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POSTED 8/24/08 Stabenow, Colleagues Pass Legislation to Make College More Affordable for Students, Working Families WASHINGTON —U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today announced Senate passage of the Higher Education Reauthorization and College Opportunity Act of 2008 conference report. This bill reauthorizes the Higher Education Act of 1965 for the first time since 1998. Estimates show that college costs have tripled during in the last twenty years. The legislation takes steps to prevent rising tuition costs, improve access to financial aid, and enhance grant aid for low-income students. “Michigan is home to a number of world- renowned universities that educate and create opportunities for thousands of graduates each year,” said Stabenow. “In today’s world, education policy is economic policy, and by making sure that more students can afford to go to college we will help keep America on the cutting edge of innovation as we compete in a global economy. Now more than ever working families and students need access to good, affordable higher education to be able to achieve the American dream.” College tuition rates have increased in public universities throughout Michigan by an estimated average of 7% in the past school year. This legislation provides more transparency on college costs, requiring the Department of Education to publish detailed data about college pricing trends. Additionally colleges with the largest cost increases over the previous three years will be required to submit a detailed report to the department as to why their costs have risen. The bill also streamlines the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which all students must complete to be eligible for student aid, by simplifying the paper work and complexity. This legislation creates a new two-page EZ FAFSA for low-income students and phases out the current seven-page application, which can deter students from applying for aid. The legislation also increases the maximum Pell Grant from the current level of $4,310 to $6,000 in 2009 and up to $8,000 by 2014. The Higher Education Reauthorization and College Opportunity Act of 2008 will also: • Enhance ethics and transparency in the student loan sector • Help more military veterans and their families attend college • Make college a reality for more students with disabilities • Promote innovative and effective teacher preparation programs • Expand and strengthens nursing faculty The legislation now goes to the president for his signature. |
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POSTED 7/24/08 MOVED 8/6/08 Levin, Stabenow: Senate Appropriations Committee Approves Nearly $100 Million for Military Construction Projects in Michigan WASHINGTON –
Senators Carl Levin (D-Mich.) and Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) announced today that
the Senate
“These funds are crucial for the new construction and renovations necessary to accommodate the more than 1,000 personnel who will be transferred to the Detroit Arsenal,” said Levin, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. “This bill will also provide much needed improvements at Camp Grayling, the Army Reserve Center in Saginaw, and Selfridge Air National Guard Base.” “These projects will allow Michigan to continue its long and proud tradition of helping to keep America safe, strong and secure,” said Stabenow. “I am pleased this funding will help build new facilities to train and house our Army Reserve and National Guard units and support the vital research and development work of the Detroit Arsenal.” The military construction bill funds the following seven military construction projects in Michigan: Detroit Arsenal $56 million to begin the construction of new office buildings at the Detroit Arsenal. These Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) funds will provide the office space and parking necessary to absorb the additional personnel transferring from other military installations to the Detroit Arsenal as a result of the 2005 BRAC actions. The second phase of this project is planned for fiscal year 2010. $6.4 million for a new weapons maintenance and operations facility at the Detroit Arsenal. These BRAC funds will pay for building renovations and construction to accommodate a new training facility for the maintenance and operation of tanks and tank weapons. The final 2005 BRAC report moved this mission to the Detroit Arsenal. $6.1 million for a new entrance to the Detroit Arsenal from Mound Road. This new entrance will help facilitate the screening of commercial vehicle traffic. Currently, commercial vehicles are forced to enter Detroit Arsenal through the main gate, slowing entry for those who work at the base and potentially causing an unsafe volume of traffic in the area around the main gate. Camp Grayling $16.9 million to begin barracks replacement at Camp Grayling. The soldier billeting areas of Camp Grayling were built in increments beginning in the 1950s. These facilities are substandard in terms of construction, function, efficiency, and space. The current facilities do not meet existing fire protection standards, have numerous safety violations and provide inadequate sleeping accommodations for deploying personnel. $2 million for an Infantry Squad Battle Course at Camp Grayling. This new training course will improve the readiness of infantry units and enable National Guard units to maximize training time using a variety of tools including a computer scored electronic target system. Army Reserve Center in Saginaw $11.5 million for a new Army Reserve Center in Saginaw. These funds will pay for the construction of a new training facility with administrative, educational, training, simulator, and physical fitness areas for two Army Reserve units. A maintenance shop will also be constructed to provide work bays for training and administrative support for military equipment stored at this facility. Selfridge Air National Guard Base $870,000 for facility modifications at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. These BRAC funds will pay for facility modifications needed to support the transition from F-16 to A-10 aircraft beginning later this year. |
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POSTED 7/24/08 Sen. Stabenow: Housing Bill Including Provision to Create Jobs through Domestic Automakers Passes House WASHINGTON —U.S. Senator Debbie
Stabenow (D-MI) and Representative Sander Levin (D-MI) today announced House
passage of H.R. 3221, the Housing Assistance Tax Act of 2008, which includes a
provision encouraging American manufacturers to invest in the economy, thereby
creating jobs here at home. The provision allows manufacturers and other
companies to utilize built up tax credits to stimulate the economy, invest in
capital, and create new jobs. H.R. 3221 will now come to the Senate for final
passage. “It is only fair that these companies be rewarded for the investments they make under the economic stimulus program,” said Rep. Levin. “We encouraged companies to make capital investments this year that will help spur economic growth. But companies that do not expect to pay tax this year, in part due to the economic downturn, would receive no benefit regardless of how much they invest. This critical provision would correct that inequity for many companies, including our domestic automakers.” The Economic Stimulus Act of 2008, which became law earlier this year, included an accelerated bonus depreciation provision to give companies a strong incentive to increase investment and stimulate the economy. Unfortunately this provision left out the companies most affected by the economic downturn, those that are not currently profitable. The provision authored by Senator Stabenow, and championed in the House of Representatives by Representative Levin allows companies most affected by the economic downturn to utilize already accumulated tax credits to make critical investments in their businesses and workforce. It allows manufacturers to use accumulated alternative minimum tax (AMT) credits as well as research and development (R&D) tax credits to make investments that would qualify for bonus depreciation, if manufacturers were profitable. The amount of investment is capped at the lesser of 6 percent of built up AMT and R&D credits or $30 million. The Housing Assistance Tax Act of 2008 also includes numerous provisions to stimulate the economy and assist middle-class families facing the loss of their home: FHA Modernization – To ensure that the Federal Housing Administration provides safe, fixed-rate mortgages to those who would most benefit from them, this provision modernizes, streamlines and expands the reach of the FHA program. Assisting Communities Devastated by Foreclosures – To prevent foreclosures from