The Ledger - Ross Cites Examples of Bipartisan Cooperation on Capitol Hill

News Article

By Bill Ruffy

Congress, while still labeled as do-nothing and confrontational by some, has shown some bipartisan cooperation this year, U.S. Rep. Dennis Ross told members of the Polk County

Ross, a Lakeland Republican seeking election to a third term in the U.S. House, said when he first arrived in Washington at the beginning of his term in 2011, the polarization was extreme.

But there are changes, he said. Republicans and Democrats have reached across the aisle to one another on at least the budget, citrus greening research within an overdue farm bill, and flood insurance changes.

"For the first time in 5½years, Congress has actually passed a budget. Prior to that, we were functioning off of continuing resolutions," he said.

Ross said a farm bill had been held up until a little bipartisanship showed up, but it was passed with $125 million for citrus greening research within its appropriations over the next five years.

One of the most bipartisan moves in the session was a "fix" to the federal flood insurance program two weeks ago.

"Just as many Democrats as Republicans voted for it," he said.

A bill two years ago gave incentives for people building in floodplains, he said. Then insurance increased, and many people simply walked away from their property, he said.

Ross said the flood insurance bill is transitional, and prices on the insurance will rise eventually.

"I am filing a bill with Sen. (Dean) Heller of Nevada that would allow states to license and authorize private companies to sell flood insurance and create competition, which could lower costs," Ross said.

And another bipartisan bill this year?

"I believe there is a window of opportunity for immigration reform to pass before the August recess," he said.

"I do not see a bill coming out of the House with a path to citizenship or amnesty, but it will address border security, agricultural workforce and construction workforce," Ross said.

"It will include an expanded visa program for those here for education, economic development and investment," Ross said.

"I believe there is a window of opportunity for immigration reform to pass before the August recess," he said.

"I do not see a bill coming out of the House with a path to citizenship or amnesty, but it will address border security, agricultural workforce and construction workforce," Ross said.

"It will include an expanded visa program for those here for education, economic development and investment," Ross said.

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