Dave's Weekly Wrap: February 8, 2015

Statement

Friends,

I came to Congress to find responsible solutions to our nation's problems. With the support of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, I did just that. Here's a look at some things that happened this week:

The President's Budget

President Obama released his budget proposal for the next year on Tuesday. While there are a number of components to the budget that I am opposed to, like the fact that it includes $2.1 Trillion in new tax increases and never, ever balances, I was particularly disappointed that his proposal cuts funds to the Great Lakes.

A national treasure right here on our shores, the President would cut $50 million in funding from the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative - a series of programs that are proven to protect and preserve our environmental and economic powerhouse. I've been leading the charge in the House to fight for the Great Lakes and it is unfortunate when the President makes it clear that the Great Lakes are not his priority.

Government Transparency

We passed, with bipartisan support, H.R. 50, the Unfunded Mandates Information and Transparency Act of 2015 on Wednesday. Now, I know that's a mouthful, but this is a bill that requires greater transparency of costs associated with unfunded mandates. It requires federal agencies to consult those who would be impacted by federal regulations before implementing them. This is a common-sense solution that will improve transparency as well hold the government accountable to the American people. I'm doing everything I can to advance common-sense solutions for government reform and this bipartisan bill does just that.

Small Biz Reg Flex Act

On Thursday, we passed another strong bipartisan bill H.R. 527, the Small Business Regulatory Flexibility Improvements Act of 2015. We called this bill the "Small Biz Reg Flex Act" which, of course, is another nickname that needs some work. This legislation gives millions of small business owners and their employees the voice they deserve when it comes to the regulations that they have to deal with.

One of the simple things this bill does is clarifies that agencies have to consider indirect economic effects as well as direct economic effects. For example, it takes into account the cost to the consumer as well as cost to the manufacturer. That sounds like Northeast Ohio common sense to me.

Stay In Touch

I appreciate you taking the time to read my Weekly Wrap. Though my kids certainly know more than me when it comes to technology, I make a big effort to connect with my constituents via social media by posting often. So, if you'd like to stay more up to date about what's going on in Congress and how I am working for you, I hope you'll follow me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

It is an honor to serve you,

Dave

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