leading to declining neighborhood values and causing community decline, this provision would provide $3.9 billion in supplemental Community Development Block Grant Funds to rehabilitate or redevelop homes. Providing Pre-Foreclosure Counseling for Families in Need – To help families avoid foreclosure, this provision provides $180 million in additional funding for housing counseling. These funds will be distributed by the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation to ensure families can quickly get the help they need. Enhancing Mortgage Disclosure – To ensure that consumers are provided with timely and meaningful disclosures in connection with mortgages, this provision expands the types of home loans subject to early disclosure so borrowers can shop for another loan if not satisfied with the terms. This provision also requires a new disclosure that informs the borrowers of the maximum monthly payments possible under their loan. Preserving the American Dream for Our Nation’s Veterans – To assist returning soldiers that are facing foreclosure, this provision lengthens the time a lender must wait before starting foreclosure from three months to nine months after a soldier returns from service. In addition, the Department of Defense is required to establish a counseling program to ensure veterans and active service members can access assistance if facing financial difficulties. Standard Property Tax Deduction – To provide tax relief to all American homeowners, this provision makes available a standard deduction ($500 for single filers and $1000 for joint filers) for the 28.3 million non-itemizers who pay property tax. This would change current law that allows only those who itemize deductions on their Federal tax returns to deduct state and local property taxes from their income. Mortgage Revenue Bonds – To provide for refinancing of subprime loans, mortgages for first-time homebuyers and multifamily rental housing, this provision will include $10 billion in funding from Federally taxed exempt private bonds. Extension of Net Operating Loss Carry Back – To assist businesses that have been particularly hard hit by the economic slump, the bill extends a law allowing companies to apply excess net operating losses to tax returns from prior profitable years. The provision would extend the net operating loss (NOL) carry back from two years to four years. |
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POSTED 7/10/08 ED NOTE: On Tuesday [6/24], the U.S. House passed legislation that would significantly improve Medicare benefits for 44 million American seniors and people with disabilities. The bill pays particular attention to recipients in areas with limited access to health care. Medicare providers in rural areas often lack the resources they need to serve the public. This bill increases payments for sole community and critical access hospitals, increases payments for rural ambulance services and ensures physicians are fairly reimbursed for Medicare services. Without this legislation, physicians across the country would face a 10.6 percent cut in reimbursements for Medicare services beginning July 1. Alarmingly, the data suggests that over 60 percent of physicians would leave the Medicare program or stop taking new Medicare patients if these cuts are implemented. Although this bill stops cuts to physician payments, it is not about how much we pay doctors; it is about access to health care for patients. When doctors don’t get reimbursed, they often can’t continue serving Medicare patients. Jun 26, 2008: This bill failed a cloture motion, preventing consideration of the bill, in the Senate by roll call vote. The totals were 58 Ayes, 40 Nays, 2 Present/Not Voting.
Stabenow Expresses Alarm Over Defeat Results in 10% Cut to Medicare Program
Despite a strong bipartisan vote in the House of Representatives, Republican leaders in the US Senate chose to side with President Bush defeating the legislation which affects primarily senior citizens and Americans with disabilities. An attempt to stop the filibuster was defeated by merely one vote. The legislation also included a number of provisions modeled after legislation introduced by Sen. Stabenow calling for the modernization of health care with innovations including e-prescribing and telehealth services. “I am incredibly concerned that patients relying on Medicare will be denied access to critical health care services because of Republican opposition to this important legislation at a time when the cost of health care is rising drastically,” said Sen. Stabenow. “Not only did this legislation protect patients’ ability to see their trusted doctors, but it offered crucial investments to modernize our health care system, by improving access to quality, affordable medical care while lowering the overall costs to providers and patients alike.” The legislation offered improvements to health care services while reducing costs via a variety of avenues, among them electronic prescribing technology which saves lives and saves dollars. According to the Institute of Medicine, 1.5 million hospital patients across the country are injured or harmed annually as a result of prescription errors and at least 7,000 Americans suffer fatalities. The Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 included a provision, spearheaded by Sen. Stabenow, which would have provided Medicare payment bonuses to physicians who use e-prescribing technology. Senator Stabenow has been recognized for her leadership in bringing innovative technology to the health care sector. She is co-chair of the Senate Health Care Quality and Information Technology Caucus and a member of the Senate Rural Health Caucus. |
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POSTED 6/29/08
Stabenow Announces Final Passage of Unemployment Insurance Extension in Supplemental Appropriations Bill Supplemental also Includes 21st Century GI Bill and Medicaid Improvements WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today announced final passage of the Supplemental Appropriations bill, which extends federal unemployment insurance by 13 weeks to workers who have lost their jobs within the past two years and have since exhausted their unemployment insurance. The provision was championed by Senator Stabenow and is based on original language she authored. Over 245,000 Michigan workers are expected to benefit directly as a result of this extension. The full bill will now go to President Bush for his signature or veto. “At a time when Michigan is facing its highest unemployment rate in 16 years, this extension is long overdue,” said Stabenow. “Middle-class families in Michigan and across the country struggling in this job market need immediate assistance to keep food on the table and a roof over their heads. The extension of unemployment insurance will not only provide support at a time families need it most, it is one of the fastest, most effective ways to stimulate our economy.” Passage of this unemployment insurance extension comes on the heels of a recent study by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth, which cites a jump in Michigan’s unemployment rate to 8.5% in May and reveals that the total number of unemployed Michigan workers rose by 82,000 since last month. Nationwide, over 324,000 jobs have been lost since January. Currently, 8.5 million unemployed Americans are competing for only 3.7 million job openings. Extending unemployment insurance will help struggling, middle-class families meet their basic needs such as housing, food, gas, and health care. Top economists agree that for every $1 spent on unemployment benefits, the economy is stimulated by $1.64 – or every dollar invested yields a 64 percent return for the economy. Other provisions in the Supplemental Appropriations Bill include: • 21st Century G.I. Bill: This provision provides increased educational benefits to all members of the military who have served on active duty for at least three months since September 11, 2001; offers educational assistance to help pay for any in-state public school tuition and fees for up to four academic years; and extends the deadline for which veterans must use their educational assistance benefit after leaving active duty from ten years to fifteen years. • Improving Access to Quality Health Care Services: This provision prevents the Administration from implementing harmful regulations that jeopardize access to quality affordable health care services. According to the House Oversight Committee, implementing these regulations would have cost Michigan nearly $4 billion a year in lost federal matching payments for the Medicaid program. Additionally, these regulations would limit access to care for children and people with disabilities and forced cuts in medical residency programs, nursing homes, and safety-net hospitals.
