David Reichert RSS Articles

Reichert Supports Fiscally Responsible Medicare Access Bill

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-08) today rejected a bill that would increase Medicare Part B premiums and add more than $260 billion to the federal deficit. The House passed the legislation, H.R. 3961, by a vote of 243-183.

“Our current system of reimbursing doctors for treating Medicare patients is in need of reform to ensure that physicians are appropriately compensated and our seniors’ access to care is not jeopardized, and I’ve long supported efforts to bring a permanent fix to this problem,” said Reichert. “While this bill purports to preserve seniors’ access to care, it does so through a hidden tax on their Medicare Part B premiums. Once again, our seniors get the short end of the stick – first with $500 billion in cuts to Medicare in the health care overhaul bill, and now a hidden tax. With health care costs soaring and threatening seniors’ health benefits, it makes no sense to suggest that we can preserve seniors’ access by demanding that they pay more for it.”

Reichert continued, “I sincerely hope that people in my district, and across America, understand the political sleight-of-hand that took place today that further penalizes our seniors. The question we need to be asking here is: why did Speaker Pelosi pull this $260 billion “reform” from the larger health care overhaul bill? Ensuring physicians can treat seniors on Medicare should be included in any health care reform legislation, to fix the problem in a way that’s responsible, transparent, open with taxpayers, and doesn’t hurt seniors or mortgage our children’s futures.”

Reichert supported an alternative today that would provide physicians with a competitive increase in payments for doctors, with reform in the legislation to compensate for the increases by implementing comprehensive, meaningful medical liability reform, ending junk lawsuits and costly defensive medicine by protecting doctors from overzealous trial lawyers.

Congressman Reichert has long-supported efforts to bring a permanent fix to the Medicare physician payment system. Today’s House-passed legislation, according to the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office, will cost $260 billion, with $210 billion in deficit spending and $50 billion paid for by Medicare beneficiaries in the form of higher Part B premiums. The legislation would also:

•   Allow physician payment rates to be slashed if government spending targets are exceeded;
•   Tie spending targets to the Gross Domestic Product; and
•   Tie Physician reimbursement rates to utilization, continuing to punish providers who focus on delivering high-quality care while rewarding those who focus on volume.

Trade: The forgotten stimulus

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Cross-posted from the Heritage Foundation blog, The Foundry

President Obama’s trip to Asia this week comes at a critical economic time for American workers. With unemployment eclipsing 10 percent, it’s clear that the stimulus package passed by Congress has so far proven ineffective in getting Americans back to work.

Free trade, a pillar of economic recovery that has been overlooked, plays a pivotal role in growing our economy and creating American jobs. Opening new markets to trade is a proven stimulus and job creator that comes without a several hundred billion dollar bill for taxpayers.

Among the many stops on his trip this week, President Obama will visit South Korea, a critical trading partner for the U.S. and one with whom we’ve had a free trade agreement pending congressional approval for more than two years. This visit presents the President the perfect opportunity to convey to the world that the U.S. remains open to global trade, and to assure American workers we will continue to support them and pursue every opportunity to create jobs and spur innovation.

Whether large or small, American businesses across the country produce the very best goods and services, but 95% of our customers are outside of the United States. Their customers are not only on Main Street but in ports, cities and communities across the globe. We can create U.S. jobs by knocking down barriers between the products and services and those who demand them.

Just as enacting pending trade agreements can stimulate job creation, inaction can result in further job losses. America cannot afford to stand on the sidelines and fail to act while our competitors forge ahead to open new markets to benefit their countries, citizens and economies. A recent U.S. Chamber of Commerce study revealed that we could lose 350,000 American jobs if we do not enact the US-South Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) before the European Union implements an agreement of its own.

America must not just participate in the global economy; we must lead the global economy. Thus far, this Administration’s trade agenda – or rather, its lack thereof – is disappointing. In fact, this Administration’s only significant trade action was to impose a protectionist new tariff on tire imports, while pending free trade agreements with South Korea, Colombia, and Panama continue to languish without congressional consideration.

Our lagging economy demands action, and a robust trade agenda will deliver a much-needed shot in the arm.

