to deliver them to the soil of the United States, there is no justification for Congress and the president to leave the American people vulnerable to a ballistic missile attack," Knollenberg said.
Contrary to popular opinion, the United States has no defense against incoming ballistic missiles. The effort to deploy a national missile defense system gained momentum after a bipartisan commission headed by Donald Rumsfeld, a former Secretary of Defense, reported to Congress that the United States was in real danger of being subjected to a ballistic missile attack launched by a rogue nation.
While it had been previously believed that it would be at least 15 years before a rogue state would have the ability to reach the United States, many defense experts have concluded that North Korea already has the technology to direct ballistic missiles to Alaska and Hawaii and will be able to reach the mainland within five short years.
"We have the technology to defend the American people from incoming ballistic missiles. Now we need a political commitment to move forward and address this clear and present danger to our national security.
"The time to act is now. Every day we delay this important decision is another day that madmen like Saddam Hussein have to develop weapons of mass destruction and the capability to deliver them to the United States," Knollenberg concluded.
February 10, 1999...KNOLLENBERG CALLS FOR FREEZE ON CAFÉ STANDARDS - In testimony today, U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) urged the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation to include language in this year's budget that would freeze CAFÉ standards at their current levels (27.5 mpg for passenger cars and 20.7 mpg for light trucks).
Knollenberg, a leading opponent of the Kyoto treaty on climate change, is concerned that the Clinton Administration will seek an increase in CAFÉ standards to implement its policies on global climate change.
"Meeting the stringent requirements of the fatally-flawed Kyoto treaty would require an increase in CAFÉ standards. There is no way around it. And raising CAFÉ standards would have a devastating impact on the American automobile industry.
"It would distort the domestic market, interfere with consumer preferences, and place American automobile manufacturers at a competitive disadvantage with their foreign counterparts.
"Given the lack of sound science surrounding the issue of climate change, there is no justification for moving forward with draconian regulations that would hurt our economy, " Knollenberg said.
Knollenberg, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, has been instrumental in preventing the Clinton Administration from hiking CAFÉ standards. For the past four years, he has included language in the federal budget to freeze CAFÉ standards at their current levels.
February 10, 1999...KNOLLENBERG RE-INTRODUCES PLUMBING REFORM BILL - U.S. Representative Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) recently re-introduced legislation to repeal plumbing fixture flow restrictions imposed by the federal government on the American consumer. The new legislation, HR 623, is the successor to a similar bill which died in the 105th Congress. The bill is designed to eliminate the highly-criticized government restrictions requiring 1.6 gallon toilets and "low-flow" showerheads in all new construction.
The plumbing restrictions, originally enacted as an obscure rider to the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1992, have now taken effect causing an outpouring of resentment from consumers and a black market for illegal, older 3.5 gallon toilets. In fact, a number of plumbing supply retailers in Windsor, Ontario, regularly advertise in Detroit newspapers inviting Americans to Canada to purchase toilets.
HR 623 was introduced with 30 original co-sponsors in the U.S. House of Representatives, including Rep. Joe Barton (R-TX), the chairman of the sub-committee of jurisdiction for the bill.
"Washington has no business dictating to American consumers on the size of their toilet or the flow of their shower," Knollenberg said. "Not only are the water-saving benefits of these devices questionable, it is ridiculous for the federal government to mandate a one-size-fits all rule for the consumers of Michigan, Arizona, and South Carolina. If local governments decide to regulate plumbing supplies they are free to do so under my legislation, but the American people don't need the politicians and bureaucrats in Washington telling them how to flush and bathe."
"Get Washington out of our bathrooms," Knollenberg continued. "Let the marketplace determine what is best for consumers. I believe the American people are fully capable of making that decision."
Congressional hearings on HR 623 are expected to be conducted later this year.
February 11, 1999...U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HONORS KNOLLENBERG WITH SPIRIT OF ENTERPRISE AWARD - The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the nation's largest business organization, presented U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) with its Spirit of Enterprise Award today for his efforts to promote economic growth.
"I am honored to receive the Spirit of Enterprise award. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has been instrumental in the effort to create a better economic environment by cutting taxes, opening foreign markets, and promoting common sense regulatory policies.
"I look forward to working with this well-respected and influential organization to strengthen our economy and improve the standard of living for every American," Knollenberg said.