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POSTED 6/5/08 MOVED 6/21/08
Stabenow, Colleagues Pass 21st Century GI Bill to Provide our Nation’s Newest Veterans a Quality, Affordable Education
The 21st Century G.I. Bill will not only provide veterans with access to a quality, affordable education, but will also serve to ease the transition from military to civilian life as well as stimulate the economy. The original G.I. Bill sparked economic growth and expansion that lasted for a generation. Veterans of the Guard and Reserve will receive equal benefits for their active duty service, a necessary provision as the Guard and Reserve take on more and more deployments and combat tours. The bipartisan legislation is strongly supported by leading veterans’ service organizations, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, the Military Officers’ Association of American, and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. Specifically, the bill will: • Provide increased educational benefits to all members of the military who have served on active duty for at least three months since September 11, 2001. • Offer educational assistance in proportion to the total length of active duty service on or after 9/11, from three to 36 months, to provide maximum benefit of the cost of any in-state public school’s tuition and fees for four academic years. • Create a new program in which the government would match any additional contributions to veterans from colleagues and universities whose tuition is more expensive than the maximum assistance provided. • Allow veterans up to fifteen years after they leave active duty to use their educational assistance benefit, rather than ten years currently provided under the Montgomery G.I. program. |
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POSTED 6/2/08 MOVED 6/21/08 TIP-OF-THE-HAT TO MICHAEL RINGLER
SENATOR STABENOW Fruit, Vegetable Farmers Applaud Passage of Farm BillBy Matt Vande Bunte | The Grand Rapids Press
ALPINE TOWNSHIP -- Finally, U.S. agriculture funding represents Roger Victory and other commodity farmers in West Michigan. That was the vegetable grower's feeling Monday when he celebrated last week's congressional passage of a five-year farm bill that earmarks about $3 billion for specialty crops, including the turnips, parsnips, leek and rutabaga he grows in Georgetown Township. There's $600 million for disaster relief, $500 million for fruit and vegetable grants, $300 million for research, $60 million for export assistance and more. "It's our task now to show we're good stewards of this funding," said Victory, who farms 600 acres near Gleneagles Golf Club. "Hopefully, we're going to show the positive results of it." Victory was among local farmers and state commodity association executives who joined U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Lansing, for a news conference at May Farms. Lauded as "the senator of specialty crops," Stabenow outlined how the $290 billion farm bill will aid local growers of everything from apples and asparagus to pickles and potatoes -- not just the traditional staples such as corn, wheat and rice.
The legislation does not include direct payments to specialty crop growers, Stabenow said. Instead, it funds pest management research through Michigan State University, marketing grants through the Michigan Department of Agriculture and disaster assistance. It also pumps an extra $10.3 billion into school nutrition and food stamps, including $1.2 billion for an expanded fresh fruit and vegetable program for students. "It's a great investment in 100 different ways," Stabenow said. "This is an economic stimulus bill, from helping families put food on the table to helping farmers grow food and fuel. (The funding) comes in a number of ways, but it's specific." The bill last week passed the Senate 81-15, after moving through the House by a vote of 318-106. President Bush has called the bill fiscally irresponsible and too generous to wealthy corporate farmers, but lawmakers appear to have enough votes to override a possible veto. The bill also devotes funding to conservation and alternative energy, including a tax credit for production of cellulosic ethanol. Jim May, who grows apples along Fruit Ridge Avenue NW on some of his 1,000 acres, said the bill will get more local food into the hands of children. And it will help growers manage risk. "I've got a fortune tied up out there (in the orchards), and we don't know if we're going to see a crop, yet," May said. "We're not out here looking for handouts. We need the research." |
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POSTED 6/5/08 Stabenow, Colleagues Urge Administration to Enforce Current Trade Laws Before Supporting South Korea Trade Agreement Unfair South Korean Trade Barriers Hurt American Auto Industry, Manufacturers, and Farmers WASHINGTON —U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) along with her Senate colleagues today sent the following letter to President Bush regarding the South Korea Trade Agreement. Stabenow urged the president to address unfair trade barriers and enforce current trade regulations before sending another trade agreement to Congress that costs middle-class jobs due to the repeated trade violations of countries like South Korea. With imports representing a mere four percent of Korea’s auto market, Korea is identified as having one of the most closed markets in the industrialized world. Currently, 750,000 South Korean automobiles have been sold in America annually while South Korea has used high tariffs and other trade barriers to limit the number of American cars they import annually to merely 6,300. Full text of the letter follows:
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POSTED 6/5/08
Michigan’s agricultural industry generates over $60 billion annually for our economy and employs approximately one million residents, making it the second largest industry in Michigan. Senator Stabenow has represented Michigan on the Agriculture Committees in both the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate for over a decade. She has played a leading role in crafting the Farm Bill which passed the Congress on May 15, 2008. This legislation is renewed every five years by Congress and has a far-reaching impact on Michigan. Senator Stabenow was the first Senator from Michigan in over 40 years to be appointed to the Conference Committee which negotiated key differences in the House and Senate passed bills. She won important victories for Michigan with the passage of this legislation in the areas of energy independence, job creation, Great Lakes and land conservation, research, food safety, nutrition and rural development. |
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POSTED 4/28/08
Stabenow Statement on Korean Announcement Regarding Beef Importation WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) made the following statement regarding today's announcement concerning the importation of U.S. beef. “Today’s announcement that Korea intends to resume the importation of U.S. Beef does little to change the fact that the Korean trade agreement is a bad deal for American workers and American businesses. Trade only works when the playing field is level and there is nothing fair about an agreement that allows over 750,000 Korean automobiles into America annually, while Korea continues to use high tariffs and other trade barriers to limit the number of American cars they import to little more than 6,000 a year. “Nothing is fair about an agreement that asks for American farmers to wait years before getting relief from import tariffs as high as 50 percent. And nothing is fair about an agreement that does little to stop product testing that holds Korean appliance manufacturers to lower standards than their American counterparts. “This country doesn’t need another, so called, ‘free’ trade agreement. What we need is to enforce our existing trade laws, improve product safety, and keep our promise to working Americans to ensure a level playing field. Today’s announcement does little to change my opposition to this trade agreement.” —U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow |
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POSTED 4/13/08 MOVED 4/20/08
Stabenow Urges Administration to Implement Law Lowering Prescription Drug Prices Legislation Increases Access to Affordable Generic Drugs April 9, 2008 Andrew von Eschenbach, MD Dear Commissioner von Eschenbach,
We respectfully request a timely response on what steps FDA has taken toward implementation, and a timeline for future steps to ensure compliance with Section 914. Sincerely, Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI)
Senator John Thune (R-SD) |
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POSTED 4/13/08
Stabenow Statement on President’s ColumbiaTrade Proposal WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today made the following statement regarding President Bush’s Columbia Trade Proposal. “Once again the administration is trying to put the cart ahead of the horse. As middle-class families across Michigan and throughout this country are struggling, now is the time to create jobs, not to sign another unenforceable agreement that ships vital jobs overseas. “I cannot support another trade agreement ahead of enforcing our trade laws, improving product safety, keeping our promises to working Americans and ensuring a level playing field for businesses and workers. What we need in this country is a comprehensive trade policy that puts American workers and businesses first.”— U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow |
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POSTED 4/13/08 Stabenow Amendment to Create Jobs, Passes Senate Encourages Struggling Manufacturers to Invest in the Economy WASHINGTON —U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today announced Senate passage of her amendment to encourage American manufacturers to invest in the economy, thereby creating jobs here at home. The amendment allows manufacturers to utilize built up tax credits to stimulate the economy, invest in capital, and create new jobs. Cosponsored by Senator George Voinovich (R-OH), the amendment is part of the Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2008, expected to be voted on early next week.
