Paulsen Post

Statement

Dear Friends,

Here is an update on a few items of interest in Washington and the Third District. As always, don't hesitate to contact me with your questions or concerns. Have a great weekend and keep in touch!

Erik Paulsen
Member of Congress

Congress Adjourns Leaving Critical Tax and Budget Legislation on the Table

Last night, Congress adjourned without taking action on its most important piece of legislative business: stopping upcoming tax increases. Starting in January, $3.8 trillion in tax increases will hit nearly every American: higher taxes on seniors, on families, on the middle class and on small business owners. I shared my concerns with the Star Tribune this morning, "it would be a big mistake for the Democratic leadership not to have a vote prior to the election." Unfortunately, that's exactly what happened.

Also, for the first time since 1974, Congress did not adopt a budget, but instead put all federal spending on autopilot with what is known as a "continuing resolution," that is effective through December 3rd.

Such blatant disregard for fiscal responsibility by Congressional Leadership shows Congress is broken, not listening to the American people, and delaying a much needed economic recovery. One bright spot is that 47 Democrats have gone on record supporting the extension of all tax cuts.

Stopping Wasteful Government Spending

Yesterday, I took to the House floor a bill that would rescind unspent funds from the Troubled Asset Relief Program, or TARP bailout program, as part of the weekly YouCut initiative. Unfortunately, the measure failed and the spending spree continues.

Military Survivor Housing Assistance Legislation

Earlier this week, the House passed H.R. 6058, the Wounded Warrior and Military Survivor Housing Assistance Act of 2010 . I am proud to have authored this important, bi-partisan legislation along with my colleague Rep. Walt Minnick (ID-01). This legislation directs the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Veterans Administration to account for the special needs of members of the Armed Forces with service-connected injuries. It also extends to survivors and dependents of these veterans by taking into account their housing and mortgage insurance program needs.

Recent Honors

I was recently recognized for my efforts to protect your interests here in Congress.

First, I am proud to be named a "Guardian of Small Business" by the National Federation of Independent Business. The NFIB is the leading small business association representing small and independent businesses in America, and I was honored to be recognized for my strong voting record in support of small business.

It was also a great honor to accept an award on behalf of the city of Edina: The America's Promise Alliance award for Edina being named one of the "100 Best Communities for Young People."

Source