A successful small businessman before being elected to Congress, Knollenberg has distinguished himself as being a strong proponent of economic growth and fiscal responsibility. His top priorities for the 106th Congress include a 10% across the board income tax cut, an elimination of the capital gains tax, and fast track trade negotiating authority for the president.
"While our economy is growing at a strong pace, we can do better. Excessive taxation, over-regulation, and unnecessary litigation are hindering the ability of entrepreneurs to expand their businesses and create better paying jobs for the American people.
"By reducing the size and cost of the federal government, we can increase the productivity of our economy and enhance the quality of life in our nation," Knollenberg concluded.
February 11, 1999...U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HONORS KNOLLENBERG WITH SPIRIT OF ENTERPRISE AWARD - The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the nation's largest business organization, presented U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) with its Spirit of Enterprise Award today for his efforts to promote economic growth.
"I am honored to receive the Spirit of Enterprise award. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has been instrumental in the effort to create a better economic environment by cutting taxes, opening foreign markets, and promoting common sense regulatory policies.
"I look forward to working with this well-respected and influential organization to strengthen our economy and improve the standard of living for every American," Knollenberg said.
A successful small businessman before being elected to Congress, Knollenberg has distinguished himself as being a strong proponent of economic growth and fiscal responsibility. His top priorities for the 106th Congress include a 10% across the board income tax cut, an elimination of the capital gains tax, and fast track trade negotiating authority for the president.
"While our economy is growing at a strong pace, we can do better. Excessive taxation, over-regulation, and unnecessary litigation are hindering the ability of entrepreneurs to expand their businesses and create better paying jobs for the American people.
"By reducing the size and cost of the federal government, we can increase the productivity of our economy and enhance the quality of life in our nation," Knollenberg concluded.
March 2, 1999...KNOLLENBERG SUPPORTS BUSH FOR PRESIDENT - U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) announced today that he would enthusiastically support George W. Bush if he decides to run for the White House in 2000.
"George W. Bush is a dynamic leader who has what it takes to win back the White House for the Republican party in 2000.
"As the governor of Texas, he has compiled a strong record on the issues that concern the American people. He has cut taxes, reformed welfare, improved the quality of education, and reduced the threat of violent crime.
"I have the utmost confidence in his ability to lead the nation and respectfully urge him to become a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination," Knollenberg said.
March 11, 1999...KNOLLENBERG OUTRAGED BY TAX BURDEN - According to the non-partisan Tax Foundation, the average American will have to work 131 days this year just to pay his or her total tax bill. This means that Tax Freedom Day, the day the American people stop working for the government and begin to keep their hard-earned money for their own needs, is today, May 11th.
In recognition of Tax Freedom Day, U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) reiterated his call for lower taxes. "Federal taxes are too high, and it’s time for Congress and the president to cut them so the American people can keep more of their hard-earned money.
"There is simply no excuse for requiring the American people to work until May 11th just to pay their taxes," Knollenberg said.
Knollenberg, an ardent tax cutter and a member of the House Appropriations and Budget Committees, introduced five bills on the opening day of the 106th Congress that would significantly reduce the exorbitant burden of federal taxes. This tax relief package includes a 10% across the board income tax cut, marriage penalty relief, and an elimination of the taxes on capital gains and estates.
"With a strong economy and the federal government running a surplus, there will never be a better time to cut taxes.
"In the coming weeks and months, I will be working with my colleagues in the House and Senate to provide the American people with a significant tax cut, one that increases the take-home pay of everyone who pays federal income taxes," Knollenberg concluded.
March 18, 1999...REPUBLICAN BUDGET PREPARES AMERICA FOR THE CHALLENGES OF THE 21ST CENTURY - The House Budget Committee approved a FY 2000 budget resolution yesterday that lays out the tax and spending priorities of the Republican majority in the House and Senate.
Major provisions of the plan include the following:
1. Assurance that 100% of Social
Security surplus will be used for Social Security.
2.
A tax cut of $800 billion over the next decade.
3.
Additional funding for national defense and education.
4.
Maintains spending caps established in Balanced Budget Act of 1997.
U.S.
Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), a member of the House Budget Committee, issued the
following statement:
"This budget prepares
our great nation for the challenges of the 21st Century. It strengthens
Social Security, beefs up our national defense, improves the quality of our
schools, and provides the American people with the biggest reduction in federal
taxes since Ronald Reagan’s first term as president of the United
States.
"I am proud to be a part of the team that put this proposal together, and I will fight hard to ensure that its policies are adopted in the 106th Congress."