The Economic Stimulus Act of 2008, which became law earlier this year, included an accelerated bonus depreciation provision to give companies a strong incentive to increase investment and stimulate the economy. Unfortunately this provision left out the companies most affected by the economic downturn, those that are not currently profitable. The Stabenow amendment allows those companies hurting the most to utilize already accumulated tax credits to make critical investments in their businesses and workforce. Specifically, manufacturers may elect to utilize accumulated alternative minimum tax credits and research and development tax credits to make investments that would qualify for bonus depreciation, if manufacturers were profitable. |
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POSTED 4/13/08
Stabenow Statement on 40th Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Assassination “ “But we only need to look at our presidential candidates this year to realize we have made progress and change is always possible. Today is a reminder that each one of us is an agent of change, as Dr. King was and that each one of us truly can make a difference in this world.” –U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow. |
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POSTED 4/13/08 Stabenow, Bunning, Bayh Introduce Legislation Geared Toward Ending Currency Manipulation by China WASHINGTON -- U.S. Senators
Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Jim Bunning (R-KY) and Evan Bayh (D-IN) “Currency manipulation is a clear-cut form of unfair trade that is costing us jobs,” said Stabenow. “Our trade deficit with China continues to grow, hitting $256 billion last year, thanks in no small part to China’s manipulation of their currency. The solution is simple - we must hold countries that cheat accountable. America can compete with anyone when the playing field is level, and this bill is a much needed step in the fight for fair trade.” In 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed legislation enacted by Congress that requires the Treasury Department to monitor the exchange rate policies of foreign nations, including China, and to report to Congress when any country intervenes to gain an advantage in trade with the United States by artificially depreciating the value of its currency. Secretary Lloyd Bentsen cited China in 1994, but in the face of overwhelming evidence to the contrary, including a historic trade deficit, Secretary Henry Paulson maintains that China’s actions are unrelated to the obvious trade advantage that it gains by undervaluing its currency. The very recent nominal increase in the value of the yuan still leaves the Chinese currency undervalued by between 30 percent and 40 percent, according to trade economists who have testified before Congress. Last year, the United States trade deficit with China was a record $256 billion, the largest with any nation. The Bunning-Stabenow-Bayh bill that is supported by the China Currency Coalition would require the Secretary of the Treasury to make a finding under the 1988 Act that China is manipulating its currency to gain an unfair trade advantage. It would require the Secretary of the Treasury to establish a plan of action within 30 days on its enactment with specific time frames and benchmarks to remedy China’s currency manipulation and to submit a report to Congress describing the plan. The legislation would also require the Secretary to seek consultations in the IMF under Article IV of the IMF charter with respect to China. The provisions in the bill are similar to those outlined in the currency legislation that was approved by the Banking Committee last July. |
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POSTED 3/18/08 Stabenow: Senate Budget Invests in Green Technology, Creates Middle-Class Jobs Stabenow’s Green Collar Jobs Initiative Included in Senate Budget
WASHINGTON
—U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), a member of the Senate Budget Committee,
today announced Senate passage of the Fiscal Year 2009 Budget Resolution, which
includes Senator Stabenow’s Green Collar Jobs Initiative. Stabenow’s initiative
makes critical investments in the newest alternative energy technologies to
ensure that the next generation of energy and vehicle production is done in
America and, most importantly, creates American jobs.
Stabenow Green
Collar Jobs Initiative ($3.5 billion)
Energy
Efficiency and Conservation ($1.15 billion)
Advanced
Batteries ($250 million)
Retooling for
Old Plants ($1 billion)
Biofuel
Production and Access ($100 million) |
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POSTED 3/18/08 Stabenow: Senate Budget Makes Funding for Great Lakes a Priority WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today announced Senate passage of the Fiscal Year 2009 Budget, which will pave the way for $175 million in critical investments for conservation, restoration and protection of the Great Lakes. This legislation signals a major victory for Michigan by recognizing the need to make crucial investments into one of our nation’s greatest resources. With communities across the state and region relying on the Great Lakes for their economic well being, this investment is important for creating jobs and ensuring a strong economy. “Protecting our Great Lakes is not only critical to our economy, but to the very identity of our state and our nation,” said Stabenow. As a member of the Senate Budget Committee, Senator Stabenow authored key provisions to properly invest in the Great Lakes. Stabenow worked to ensure the Senate budget included $77 million over the President’s request for investments in the Great Lakes – a resource that makes up over 90% percent of the nation’s surface water and serves as a source of drinking water for over 35 million people. The Senate Budget lays the groundwork to invest in fisheries, toxin removal, and water quality and programs that fight invasive species. These programs include the Great Lakes Legacy Act, the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act, Great Lakes fishery and Ecosystem Restoration, Remedial Action Plan (RAP) Assistance, Great Lakes Environmental Research Lab and the Great Lakes Basin Program. |
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POSTED 3/18/08
Stabenow: Senate Budget Places Priority on Veterans Health Care Needs WASHINGTON —U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), a member of the Senate Budget Committee, today announced Senate passage of the Fiscal Year 2009 Budget Resolution, which for the second year in a row, will fully-fund veterans’ health care in order to make sure that our country keeps its promises to those who have served our country and will include two Stabenow amendments that put veterans first. One amendment prevents the Bush Administration from doubling the cost of prescription drugs copayments and implementing enrollment fees for our veterans. The other helps lay the groundwork to make the Department of Defense and Veterans Administration’s health record systems compatible, which means lower costs and improved care for those transitioning from active duty to veterans’ service. “Michigan is home to over 760,000 men and women who have worn the uniform in defense of our country,” said Stabenow. “Our veterans have always been there for us and our country needs to be there for them. Providing the necessary funding for our Veterans has been a long, hard fight, and the Senate’s Budget is a major step towards our goal. No one who has put their life on the line for their country should ever be forced to pay more for health care or fall through the cracks because there is a lack of resources.” Senator Stabenow’s amendment, included in the budget, rejects the Administration’s proposed increase in health care costs for veterans. Currently, many veterans have an $8 per prescription copay for each 30 day prescription. As of October 1, 2008, the President's Budget would increase the copay to $15. Veterans, who make more than $28,429 dollars but less than 80% of the community’s median income, would be subject to copayment increases as well as enrollment fees. Stabenow’s amendment will help ensure that the brave men and women that have put their lives on the line in service to our country are not strapped with additional health care costs. Senator Stabenow’s Health IT amendment, included in the budget, will help pave the way to fund the Department of Defense and Veterans Administration's effort to make their electronic health records compatible. The Wounded Warrior Act, which passed last year, requires that these systems be compatible. This will help ensure that soldiers returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan do not fall through the cracks. As a member of the Budget Committee, Senator Stabenow has been a stalwart advocate for the needs of our nation’s veterans. Last year, veterans from across the country looked to Democrats to make their health care needs a priority, and Stabenow and the Democratic Congress delivered. While the current administration has consistently underfunded the Veterans Administration, Stabenow has fought at every turn for full funding of veterans health care and to eliminate the year-to-year uncertainties in funding the needs of our nation’s heroes. |