While meaningful debate over trade often falls victim to partisan politics that distort the issues at hand, the Administration should heed to the voices recognizing the role trade plays to stimulate economic recovery. On November 5, 44 House Democrats and 44 House Republicans from all regions of the country joined Representative Adam Smith (D-WA) and me in urging the Administration to prepare the KORUS FTA for congressional consideration.
These supporters note: “Trade, especially when fair and with a close trading partner, is integral to our economic recovery strategy. …we are concerned about the potential impact on U.S. competitiveness and jobs by not moving forward on KORUS.”

The U.S. must continue to push for free trade agreements that can stimulate job creation across the country. Americans are seeking proven, common-sense solutions for economic recovery that will stabilize and secure our workforce.

Foreign markets demand U.S. goods and services and capable workers stand ready to produce them. Let us act now to remove the barriers preventing American employers from engaging new customers around the world, and once and for all recognize that free trade is the crucial economic stimulus that can no longer be overlooked.

National Education Association Endorses Reichert, Tanner Teacher Tax Relief Act

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-08) and Congressman John Tanner (TN-08) today announced that the National Education Association (NEA) endorsed the Teacher Tax Relief Act (H.R. 3758), a proposal that would both increase and make permanent the maximum tax deduction available for educators purchasing classroom supplies out-of-pocket and pursuing qualified professional development.

In a letter to the Representatives, NEA states, in part:

On behalf of the National Education Association's (NEA) 3.2 million members, we would like to thank you for your leadership in introducing the Teacher Tax Relief Act (H.R 3758). …The educator tax deduction helps recognize the financial sacrifices made by teachers and paraprofessionals, who often reach into their own pockets to purchase classroom supplies such as books, pencils, paper, and art supplies. …By increasing the current deduction and making it permanent, your legislation will make a real difference for many educators, who often must sacrifice other personal needs in order to pay for classroom supplies. Ongoing professional development is essential to ensure that educators stay up-to-date on the skills and knowledge necessary to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century. H.R. 3758 will make a critical difference in helping educators access quality training.

“I’m pleased to accept the NEA’s endorsement of this bill,” Reichert said. “Today, school districts across the country are dealing with budget cuts, and our teachers are left to pick up the slack. This legislation would help ease the burden for those educators who accept the responsibility to guide our children’s education and purchase needed classroom supplies out of their own pockets. I’m committed to standing with our teachers by increasing and expanding this tax relief, and I thank the NEA for its vital support.”

"We are proud to work with educators to provide the classroom resources and continuing-education opportunities that can help our young people be successful in school and after graduation," Congressman Tanner said. "Our teachers play a crucial role in our communities and in our economic security, and this is another way we can express our appreciation and support."

Background
The classroom expense deduction available for teachers is set to expire on December 31, 2009. This has created unnecessary uncertainty for teachers throughout the country, who daily are footing the bill for basic classroom supplies.

The National School Supply and Equipment Association found that for the 2005-2006 school year, educators spent out of their own pockets an average of $826 for supplies and $926 for instructional materials – for a total of $1,752. Additionally, a National Education Association report, Status of the American Public School Teacher 2000-2001, revealed that teachers spent an average of $443 per year on classroom supplies.

Additionally, teacher quality is critical to maximize student achievement, as highly qualified teachers will enable students to meet high standards. Continued professional development is one vital way that teachers keep their skills and knowledge current, and best equip themselves to prepare students for college and the challenges of the 21st Century global workplace. Expanding the tax deduction to cover qualified continuing education pursuits further assures the success of our teachers and our children.

Reichert Statement on U.S. Participation in Trans-Pacific Partnership Negotiations

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-08) issued the following statement today in response to the President’s announcement that the United States will participate in the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations:

"With this announcement, the President positively indicates that he is placing emphasis on trade with an important region of the globe. I'm encouraged by the desire to engage the Asia-Pacific, a region of vital importance to the economy of the Pacific Northwest. The TPP brings an opportunity for the United States and other nations to engage in trade across critical sectors of our economy, and will help create jobs here in the United States. One way to show our commitment to trade in the Pacific is to pass the South Korea Free Trade Agreement, which has languished for too long."