March 10, 1999...KNOLLENBERG VOTES FOR BILL TO CUT WASHINGTON RED TAPE AND PROVIDE LOCAL SCHOOLS WITH MORE CONTRO OVER FEDERAL EDUCATION DOLLARS - U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) voted today for passage of H.R. 800, the Education Flexibility Partnership Act of 1999. The bill, which provides states and local school districts with greater flexibility in spending federal education dollars, passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 330 to 90.
"In some cases less than one-third of federal education dollars are reaching the classroom because of intrusive red tape imposed on local schools by Washington’s bureaucracy.
"This is an outrage. The teachers, parents, and school administrators across America have a better understanding of what students need than some bureaucrat in Washington does.
"We can improve the quality of our schools and ensure that more money reaches the classroom by giving states and local school districts greater flexibility in spending federal education dollars," Knollenberg said.
In 1992, legislation was enacted to provide 12 states, including Michigan, with the flexibility to waive cumbersome federal mandates and regulations governing the expenditure of federal education funding for elementary and secondary education. H.R. 800 provides this flexibility to remainder of the 50 states.
March 16, 1999...KNOLLENBERG SUPPORTS RESOLUTION EXPRESSING CONGRESSIONAL OPPOSITION TO UNILATERAL DECLARATION OF PALESTINIAN STATEHOOD - The House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved a resolution today that expresses congressional opposition to the unilateral declaration of a Palestinian state.
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Foreign Operations and an original cosponsor of the resolution, issued the following statement: "The Oslo Accords provide that the establishment of a Palestinian state must be determined through negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.
"This agreement must be honored. A unilateral declaration of Palestinian statehood would disrupt the peace process and lead to more bloodshed and violence in the Middle East.
"Therefore, it’s important for the United States to make it clear to the Palestinian Authority that such a declaration would be met with condemnation."
March 18, 1999...KNOLLENBERG STATEMENT ON MISSILE DEFENSE BILL - The House of Representatives is scheduled to consider legislation today that declares that it is the policy of the United States to deploy a national missile defense.
The bill, H.R. 4, is expected to pass with strong bipartisan support. U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), an original cosponsor of the measure, issued the following statement: "The threat of a ballistic missile armed with a nuclear, biological, or chemical warhead reaching the United States is real and requires our immediate attention.
"While the United States has conducted research on missile defense for years and possesses the technology to protect the American people from a ballistic missile attack, political foot-dragging has prevented such a defense from being put in place.
"Clearly, it’s time for Congress and the president to make a commitment to deploy a national missile defense. Additional excuses and further delay will only erode our national security and endanger American lives.
"With rogue nations like Iran, Iraq, and N. Korea working feverishly to develop weapons of mass destruction and the missile technology to deliver them to the continental United States, there is simply no justification for leaving the American people vulnerable."
April 12, 1999...WELFARE ROLLS DECLINE TO 30 YEAR LOW - The number of individuals collecting welfare benefits has dropped by 4.6 million since the Republican-inspired welfare reform effort became law in 1996.
The law, which requires able-bodied adults to work in exchange for their welfare benefits and provides states with greater flexibility in designing welfare-to-work programs, has restored dignity to the lives of millions of Americans.
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), a leader on welfare reform issues in the House of Representatives, issued the following statement: "When Republicans took control of Congress in 1995, we pledged to empower welfare recipients to build a better life for themselves and their children.
"Our effort has been an enormous success. Since 1996, welfare rolls across the country have declined by an astonishing 38% as millions of Americans who were previously mired in a cycle of dependency and despair now have the self-respect that comes from going to work each day and earning a paycheck."
April 13, 1999...KNOLLENBERG SUPPORTS TAX LIMITATION AMENDMENT - The House of Representatives is scheduled to debate and vote today on a constitutional amendment, H.J. Res. 37, that requires a 2/3rds majority in both bodies of Congress to raise taxes.
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), an original
cosponsor of the measure, issued the following statement: "Despite
promises of lower taxes each year from Washington’s political class, the tax
burden
continues to grow larger and
larger.
"Clearly, the time has come to provide the American people with some protections against future tax increases.
"By requiring a 2/3rds majority in both the House and Senate to raise taxes, H.J.Res. 37 will make it virtually impossible for Congress to take more money from the American people in the future unless there is an urgent national need that requires doing so."
