Rep. Courtney Statement on President Obama's Address to Joint-Session of Congress

Statement

Rep. Courtney Statement on President Obama's Address to Joint-Session of Congress

Congressman Joe Courtney issued the following statement in response to President Barack Obama's address to the joint-session of Congress:

"Our economy is in desperate need of repair, and I appreciate the President's optimistic yet reality-driven approach to our nation's recovery. The President and this Congress have taken important steps to rebuild America and to create millions of new jobs, but more must be done to strengthen the future of our country for generations to come."

"I share President Obama's vision for an improved health care system. We cannot maintain the status quo any longer that forces millions of working families into bankruptcy when medical emergencies arise. Bold action is necessary in the next few years to improve the quality, affordability and accessibility of health care."

"Dependence on oil has entangled our country in unnecessary conflicts and complicated our foreign policy for decades and we must undertake a coast-to-coast campaign to diversify our fuel resources to accommodate a changing world. Investing in innovative new fuel technology and harnessing the Earth's wind, water and solar energy is the path we must follow."

"Right here in Connecticut, companies are incorporating solar and geothermal technology into their energy portfolio to cut costs and improve efficiency. Other companies in eastern Connecticut are developing advanced new technology and the government can and should play a greater role in helping foster ingenuity and bring workable alternative fuel resources to the marketplace. We will only be successful in cutting our ties to oil if alternative energy resources are made more available and affordable to households across the country."

"'Big ideas' cannot succeed without the foundation of a proper and comprehensive education that will make our nation more competitive globally. We must modernize our elementary and secondary schools with highly-skilled educators and cutting edge buildings to create a well-rounded and productive learning environment. And, going further, costs should not be a barrier for prospective students to a college education. As a Member of the House Education and Labor Committee, I firmly believe that investing in education will have a positive and long-term impact on our country."

"We have many challenges before us, and we should consider all remedies and voices to craft solutions. I am nearing the completion of a five Town Hall tour of the Second Congressional District and have listened to my constituents who have shared many passionate suggestions for building a brighter future for Connecticut and the United States. Now is the time for big ideas and Washington must move the ball forward - there is no time to waste."

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