Report from Congress - Wicker Supports Competitiveness Agenda

REPORT FROM CONGRESS
By Congressman Roger F. Wicker

WICKER SUPPORTS COMPETITIVENESS AGENDA
July 12, 2004

The House of Representatives is in the midst of an eight-week effort to boost competitiveness and ensure that America remains the land of opportunity. The wide-ranging agenda is designed to give U. S. businesses and working families the tools to meet challenges in our global marketplace.

The comprehensive package addresses tax, trade, and regulatory matters, education issues, health care, energy policy, research and development, and litigation reform. I hope the initiatives will help remove obstacles to job creation and equip workers with skills to fill those jobs in the 21st century job market.

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

Last week the emphasis was on sharpening the technological edge that has spurred innovation, increased productivity, and economic growth. One measure would authorize grants to develop new manufacturing technologies, and another would help small- and medium-sized firms improve efficiency and enhance product development. A third initiative would fund research and development on the next generation of supercomputers.

In the coming days, the agenda will include legislation affecting trade fairness and opportunity, tax relief and simplification, and ending lawsuit abuse.

ACTION ON HEALTH CARE

The House has already acted on a health security plan that would allow workers to save up to $500 per year in a flexible account to pay for health costs. A second component would enable small businesses to join associated health plans to purchase insurance for employees, and a third bill places limits on punitive damages in medical malpractice cases.

Easing the burden of federal regulation and cutting government paperwork requirements are key components in any effort to improve competitiveness. The House approved measures to ensure that companies get more equitable and timely consideration of issues raised by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The plan also includes revisions to the Paperwork and Regulatory Improvements Act to reduce the time and money companies spend filling out government forms.

Today's students are tomorrow's workforce, and their potential for success is enhanced by highly-trained and experienced teachers. The House has approved a measure to strengthen teacher training programs and boost the quality of instruction in our nation's classrooms. A second bill targets federal aid toward increasing graduate level study in subjects facing shortages at the K-12 level. The focus would be on producing more math, science, and special education teachers.

ENERGY POLICY NEEDED

Enacting a national energy policy is another element in the plan to keep American business competitive in the world economy. It is also critical to national security. Reducing our dependence on foreign energy sources must continue to be a high priority. The legislation approved by the House in June provides for more domestic oil and gas exploration, conservation, and development of alternative fuels.

The summer-long emphasis on such an ambitious agenda reflects the importance Congress has placed on improving competitiveness and creating more job opportunities in cities large and small across America.