April 14, 1999...REPUBLICAN BUDGET SECURES FUTURE OF SOCIAL SECURITY, PROVIDES LARGEST TAX CUT SINCE REAGAN - The House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on a conference report to the Fiscal Year 2000 budget resolution today that contains the tax and spending priorities of the Republican majority in both the House and Senate.
This proposal strengthens the retirement security of the American people by ensuring that 100% of the Social Security surplus will be locked away for Social Security and Medicare. It calls for an $800 billion reduction in federal taxes over the next decade, the largest tax cut since Ronald Reagan’s first term as president of the United States. And it provides additional resources to improve the quality of our schools and to ensure that American troops are the best trained and equipped in the world.
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), a member of the Budget Committee, issued the following statement: "This budget establishes the right priorities for our nation. Instead of squandering the budget surplus on big government spending programs, this proposal addresses the long-term challenges facing our nation.
"It secures the future of Social Security, provides significant tax relief, and makes an investment in education and our national security.
"The policies included in this budget will keep our economy moving forward and improve the quality of life for every American."
April 21, 1999...KNOLLENBERG SUPPORTS BILL TO CUT RED TAPE AND PROVIDE SCHOOLS WITH MORE CONTROL OVER FEDERAL EDUCATION DOLLARS - The House of Representatives is scheduled to vote today on a conference report to legislation that would cut Washington red-tape and provide local school districts with greater flexibility in spending federal education dollars.
The bill, H.R. 800, the Education Flexibility Partnership Act of 1999, enjoys strong bipartisan support and is a top priority of the Republican majority in the 106th Congress.
A 1992 law provided 12 states, including Michigan, with the flexibility to waive cumbersome federal regulations governing the expenditure of federal funding for elementary and secondary education. H.R. 800 extends this authority to the remainder of the 50 states.
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg, an original co-sponsor of the measure, issued the following statement: "Washington one-size fits all mandates are soaking up education dollars and tying the hands of reformers at the state and local level. In some cases, as little as 65 cents of every education dollar ultimately reaches the classroom.
"This is outrageous. We can improve the performance of our schools and ensure that more money ends up in the classroom by giving local school districts more control over federal education dollars. That’s what H.R. 800 does, and that’s why this common-sense legislation must be enacted."
April 21, 1999...KNOLLENBERG SUPPORTS
LEGISLATION TO EMPOWER PARENTS TO SAVE FOR THEIR CHILDREN’S EDUCATION -
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) added his support today to legislation
that would increase the ability of working parents to create better learning
opportunities for
their
children.
The bill, H.R. 7, the Education Savings and Excellence Act of 1999, would increase the contribution limit for educational savings accounts from $500 to $2,000. Parents would be allowed to make penalty-free withdrawals from the accounts for a variety of educational expenses, including college and K-12 tuition, computers, books, tutoring services, and other special needs.
"Our current education system is failing our children. 12th graders in America are outperformed by their peers in 18 other countries. Forty percent of the nation's 4th graders can’t meet basic literacy standards and sixty percent of children in urban school districts are failing to achieve basic competency in reading and math.
"Clearly, something has to change. To improve the quality of our education system, we must give parents more control over their children’s education. It’s as simple as that. Educational savings accounts allow parents to save some of their hard-earned money to ensure that their kids receive the best education services available. This is common sense legislation that should be enacted as soon as possible," Knollenberg said.
H.R. 7 was introduced in the House of Representatives this afternoon by Congressman Kenny Hulshof (R-MO) and Congressman William Lipinski (D-IL). It enjoys strong bipartisan support and is a top priority of the Republican majority in the 106th Congress.
April 27, 1999...KNOLLENBERG SUPPORTS BILL TO INCREASE CABLE COMPETITION - The House of Representatives approved legislation today that will promote competition between satellite and cable television companies.
The bill, H.R. 1554, The Satellite Copyright, Competition, and Consumer Protection Act of 1999, repeals a federal ban that prohibits satellite companies from carrying local network programming.
This anti-market provision has created an unfair advantage for cable companies and stifled the efforts of lawmakers to lower cable rates through direct competition with satellite companies.
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) issued the following statement: "H.R. 1554 removes some of the barriers that have prevented true competition in the cable industry.
"This common-sense legislation will result in lower prices, better services, and more choices for the American people.
"Simply put, this bill creates a win-win situation for consumers."
April 29, 1999...ED-FLEX BILL SIGNED INTO LAW - President Clinton signed into law today one of the Republican majority’s top legislative priorities in the 106th Congress.