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POSTED 3/18/08
Stabenow: Senate Budget Invests in American Manufacturers, Good-paying Jobs for Middle Class Workers WASHINGTON —U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), a member of the Senate
Budget Committee, today announced that the Fiscal Year 2009 Budget Resolution
paves the way for Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) funding. MEP centers
assist manufacturers with cutting-edge technologies and product innovation to
stay competitive in the global economy. The Fiscal Year 2009 Budget Resolution is expected to pass the Senate late this evening. |
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POSTED 3/18/08 Stabenow Announces “National Support the Troops and Their Families Day” Resolution Passes Senate Measure to reestablish official day of recognition introduced on behalf of
Michigan teenager WASHINGTON – U.S. “Our active-duty troops and their families make enormous sacrifices in service to this nation, and we owe them our eternal gratitude,” Stabenow said. “I am pleased that the Senate has once again set aside a day to honor our brave men and women and their families, the same way we do our veterans.” First passed two years ago, “National Support the Troops and Their Families Day” was the idea of then sixteen-year-old Alexandra McGregor of Waterford, Michigan. This resolution states that “all Americans should participate in a moment of silence to support our troops.” “Without the troops, our country would not be what it is,” said McGregor. “Everyday men and women put their lives on the line, and I believe that we should recognize them for everything they do. This is why I spearheaded Support Our Troops and Their Families Day.” |
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POSTED 3/18/08 Stabenow: Senate Budget Creates Jobs, Invests in the Middle Class Budget Includes Senator Stabenow’s Green Collar Jobs Initiative WASHINGTON
—U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), a member of the Senate Budget Committee,
today announced that the Committee has passed the Fiscal Year 2009 Budget
Resolution, which includes Senator Stabenow’s Green Collar Jobs Initiative.
Stabenow’s initiative makes critical investments in the newest alternative
energy technologies to ensure that the next generation of energy and vehicle
production is done in America and, most importantly, creates American jobs. Highlights of the Senate’s Fiscal Year 2009 Budget include:
Stabenow Green Collar Jobs
Initiative ($3.5 billion)
Energy Efficiency and
Conservation ($1.15 billion) and energy efficiencies.
Advanced Batteries ($250
million)
Retooling for Old Plants ($1
billion)
Biofuel Production and Access
($100 million)
Restore Bush / GOP Cuts to
Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy ($730 million)
Jobs Rebuilding America
Education and Job Training
The Manufacturing Extension
Partnership
Great Lakes Funding
Investments in Health Care,
Improving Care Funding for Veterans
Health Care
Tax Relief for Middle-Class
Families
Restores cuts to Medicare and
Medicaid
Health Care for our Children
Restores Cuts to Law Enforcement,
Keeping our Communities Safe
Restoring
Fiscally Responsible Budget |
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POSTED 2/16/08 Stabenow, Colleagues Push HELP Committee on Heart for Women Act Letter urges HELP Committee to schedule mark up of HEART legislation
The HEART for Women Act takes a three pronged approach to reducing the cardiovascular disease death rate for women, through improved health education, gender specific analysis and research, and increased access to screening for women. In an effort to deliver better health care to women, the bill authorizes grants to educate doctors about the unique aspects of preventing, diagnosing and treating women with heart disease. |
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POSTED 2/16/08 Stabenow Statement on Release of Latest Trade Deficit Numbers WASHINGTON —U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today made the following statement regarding the Commerce Department report of last year’s trade deficit of $711.6 billion or 5.1 percent of GDP. The Commerce Department also reported that the United States trade deficit with China grew from $232.6 billion in 2006 to $256.3 billion last year. These new trade deficit numbers come on the heels of yesterday’s World Trade Organization initial finding that China’s auto parts import policies violate WTO rules. “Today’s report indicates that our country still faces an enormous shortfall on the sale of products to countries throughout the world. “Of particular concern is that our trade deficit with China continues to explode, reaching an all-time high of over $250 billion. “These numbers provide further evidence of China’s consistent and deliberate efforts to violate our trade laws by doing everything from placing tariffs on our auto parts to misaligning their currency. There is no doubt, this unfair trade hurts American businesses and hurts middle-class families across Michigan and across the country. “That is why we need a comprehensive trade policy in this country that enforces our trade laws, improves product safety, levels the playing field and most importantly, puts American workers and businesses first.” – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow |
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POSTED 2/16/08 Stabenow Statement on WTO Decision on Auto Parts WASHINGTON —U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today made the following statement regarding the World Trade Organization’s initial finding that China’s auto parts import policies violate WTO rules. “I am pleased by today’s WTO decision, but it does not come soon enough for many companies across our country and especially in Michigan that have been hurt by China’s unfair trade policies. While our workers and businesses have waited for this ruling, six of our nation’s largest auto suppliers have declared bankruptcy. “Today’s decision is just more evidence of why we need a comprehensive trade policy in this country that puts American workers and businesses first. We need to be enforcing more of our trade laws, improving product safety, keeping our promises to working Americans and ensuring a level playing field.” – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow |
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POSTED 2/16/08 Stabenow Statement on President’s Signing of the Economic Stimulus Package WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today made the following statement after joining President George W. Bush at the White House, as the President signed H.R. 5410 the Economic Stimulus Act. Stabenow helped lead the charge in the Senate to provide tax rebates for over 20 million seniors and 250,000 disabled veterans that were left out by the original proposal. “This stimulus package is an important victory for seniors, veterans and middle-class families across Michigan and across our nation. However, this can only be the first step in addressing the economic crisis facing our state and our country. A bipartisan group of economists and financial experts agree that extending unemployment insurance is one of the fastest, most effective ways to stimulate our economy. “That’s why I will continue this critical fight to ensure that millions of unemployed, middle-class Americans are not forgotten. ”In the long run, we can’t forget that the best way to boost the economy is by creating quality, good-paying jobs. That’s why I will continue the fight to make the investments needed to create jobs here at home, develop a vibrant economy and ensure a strong middle-class.” —U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow |
