Newsletter: We Will Never Forget

Statement

Yesterday, September 11th, marked the 13th anniversary of the worst terrorist attack ever carried out on American soil. Much like other monumental events that have shaped our world, we all remember where we were and what we were doing that morning. I know I do. Over 3000 innocent Americans lost their lives that day. The bravery, courage and generosity of first responders, firefighters, police, ordinary citizens, and countless others in the aftermath, was as moving and inspiring as the destruction was horrific.

In the years since September 11, 2001, we have confronted the terrorists responsible for those acts and made them pay dearly. As we mark this anniversary and pay our respects, we must recognize that extremism and terrorism is still alive. The rise of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria has driven this point home recently. We must recognize that the enemies of freedom around the world still seek to harm us. We must remain vigilant so that the tragedy of September 11, 2001 is never, ever repeated again.

You Can Keep Your Health Care If You Like It

We all remember President Obama's promises when he was selling his plan to the American people. He promised that you could keep your health plan, you could keep your doctor, and premiums would be reduced. All of those promises have been broken.

Last year, millions of Americans across the country had their health plans cancelled despite being told that if liked it they could keep it. This week the House took another step to help American workers by passing the Employee Healthcare Protection Act (HR 3522).This bill would help Americans keep their health plans and give small businesses and their employees the option to choose non-Obamacare compliant plans -- giving them access to more affordable options that can better meet their needs.

This fall as many as 50 million families who have insurance from group plans could start receiving cancellation notices because their plan doesn't meet burdensome requirements required under the healthcare law - this legislation will allow people the flexibility to keep their plan if they like it.

Our office has heard from thousands of constituents who have been negatively impacted by Obamacare and the personal and economic costs of this law. Please know that, despite the Senate's inaction, the House will continue to act to find ways to address the problems Americans face.

Preventing Harmful EPA Overreach

For months my office has been hearing from hundreds of constituents in the agricultural community from all corners of the district concerned about a dangerous proposed rule from the EPA to redefine "waters of the U.S." This week the House took action to prevent this drastic overreach by the EPA and voted to stop the proposed rule. The rule would give the federal government authority to regulate bodies of water as small as ditches and puddles, which would place excessive burdens on family farmers and other small businesses.

The bill passed the House with strong bipartisan support.

The "Waters of the U.S." rule is just the latest example of the EPA's overreach. If this rule goes into effect it will hurt family farmers and small businesses and mean fewer jobs for hardworking West Virginians. I've visited West Virginia farms and seen what the EPA wants to regulate. These ditches and puddles only have water when it rains. It defies common sense to punish farmers for something Mother Nature controls.

President Obama and the EPA need to listen as well and back off from this dangerous proposal.

This common sense plan is just the latest bill the House has passed that would help grow the economy, create jobs, and help Americans who are struggling in the Obama economy. The bill passed today will join 43 other jobs bills stuck in the Senate.

Recognition for Leadership on Access to Treatments

Many patients have trouble getting access to treatments for chronic, disabling, and life threatening conditions such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, some forms of cancer, and primary immunodeficiency diseases. In response I introduced the Patient Access to Treatments Act (PATA), which would enable millions of insured American access to these critical treatments.

For efforts in this area, the American College of Rheumatology recognized me with a leadership award. This is an honor, and I will continue fighting to ensure patient access to treatment and care.

Mountaineers Off to a Great Start

Big things are happening at WVU this year. With a new President, new initiatives and a new football season there are plenty of reasons to be proud of the Mountaineer Nation.

WVU has been off to an explosive start this season on the field. The season opener against the Alabama Crimson Tide was a vigorous effort, achieving the second-most passing yards allowed by Alabama under coach Nick Saban. The Mountaineers then defeated the Towson Tigers 54-0 in a overwhelming victory, showing just how efficient QB Clint Trickett has become. There is no shortage of talent on this team and they are much better equipped to deal with Maryland this Saturday in College Park. Let's go Mountaineers!

Constituent Meetings

This week, I met a number of constituent groups, including member from the WV Automobile and Truck Dealers Association:

If you are ever in the Washington D.C. office please drop in and say hello. If you want an appointment just give my office a call at 202-225-4172, or submit a request on my website at www.mckinley.house.gov.

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