The measure, the Education and Flexibility Partnership Act of 1999, gives states and local school districts unprecedented flexibility in deciding how to spend federal education dollars.
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg, an original co-sponsor of the bill, issued the following statement: "For too long, one-size fits all federal mandates have soaked up limited education dollars and tied the hands of reformers at the state and local level.
"By cutting Washington red tape and providing local schools with greater control over how we educate our children, the Ed-Flex proposal that was signed into law today will improve the performance of our schools and ensure that more money ends up in the classroom.
"This is a big victory in the effort to provide better educational opportunities to America’s children."
April 29, 1999...CONTINUE AIR STRIKES AGAINST MILOSEVIC, NO U.S. GROUND TROOPS WITHOUT CONGRESSIONAL APPROVAL, KNOLLENBERG SAYS - The House of Representatives voted yesterday on four pieces of legislation that address the conflict in Kosovo. They are as follows:
"As the world’s only superpower and as the leader of NATO, the United States has a direct interest in stopping Milosevic’s reign of terror and restoring peace and stability in southeastern Europe.
"While I have reservations about the decisions that have led us to this point and feel the United States is now confronted by a series of bad options, I believe it’s important for NATO to continue the air strikes against the Yugoslav army until Milosevic acquiesces to our demands. We must be firm in our commitment to bring this Balkan thug to his knees. The credibility of the United States and NATO depends on it.
"While the Clinton Administration has repeatedly declared that it would not place American ground troops into Yugoslavia as part of a combat mission, many military experts have argued that such a deployment will be necessary to achieve our foreign policy objectives.
"Given the risks involved with this policy, I feel very strongly that the Clinton Administration must receive congressional approval before deepening our involvement in this conflict."
May 5, 1999...KNOLLENBERG SUPPORTS BANKRUPTCY REFORM BILL - The House of Representatives is scheduled to vote today on legislation to reform the nation's bankruptcy laws.
The bill, H.R. 833, The Bankruptcy Reform Act of 1999, restores personal responsibility by closing loopholes in our bankruptcy system that allow individuals who can afford to pay their debts to avoid their financial obligations.
It also includes a provision authored by U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) that eliminates the arbitrary ceiling on single asset bankruptcies that has prevented creditors from foreclosing on assets valued at more than $4 million.
Knollenberg, who intends to vote yes on H.R. 833, issued the following statement: "While it’s important to provide protection to individuals overwhelmed by debt, recent trends indicate that filing for bankruptcy has become a first stop instead of last resort for millions of Americans.
"H.R. 833 includes reforms that will strengthen the integrity of our bankruptcy laws and ensure that individuals who can afford to pay their debts are not let off the hook.
"I am particularly pleased that this bill addresses the injustice in the current law regarding single asset bankruptcies. By eliminating the arbitrary $4 million cap on these assets, H.R. 833 removes the legal shield that has enabled unscrupulous commercial property owners to postpone foreclosure on delinquent property indefinitely."
May 6, 1999...KNOLLENBERG SUPPORTS FUNDING FOR TROOPS IN KOSOVO - The House of Representatives is scheduled to vote today on a $12.9 billion emergency funding measure for fiscal year 1999.
The bill, which provides funding for the American troops taking part in the military operations in Yugoslavia and addresses other national security needs, is expected to pass with bipartisan support.
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), a member of the
House Appropriations Committee, issued the
following statement: "President Clinton has created a
national security emergency by cutting the defense budget while spreading our
troops around the world.
"From 1960 to 1991, the Army conducted 10 operational events. In the last eight years, the Army has conducted 26 operational events. Strangely enough, this increased activity has taken place during a period in which our military has been reduced by 40%.
"The effects of this misguided policy are playing themselves out in Yugoslavia. Already the president has had to call up 25,000 reserves and divert planes from the strategically-important Iraqi No-Fly Zone to carry out the air strikes against Milosevic’s regime.
"The $12.9 billion provided in this bill will ensure that our troops receive the resources they need to carry out their mission and begin to rebuild our national defenses which have been weakened substantially by Clinton’s neglect."
May 24, 1999...KNOLLENBERG CALLS FOR MEASURES TO STRENGTHEN SMALL BUSINESS - This week, May 23-30, has been designated as national Small Business Week. U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) issued the following statement in recognition of the special role small businesses play in our country: "Small businesses are vital to our economy and communities. They account for 99.7% of the nation's employers, employ 53% of the private work force, and are responsible for 50% of the private gross domestic product in the United States.