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Reichert Honors Nations’ Veterans

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-08) today released the following statement in observance of Veterans’ Day:

“Today we honor all those men and women who serve and have served to protect and defend freedom, security and our great nation. This year, Veterans’ Day falls so soon after a brutal attack; even as we reserve time to honor our veterans, our nation mourns those men and women killed last week at Fort Hood, and we hold those families close in thought. We also remember those today who have lost loved ones in combat this year; your sacrifices and those of our brave service members will never be forgotten.

“Our nation enjoys freedom and liberty because of the great sacrifice, dedication, and determination of our veterans and their families; today we salute them. And while our country has set aside a specific day to recognize our veterans, we should thank them each and every day. Our gratitude can never measure up to their sacrifice, but we will never forget everything they do to ensure our safety and security.”

Reichert Rejects Health Care Overhaul

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-08) today voted against a health care overhaul that would implement a government-run health plan estimated to cost more than $1.3 trillion, while drastically slashing Medicare benefits, forcing tax increases on millions of Americans and small businesses, and also threatening to take away their current health plans. The measure narrowly passed the House by a vote of 220-215.

“We heard yesterday’s announcement that unemployment eclipsed 10 percent, yet instead of focusing on measures to put Americans back to work, today the House passed a health care overhaul that will cost more jobs, raises taxes on families, small businesses, and seniors, and takes away freedoms,” said Reichert. “This bill permits government interference in patients’ health decisions and requires every American to purchase a government-approved health plan, pay a fine, or go to jail. We must work together on real solutions that begin to bring down the cost of health care and bring it to those who need it most.”

Prior to passage, Congressman Reichert helped lead the fight to recoup cuts to Medicare benefits and enact true medical liability reform.

“Tonight, in the last chance to amend the bill, I was proud to fight for our seniors. I am disappointed that the House rejected the measure that would protect seniors from drastic cuts to Medicare and stop expensive lawsuits that increase the cost of health care for every American. It’s my hope that Congress shelves this bill and instead focuses on bipartisan solutions like new tax assistance, enacting real medical liability reform, and allowing people to buy insurance across state lines to make health care more affordable and accessible for American families.”

To address concerns of job losses associated with the bill, Reichert again offered an amendment to exempt small businesses from the bill’s proposed penalty tax should it cause them to freeze hiring, cut pay, or order layoffs. The amendment was not permitted to be considered.

Reichert supported alternative legislation today that focuses on lowering the cost of health care premiums for families and small businesses, increasing access to affordable, high-quality care, and promoting healthier lifestyles – without adding to the national debt.

For more information on Congressman Reichert’s solutions for health care, including his work during the House Ways and Means Committee debate on this health care legislation, visit http://reichert.house.gov/HealthCare.

Link to motion to recommit speech: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWSmFBdHjyY

Link to floor speech: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9264h16tUFY

Link to appearance on MSNBC: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-5pmzz9uH0

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Reichert Calls for Action on Jobs as Unemployment Eclipses 10%

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-08) released this statement today following the announcement of October’s unemployment numbers:

“Not since 1983 has the unemployment rate eclipsed 10 percent. Families are hurting and continuing to struggle, and the stimulus bill has so far proven ineffective in creating jobs. Congress must take bipartisan action on solutions with a proven track record of creating jobs, including broad-based tax relief, opening new markets through trade, and targeted infrastructure investments, not more reckless government spending on the backs of our grandchildren.

“Getting Americans back to work must be the absolute, number one priority. This is especially critical to Washington State in light of the recent announcement of the second Boeing 787 line going to South Carolina. Yet instead of considering policies to jumpstart our economy, Congress is debating a health care proposal that will cost $1.3 trillion, running our country farther into debt while also taxing small businesses. The last thing Congress should contemplate during these difficult economic times is raising taxes on those with a proven record of creating new jobs. To do so would only cloud our future with greater uncertainty.”

Background:

According to recovery.gov, the Eighth Congressional District in Washington State has only had 175 jobs created due to the stimulus. Earlier this year, the White House projected that 75,000 jobs would be created in Washington State as a direct result of the stimulus law. According to state payroll employment data through the end of September, Washington has instead lost 65,900 jobs, and 49 states and the District of Columbia have also seen job losses – not gains, with more than 3 million jobs lost nationwide since the stimulus began. In fact, the Associated Press has reported the President’s own economic advisor recently said that the stimulus would soon likely be contributing little to further growth.