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POSTED 2/16/08 Stabenow Discusses Negative Impact of Bush’s Budget on All Americans WASHINGTON —Democratic Senators Debbie Stabenow, Kent Conrad and Robert Menendez joined senior citizen Judy Cato and recent college graduate Gabe Pendas at a press conference today to discuss the negative impact President Bush’s budget will have on all Americans. His fiscally irresponsible budget would cut needed funding in domestic programs while hiding the true cost of the Iraq war and increasing the national debt. “Any budget is about values and priorities, and this President’s final budget is clearly out of sync with the values and priorities of middle-class families across Michigan and across our country,” said Stabenow. “From cutting health care for the most vulnerable among us, to failing to make any real investments to support American manufacturing, this President’s priorities are clear. I look forward to working with my colleagues to develop a responsible budget that invests in America’s working families and creates jobs here at home.” “President Bush will be remembered as the most fiscally irresponsible President ever,” Conrad said. “His tax and spending policies have exploded the nation’s debt, threatening our economic security. Instead of paying our bills now, President Bush has been running up the charge card, passing on trillions of dollars of debt to our children and grandchildren.” “In a number of ways, the administration’s budget leaves behind a legacy of missed opportunities, misguided priorities and misplaced values,” Menendez said. “Cutting some of the most important investments in our families while leaving out huge costs that will run up our debt – that’s a budget double whammy that only this President could pull off.” Said Cato: “Means testing undermines the social insurance nature of the Medicare program, raising costs for seniors who are dependent on it. Over time, that would lead to more middle-class seniors like myself paying higher premiums.” “The President's budget cuts over $800 million from college programs for low-income and middle-class Americans,” Pendas said. “Instead of funding the nation's priorities and investing in the future of our economy, his budget locks the doors to the college classroom for millions of students who need college the most. As a recent graduate with over $30,000 in debt, students like me are the ones who will suffer the most. Year after year, the President’s budget leaves millions of students and their families behind.” |
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POSTED 2/16/08 Stabenow Helps Lead Passage of Economic Stimulus Package that Includes Seniors, Disabled Veterans WASHINGTON —U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today announced Senate passage of H.R. 5410, the Economic Stimulus Act. The Act improves on the version passed by the House of Representatives by providing tax rebates for over 20 million seniors and 250,000 disabled veterans, left out by the House. In addition, the Act includes provisions to help families facing foreclosure, by allowing increased opportunities to refinance mortgages with high interest rates. “This is an important victory for seniors, veterans, and middle-class families across Michigan and across our country,” said Stabenow. “However, this can only be the first step in addressing the economic crisis facing our state and our nation. I will continue the fight to make the investments needed to create quality, good paying jobs and ensure a vibrant economy and a strong middle-class.” A more comprehensive package, passed by the Senate Finance Committee, failed to pass the Senate last night by one vote. The comprehensive package included investments in alternative energy technology and a provision allowing struggling businesses to access capital to invest in domestic production. The comprehensive package also included provisions authored by Senator Stabenow that would have extended federal unemployment insurance by 13 weeks in all states, and an additional 13 weeks in states, like Michigan, that are experiencing high unemployment. “A bipartisan group of economists and financial experts agree that extending unemployment insurance is one of the fastest, most effective ways to stimulate our economy,” said Stabenow. “That’s why I will continue this critical fight to ensure that millions of unemployed, middle-class Americans are not forgotten.” The Senate-passed legislation would provide millions of Americans with rebates between $300 to $600, including over 20 million seniors living on Social Security and 250,000 disabled veterans. An additional $300 will be provided to families for each child who qualifies under the current child tax credit rules. |
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POSTED 1/29/08 Stabenow Statement on President’s Comments Regarding Economic Stimulus Package
“Middle-class families all over Michigan and across our country are struggling - the time to act is now. I appreciate that the President has finally recognized the economic problems facing our nation, but it’s critical that any economic stimulus package must be focused on supporting the middle-class families and small businesses that are truly feeling the effects of the economic downturn. “We shouldn’t be giving rebate checks to the wealthy, and we shouldn’t be giving tax breaks to companies that are sending jobs overseas. The people of Michigan have been struggling for too long. We need a package that invests in those who need it most, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure that this legislation gives a jump start to the middle class and invests in businesses that are creating jobs at home.” – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow POSTED 1/29/08 Stabenow Reacts to President Bush’s State of the Union Address WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today issued the following statement in reaction to President Bush’s State of the Union address: “For the past seven years our manufacturing industry has been left out of the President’s agenda. I appreciate that the President has finally recognized what families in Michigan and across the country have been feeling for some time, but we need to know he shares our sense of urgency. “Unfortunately, the President is pushing a stimulus package that leaves out one of the quickest, most effective ways to stimulate our economy – extending unemployment insurance. Economists and experts from both sides of the aisle agree that extending unemployment insurance will immediately boost consumer spending, while allowing individuals more time to search for a job in a difficult market. I will continue to lead this effort in the Senate Finance Committee. “In the long term, we cannot forget that the best way to stimulate the economy and remain competitive in the global marketplace is by creating good paying jobs. That is why I have put forward my Green Collar Jobs initiative that will invest in the newest alternative energy technologies, making sure the next generation of vehicles is made in America and most importantly, create quality, good-paying jobs here at home. “Tonight, the President called on Congress to implement more trade agreements. With approximately 77,500 Michigan workers losing their jobs last year alone, what we really need in this country is a comprehensive trade policy that puts American workers and businesses first. We need to be enforcing our trade laws, improving product safety, keeping our promises to working Americans and ensuring a level playing field.” – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow |
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POSTED 1/29/08