"Despite these enormous contributions, small businesses still have to struggle under the weight of excessive taxation and unnecessary regulation handed down by the federal government.
"These misguided policies are driving down wages and
hindering the ability of entrepreneurs to create new jobs for the American
people. "Clearly, the time has come for Congress and the president to
provide some relief
to small business
owners by cutting taxes and reigning in overzealous regulators.
"I stand ready to work with my colleagues to promote an agenda that strengthens small businesses and creates new economic opportunities for the American people.
Knollenberg, a successful small businessman before being elected to Congress, has been one of the strongest supporters of small businesses in the House of Representatives. He has been honored by the National Federation of Independent Businesses, the nation's largest small business organization, for his efforts to promote economic growth through free trade, regulatory reform, and tax cuts.
May 26, 1999...KNOLLENBERG SUPPORTS BILL TO LOCK AWAY 100% OF SOCIAL SECURITY SURPLUS FOR SOCIAL SECURITY AND MEDICARE - The House of Representatives is scheduled to vote today on legislation, H.R. 1259, the Social Security and Medicare Safe Deposit Act, that would lock away $1.8 trillion over the next ten years to strengthen the retirement security of the American people.
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), a member of the House Budget Committee and a supporter of the bill, issued the following statement: "For years, Congress and the president have raided the Social Security trust fund to pay for wasteful Washington programs.
"With Social Security and Medicare facing serious financial challenges in the near future, this dishonest practice must come to an end.
"H.R. 1259 locks away 100% of the Social Security surplus to ensure that current and future retirees receive the retirement benefits they deserve.
"This common sense bill restores integrity to the Social Security trust fund and prepares our nation to handle the retirement of the baby-boom generation."
May 28, 1999...LIBERAL DEMOCRAT JOINS KNOLLENBERG EFFORT TO HALT KYOTO TREATY - The Clinton Administration's attempt to promote the Kyoto treaty on global climate change suffered another blow this week as Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren, a liberal Democrat from California, offered an amendment to H.R. 1743, the EPA Office of Air and Radiation Authorization Act, that prohibits the EPA from issuing rules or regulations to implement the agreement until it has been ratified by the Senate.
Lofgren’s amendment was approved during the House Science Committee’s consideration of this important bill. U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), a staunch opponent of the Kyoto treaty, applauded this development.
"I am pleased that Congresswoman Lofgren has joined my effort to prevent the Clinton Administration from implementing the Kyoto treaty through backdoor regulatory actions.
"This fatally-flawed agreement would cripple our economy, send American jobs overseas, and erode the standard of living in our nation. Given the stakes involved, Congress must remain vigilant in protecting America’s economic interests by opposing the Kyoto treaty."
Knollenberg, who serves on the House Appropriations Subcommittee that is responsible for funding the EPA, included a provision in last year's budget that prevents the agency from moving forward with the Kyoto treaty prior to Senate ratification. Lofgren’s amendment is almost identical to Knollenberg’s language.
"There is strong bipartisan opposition to the Kyoto treaty because it’s a bad deal for the American people. With liberal Democrats like Zoe Lofgren coming out in opposition to this agreement, it’s clear that the Clinton Administration's agenda is in deep trouble," Knollenberg concluded.
June 4, 1999...UNEMPLOYMENT RATE AT 29-YEAR LOW - The nation's unemployment rate has fallen to a 29-year low of 4.2 percent according to a report released today by the U.S. Department of Labor.
U.S Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) issued the following statement in response to this good news: "The latest economic numbers provide the American people with a reason to confident about our economy and the future of our nation.
"With low interest rates, almost non-existent inflation, and an unemployment rate that has reached a 29-year low, the American economy is undoubtedly the envy of the world.
"However, to keep our economy moving forward and to improve the standard of living in the United States, Congress and the president must be proactive in advancing a legislative agenda that includes significant tax relief, regulatory reform, and free trade.
"As a member of the House of Representatives, I stand ready to promote policies that strengthen the ability of American businesses to expand and create better paying jobs for the American people."
June 7, 1999...DEMOCRATIC POLL SHOWS SENIORS RALLYING BEHIND CONGRESSIONAL GOP - Roll Call, a biweekly newspaper that covers events on Capitol Hill, reported today that a survey conducted for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) found that senior citizens prefer Republicans over Democrats by a margin of 12 points in the battle for control of the House of Representatives.