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Reichert Rebukes AARP Endorsement of Bill with Drastic Medicare Cuts

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-08) today released the following statement following AARP’s announcement of its official endorsement of Speaker Pelosi’s health care overhaul bill which includes $500 billion in drastic Medicare cuts:

“AARP today shows its true colors to the membership it claims to serve. This endorsement is an insult to seniors who depend on this organization to look out for their best interests. The bill AARP endorses today not only makes drastic cuts to Medicare, but it also could place burdensome taxes on wheelchairs, pacemakers, and hearing aids. How, in good conscience, could this be something AARP supports?

“I’m disappointed that while AARP endorses a bill that slashes benefits of its members, its representatives still refuse to honestly answer my questions about its profit motives and how it stands to financially benefit from this bill. I urge seniors everywhere to share their feelings with AARP on the organization’s disturbing announcement today.”

Background:

On September 21, Reichert asked AARP to explain its support for the health care overhaul bill that would cut Medicare benefits, affecting millions of seniors. In public statements and a July meeting with Congressman Reichert, AARP advocated for H.R. 3200, which contains nearly $500 billion in Medicare cuts. Hundreds of constituents have written Reichert expressing their concerns with the proposed Medicare cuts. AARP responded but did not adequately address Reichert’s inquiry.

The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office predicts that 3 million seniors will lose their Medicare health plan coverage and 3 million fewer seniors will enroll in such a plan if H.R. 3200 becomes law. CBO has also predicted the policies contained in H.R. 3200 “could lead many plans to limit the benefits they offer, raise their premiums, or withdraw from the program.”

On October 1, AARP responded to Reichert’s inquiry. Because their response failed to answer the questions in his letter, Reichert sent a second letter to clarify lingering questions. AARP's response was again inadequate, therefore Reichert agreed to meet with AARP representatives on November 17.

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Don't miss: telephone townhall tomorrow night on flooding and the Howard Hanson Dam

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Flood season is here and with the threat of increased flooding posed by the Howard Hanson Dam, we are doing everything we can to prepare and protect the area, both in the near- and long-term. But as we work to do that, you must prepare your family too. Join us for a discussion on what local and federal officials are doing, and what you can do to be informed and prepared for what could happen.

Tomorrow night, I am hosting a telephone townhall to discuss the Howard Hanson Dam and issues related to preparedness. Col. Anthony Wright of the Army Corps of Engineers will be joining us.

I hope you'll join us in this important discussion!

Wednesday, November 4, 2009
5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. pacific

Call toll-free: (877) 269-7289
Code: 12428

Reichert Disappointed with Second AARP Response

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-08) today expressed concern regarding AARP’s latest response to his inquiry into the potential hidden profit motive behind the organization’s vocal advocacy for a House health care proposal that contains nearly $500 billion in Medicare cuts affecting millions of seniors.

“I've reviewed AARP’s response defending their support for cuts to Medicare, and I am simply disappointed,” Reichert said. “Though AARP promises to represent seniors’ interests ‘in ways that are affordable and beneficial to them,’ they continue to dodge simple, straightforward questions -- questions about supporting cuts to member benefits, raising costs, and reducing choice for its members. I’m looking forward to meeting with them; perhaps this face-to-face discussion will shed some light on their support for this proposal."

Background:

On September 21, Reichert asked AARP to explain its support for the health care overhaul bill that would cut Medicare benefits, affecting millions of seniors. In public statements and a July meeting with Congressman Reichert, AARP advocated for H.R. 3200, which contains nearly $500 billion in Medicare cuts. Hundreds of constituents have written Reichert expressing their concerns with the proposed Medicare cuts. AARP responded but did not adequately address Reichert’s inquiry.

The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office predicts that 3 million seniors will lose their Medicare health plan coverage and 3 million fewer seniors will enroll in such a plan if H.R. 3200 becomes law. CBO has also predicted the policies contained in H.R. 3200 “could lead many plans to limit the benefits they offer, raise their premiums, or withdraw from the program.”

On October 1, AARP responded to Reichert’s inquiry. Because their response failed to answer the questions in his letter, Reichert sent a second letter to clarify lingering questions. AARP's response was again inadequate, therefore Reichert agreed to meet with AARP representatives on November 17.

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