Straight Talk: Major Decisions

Statement

Dear Friends,
Congress was back in Washington this week, following a district work period in August that allowed Members to reconnect with their constituents at home. At home and in Washington, the debate continues about the fiscal direction our country is taking. The economy is still in a very slow recovery, and small businesses face many hurdles. The most recent NFIB survey showed a slight drop in optimism last month for small firms, who are still waiting out the uncertainty.

The cost of implementing the health care law continues to soar, even while parts of the implementation are delayed by the administration's inability to meet deadlines. Despite those delays, many small businesses may be unaware they could face daily fees that are not delayed. This kind of lack of information from the administration and the sheer volume of the requirements has been an ongoing concern for small businesses. The consequences are grim. News reports continue to reveal that businesses large and small are cutting back part time employees' hours -- an undesirable result of this law -- while 11.3 million Americans need jobs and 7.9 million more can only find part time work.

This economic uncertainty is intensified by widespread concerns over the burdensome national debt, which will again reach a legal limit next month. Will the President admit the nation's serious debt and spending problem -- and its role in slowing the economy -- or will he continue to demand more of the unsustainable cycle of borrowing and spending? The country faces some major decisions.

Sincerely,

Sam Graves
Chairman

Source