This show of support for the GOP bodes well for the party’s chances in next year's election and indicates that its message on Social Security, Medicare, and taxes is resonating with elderly voters.
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), a leader in the House of Representatives on issues that concern seniors, issued the following statement on the DCCC poll: "My Republican colleagues and I have made a commitment to improve the retirement security of the American people.
"We passed a budget resolution that strengthens Social Security and Medicare by locking away 100% of the Social Security surplus for these valuable programs.
"And we are working to provide tax relief to seniors by cutting the estate tax, eliminating the earnings limitation on Social Security benefits, and repealing President Clinton’s 1993 tax increase on Social Security benefits.
"This common-sense agenda will improve the quality of life for senior citizens which explains why they are rallying behind our efforts."
June 16, 1999...KNOLLENBERG CALLS ON HOLLYWOOD TO CLEAN UP ITS ACT - U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) feels that its time for the entertainment industry to acknowledge the enormous influence it has over children and to begin exercising some responsibility and common decency when making and marketing its products.
"There is no doubt that the graphic violence being peddled by Hollywood has contributed to the wave of juvenile crime that is sweeping our nation.
"By the time the average American child reaches the age of 18, he or she will have seen over 200,000 acts of violence and 16,000 murders on television and in the movies.
"This is not entertainment. This is an outrage, and it’s time for Congress, parents, and other concerned parents to speak out against the senseless acts of violence that are pervading our popular culture."
Knollenberg and Congresswoman Jo Ann Emerson (R-MO) are sponsoring an amendment to a juvenile crime bill, H.R. 1501, that expresses the sense of Congress that the entertainment industry should do everything in its power to eliminate gratuitous violence in movies, television, music, and video games.
H.R. 1501 is a comprehensive response to the problems that were manifested in the tragic school shooting in Littleton, CO. Specifically, it provides states and local communities with $1.5 billion to establish grassroots solutions to youth violence and delinquency. In exchange for receiving the funds, states are required to adopt tougher penalties for juvenile crimes.
June 17, 1999...KNOLLENBERG BLASTS SENATE DEMOCRATS FOR BLOCKING EFFORT TO STRENGTHEN SOCIAL SECURITY AND MEDICARE - U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), a strong defender of the retirement security of the American people, criticized Senate Democrats for blocking the passage of the Social Security and Medicare Safe Deposit Act.
This bill, which passed the House of Representatives on May 26, 1999 by a resounding vote of 416-12, locks away 100% of the Social Security surplus for Social Security and Medicare.
This week 44 Democratic Senators voted against bringing this much-needed bill to a vote. This action ensured that the Republican majority in the Senate would not have the 60 votes it needs to move forward on this important issue.
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) issued the following statement in response to the irresponsible tactics of the Senate Democrats: "The Social Security and Medicare Safe Deposit Act would set aside $1.8 trillion over the next decade to strengthen the retirement security of the American people.
"This common sense bill ends the dishonest practice of raiding the Social Security trust fund to pay for wasteful Washington spending and makes a giant step forward in the effort to prepare for the retirement of the baby-boom generation.
"Senate Democrats should be ashamed of themselves for playing politics with this important issue. I call upon President Clinton and the House Democrats who voted for this important bill to urge their colleagues in the Senate to stop playing games with the retirement security of the American people."
June 23, 1999...KNOLLENBERG BACKS FLAG PROTECTION AMENDMENT - The House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on a constitutional amendment today that would provide Congress with the authority to pass a law prohibiting the burning or desecration of the American flag.
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), a strong supporter
of the measure, issued the following
statement: "The flag is not just a piece of cloth. It’s a
symbol that reflects the values, struggles, and storied
history of our great nation.
"The American people realize this simple truth and have urged Congress to protect the flag every since the Supreme Court ruled in 1989 that burning and desecrating Old Glory was protected speech under the First Amendment.
"While public opinion on most issues tends to be volatile, every reliable survey conducted on this issue over the last decade has shown that almost 75% of the American people believe that it should be illegal to burn, trample, or destroy our flag.
"It’s time for Congress to listen to the American people and honor our flag by passing this important amendment to our Constitution."
June 23, 1999...TRANSPORTATION BILL BENEFITS SOUTHEASTERN MICHIGAN - By a resounding vote of 429-3, the House of Representatives approved H.R. 2084, the fiscal year 2000 transportation appropriations bill, today. The measure provides $50.4 billion for the nation's transportation needs.