Stabenow Reacts to President Bush’s State of the Union Address WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today issued the following statement in reaction to President Bush’s State of the Union address: “For the past seven years our manufacturing industry has been left out of the President’s agenda. I appreciate that the President has finally recognized what families in Michigan and across the country have been feeling for some time, but we need to know he shares our sense of urgency. “Unfortunately, the President is pushing a stimulus package that leaves out one of the quickest, most effective ways to stimulate our economy – extending unemployment insurance. Economists and experts from both sides of the aisle agree that extending unemployment insurance will immediately boost consumer spending, while allowing individuals more time to search for a job in a difficult market. I will continue to lead this effort in the Senate Finance Committee. “In the long term, we cannot forget that the best way to stimulate the economy and remain competitive in the global marketplace is by creating good paying jobs. That is why I have put forward my Green Collar Jobs initiative that will invest in the newest alternative energy technologies, making sure the next generation of vehicles is made in America and most importantly, create quality, good-paying jobs here at home. “Tonight, the President called on Congress to implement more trade agreements. With approximately 77,500 Michigan workers losing their jobs last year alone, what we really need in this country is a comprehensive trade policy that puts American workers and businesses first. We need to be enforcing our trade laws, improving product safety, keeping our promises to working Americans and ensuring a level playing field.” – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow |
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POSTED 1/29/08 Stabenow, Mayors From Across America Address Challenges Facing Our Cities Discuss more federal funding for local infrastructure, law enforcement, schools WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Harry Reid (D-NV), and Chuck Schumer (D-NY), along with Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin, Providence Mayor David Cicilline, and Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak today held a press conference to address the needs of our communities and families here at home. Prior to the press conference, the Democratic Steering and Outreach Committee, chaired by Senator Stabenow, held a meeting where the Senators and Mayors discussed the need for the federal government to invest in the needs of our American cities, especially during this time of economic and budgetary hardship, by allocating funding for local infrastructure, first responder programs, and education. “At a time when the housing market is slumping, the price of education is on the rise, and law enforcement programs are being cut, we are working with our nation’s mayors to restore important funding that has been slashed by this Administration,” Stabenow said. “Middle-class families across our country are struggling – the time to act is now.” “America’s cities help make our national economy the strongest in the world,” Reid said. “But today those cities are seeing jobs disappear and incomes drop. It is becoming harder and harder for citizens to build equity in a home or build a foundation for their families. Together with our nation’s mayors, we will reverse some of President Bush’s disastrous cuts in important civic programs like law enforcement, education and Community Development Block Grants. And we must reverse current trends so that incomes go up, unemployment goes down and our economy is strong once again.” Said Schumer: “Unfortunately for our cities and towns, the effects of the housing crisis have been profound and far-reaching. The foreclosure crisis has rippled outward, causing home values to decline and economic insecurity to increase. Our mayors and governors are faced with tough choices and no good answers.” The Mayors shared firsthand accounts of the lack of support they receive from the Bush Administration on issues critical to urban areas, large and small, such as affordable housing, access to a quality education, job training, as well as crime prevention and funding for first responders. Said Franklin: “Atlanta and other rural and urban communities have been impacted by high gas prices, increasing unemployment and foreclosures, so it is critical that we all work to not just stimulate the economy but provide relief to millions of Americans.” “Twenty-first-century America is a city-powered economy, but federal policy is stuck in the past,” Cicilline said. “Senate Democrats have been aggressively making this case for several years, and this package will make up for a lot of lost time at an extremely critical time.” |
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POSTED 1/27/08 Stabenow Statement on President’s Comments Regarding Economic Stimulus Package WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today made the following statement regarding the President’s comments today regarding an emergency fiscal stimulus package: “Middle-class families all over Michigan and across our country are struggling - the time to act is now. I appreciate that the President has finally recognized the economic problems facing our nation, but it’s critical that any economic stimulus package must be focused on supporting the middle-class families and small businesses that are truly feeling the effects of the economic downturn. “We shouldn’t be giving rebate checks to the wealthy, and we shouldn’t be giving tax breaks to companies that are sending jobs overseas. The people of Michigan have been struggling for too long. We need a package that invests in those who need it most, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure that this legislation gives a jump start to the middle class and invests in businesses that are creating jobs at home.” – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow |
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POSTED 1/27/08 Stabenow, Levin Announce USDA to Purchase Up to 8 Million Pounds of Red Tart Cherry Products WASHINGTON – Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Carl Levin (D-MI) announced today that the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) will buy up to 8.1 million pounds of tart cherry products for donation to its Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) program. Michigan produces more red tart cherries than any other area in the world. "Michigan cherries serve as a healthy supplement for our nation's nutrition programs, including our school lunch programs," said Stabenow. "In the new legislative year, I will continue to lead the effort to provide consumers with more of the fresh fruits and vegetables that keep our nation healthy. The Farm Bill that passed the Senate late last year was a big win for our state's farmers and families, and today's announcement from the USDA is more good news for our state." “This is good news for Michigan’s cherry farmers,” said Levin. “The USDA’s purchases will reward hard-working Michigan families and provide millions of Americans with a healthful and delicious addition to their diet.” Philip J. Korson, President of the Cherry Marketing Institute said, "Today's announcement that USDA will purchase up to 8.1 million pounds of tart red cherries is welcome news for the cherry growers and handlers in our state. On behalf of the entire tart cherry industry, we know this purchase will have a positive effect and will translate into better prices for our growers and is an important investment in Michigan's agricultural economy. We remain grateful for the leadership within the Administration and in Congress who value our healthful Michigan product and support it by including it in important federal feeding programs, such as the National School Lunch Program." The FNS program supports a wide variety of national food assistance initiatives, including school breakfast and lunch programs, nutrition programs for the elderly and emergency food assistance services for victims of natural disasters. The USDA’s Agriculture Marketing Service (AMS) will now publicly invite bids to provide the total amount needed, which will be determined by an FNS survey of potential recipients. |
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POSTED 1/27/08 Stabenow Statement on 2006 National Health Expenditure Data Report shows increased availability of generics, but overall health costs still outpace inflation WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today made the following statement regarding the analysis of 2006 National Health Expenditure data, released today by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) Office of the Actuary. The analysis was released today in the journal Health Affair. “I’m pleased that my continued efforts to increase accessibility to safe, affordable generic alternatives are paying off. Beyond what these numbers tell us, we are seeing the political will we need to effect real change. Last year, I led the successful fight to change FDA rules to allow more generics into the marketplace. This new law is increasing competition, which means lower prices for consumers and employers. Reducing the costs of prescription drugs is a critical component in staying competitive in a global economy and protecting American jobs. “However, this report also shows that overall health care costs are still rising much faster than inflation. It is simply unacceptable that in the greatest country in the world, so many middle-class families struggle to keep up with the skyrocketing costs of health care. As we enter the new legislative year, I will continue my fight to ensure every American has access to quality, affordable health care.” —U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow |