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), a member of the House Appropriations Committee, included a provision in the bill that prevents the Clinton Administration from raising CAFÉ standards, which are currently 27.5 mpg for passenger cars and 20.7 mpg for light trucks.
Knollenberg is concerned that the Clinton Administration will attempt to hike CAFÉ standards to pursue its goals on global climate change. A strong defender of the interests of American automobile industry, he has included his CAFÉ freeze language in the federal budget each year since fiscal year 96.
"Complying with the mandates in the fatally-flawed Kyoto treaty would require an increase in CAFÉ standards. There’s no way around it, and such an increase would have a chilling effect on Michigan’s economy by restricting the ability of domestic auto makers to produce the vehicles the American people want to buy.
"Make no mistake about it: Higher CAFÉ standards would require American auto makers to reduce the size of their vehicles and offer fewer amenities to consumers. This would provide a competitive advantage to our foreign competitors, diminish vehicle safety, and lead to more highway fatalities.
"Given the lack of sound science on global climate change, there is no reason for moving forward with regulatory schemes that would kill American jobs and erode the standard of living in our country."
Knollenberg also secured $3 million in the bill for the Southeastern Michigan Snow and Ice Management (SEMSIM) project. This innovative partnership will provide Oakland, Wayne, and Macomb Counties and the city of Detroit with state of the art technology that will improve the management and effectiveness of winter storm operations in the region.
It has been estimated that SEMSIM, when fully implemented in 2002, will reduce the $20 million that is spent each year to remove snow and ice from the roadways in metropolitan Detroit by 10%. In Oakland County, the savings are projected to be as high as $600,000 to $700,000 a year.
"The SEMSIM project is a smart investment that will ultimately reduce the cost of winter storm operations and improve the safety of the roads in our communities," Knollenberg concluded.
June 24, 1999...KNOLLENBERG BLASTS EPA FOR VIOLATING CONGRESSIONAL BAN ON KYOTO TREATY - U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), the leading opponent of the Kyoto treaty in the House of Representatives, castigated the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today for attempting to implement this fatally-flawed agreement through tactics that violate federal law.
"The EPA is up to its old tricks again," Knollenberg said. "I don't trust this heavy-handed agency as far as I can throw it, and I urge all of my colleagues who are concerned about America’s economic well-being to speak out against this latest attempt to ram the Kyoto treaty through the backdoor.
Knollenberg’s comments came in response to the EPA’s efforts to establish an early action crediting program between the United States and Russia. This scheme, which would provide incentives for U.S. companies to take steps to comply with the Kyoto treaty, directly violates a provision Knollenberg included in last year's budget that prohibits the EPA from moving forward with the agreement until it has been ratified by the Senate.
"The EPA pays lip service to congressional intent when scrutinized by the media or members of Congress, and then, when the spotlight has been turned off, it does exactly what it said it wouldn’t do.
"This recalcitrant attitude can no longer be tolerated. Make no mistake about it: If the EPA has its way on the Kyoto treaty, millions of Americans will lose their jobs and see their standard of living plummet as energy prices go through the roof.
"Given the stakes involved, Congress must be vigilant in defending the ban on backdoor implementation of the Kyoto treaty. To do anything less would be a grave disservice to the American people," Knollenberg said.
June 29, 1999...SURPLUS LARGER THAN
EXPECTED, KNOLLENBERG CALLS FOR ACROSS THE BOARD INCOME TAX CUT -
According to numbers released yesterday by the Office of Management and Budget,
the federal government is projected to run a budget surplus over the next 15
years
that is $1 trillion higher than the
amount estimated earlier this year.
U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), a member of the House Appropriations and Budget Committees, seized on this good news to reiterate his call for a major tax cut.
"There will never be a better time to cut taxes. With the economy strong and the federal government running a giant surplus, Congress and the president have an historic opportunity to improve the standard of living in our nation by passing a tax cut that benefits everyone who pays federal income taxes.
"An across the board income tax cut is the simplest and fairest way to provide the American people with the tax relief they deserve. This common-sense proposal would increase the average family’s take-home pay by almost $1,000 a year.
"This is real money that could be saved for college tuition or put aside for a down payment on a first home. Either way, I know that it will be put to better use by the family who earned it than by the Washington bureaucrat who yearns for it."
On the opening day of the 106th Congress, Knollenberg introduced H.R. 104, the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1999. This proposal cuts federal income tax rates by 10% across the board.