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POSTED 1/20/08 Stabenow Mortgage Tax Legislation Becomes Law President Signs Stabenow Legislation Helping Families in Mortgage Crisis WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today joined President George W. Bush at the White House, as the President signed Stabenow’s mortgage tax relief legislation into law. The legislation changes current law that forces individuals to pay an income tax when they have had a part of their mortgage loan forgiven or have been forced to foreclose. “This law is critical to ensuring that families across our state who face foreclosure will not be hit with an additional tax bill this year. It adds insult to injury when someone loses their home and gets a new tax bill on top of it.” said Stabenow. “I appreciate the support of the President and my Senate and House colleagues in turning my legislation into law. I look forward to continuing the critical effort to help the thousands of Michigan families faced with the prospect of losing their home.” Declining home prices and rising foreclosure rates have left too many middle-class families having to sell their homes for less than they paid for them, and sometimes for less than the outstanding debt. The IRS currently taxes any loan forgiveness as “income”. The Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act will relieve families of a tax burden when their lender forgives part of the mortgage on a principal residence. Senator Stabenow recently met with the U.S. Conference of Mayors to discuss what needs to be done to help families. And as chair of the Democratic Steering and Outreach Committee, she brought together Senators, representatives of the housing industry and advocacy groups to discuss how we can work together to address families struggling to keep their homes. Michigan has recorded over 135,000 foreclosure filings on the year. The Detroit metropolitan area ranked second highest in the third quarter for the rate of households in foreclosure in the 100 largest metropolitan areas, with 1 out of every 33 households. The signing ceremony took place at 1:00 pm today at the White House. |
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POSTED 12/10/07 moved 12/25/07 Stabenow, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan E-Prescribing Legislation to Save Lives and Lower Medical Costs
Supported by broad coalition of patient advocates and medical experts
“E-prescribing will save money, save time,
save doctors from piles of paperwork, and most importantly, save lives,”
said Sen. Kerry. “Deaths and injuries from hand-written prescriptions
could be nearly eliminated if e-prescriptions were adopted on a wide
scale. We need to seize this bi-partisan opportunity and make this
common sense reform a reality now.” “With this bill, we're helping to bring our
healthcare system into the 21st Century in a way that will result in
fewer mistakes and lower costs," said Sen. Ensign. "Doctors and medical
professionals should utilize the best of today's technology to improve
patient safety and advance our quality of health care. E-prescribing is
an easy solution that will save lives, time and money.” |
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POSTED 12/10/07 Senator Stabenow’s Monthly Newspaper Column: A Major Victory for Michigan’s Fruit and Vegetable Growers By U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow The fall season is truly in full swing. The leaves are changing and continue to blanket our lawns. Farmers across Michigan have harvested their crops, and families are planning to get together for Thanksgiving. With our farmers and families in mind, the Senate Agriculture Committee has recently passed the 2007 Farm Bill. As a member of the Committee, I am proud to say that this bill, which only comes around once every five years, is a big win for our state. Whether it’s support for nutrition, alternative energy, conservation, rural development or traditional farm programs, Michigan families will benefit from every aspect of this bill we’ve written. Here in Michigan, where agriculture is the second largest industry, we grow a greater variety of crops than any other state besides California and we’re a national leader in the production of numerous crops, including blueberries, apples, cherries, asparagus and celery. To highlight just one of the big wins for Michigan in this bill, for the first time in history, our country’s fruits and vegetables – called specialty crops – are being properly recognized in the farm bill. Through research dollars, programs to combat pests and disease, and competitive grants - just to name a few provisions - this Farm Bill puts a new focus on the important contribution our fruit and vegetable growers make to the economy and the health of our nation. This is a win not only for Michigan’s farmers, but for consumers as well. Each of us can recall our grandparents or parents telling us to eat our fruits and vegetables. The problem is if we all heeded that advice, we’d simply run out of healthy options. Reports suggest that if every American consumed the federal dietary guidelines of 5 to 13 daily servings of fruits and vegetables, there wouldn’t be enough to go around. This bill seeks to reverse that trend by expanding a number of nutrition programs, including the successful Fruit and Vegetable Program which could bring $6 million to our state next year and provide fresh fruit and vegetables to approximately 120,000 elementary school children. This bill also expands support for farmers markets, community gardens and organic farming. With the rates of obesity and related disease, such as diabetes, on the rise, ensuring our children have access to healthy food choices is an important investment in America’s future. And it is important to make that investment while showing support for American products. That is why I authored a provision, which says that all federal funds must be used to buy fruits and vegetables from American farmers and growers. When it comes to keeping our families healthy, Michigan growers are at the forefront, delivering for our country. I was proud to lead this successful effort in this Farm Bill and will continue the fight for Michigan’s farmers and families as a member of the Agriculture Committee. |
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POSTED 12/10/07 Stabenow, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan E-Prescribing Legislation to Save Lives and Lower Medical Costs
Supported by broad coalition of patient advocates and medical experts
“E-prescribing will save money, save time,
save doctors from piles of paperwork, and most importantly, save lives,”
said Sen. Kerry. “Deaths and injuries from hand-written prescriptions
could be nearly eliminated if e-prescriptions were adopted on a wide
scale. We need to seize this bi-partisan opportunity and make this
common sense reform a reality now.” “With this bill, we're helping to bring our
healthcare system into the 21st Century in a way that will result in
fewer mistakes and lower costs," said Sen. Ensign. "Doctors and medical
professionals should utilize the best of today's technology to improve
patient safety and advance our quality of health care. E-prescribing is
an easy solution that will save lives, time and money.” |
Appropriations Committee has approved a bill to fund $99,770,000 in military
construction projects in Michigan for fiscal year 2009. The Detroit Arsenal in
Warren will receive more than two-thirds of that amount, $68.5 million, to
support the influx of more than 1,000 personnel moving to the base from other
locations around the country. 
The
military construction bill still needs to be approved by the full Senate and a
House-Senate conference committee before being given final approval by Congress
and being signed into law by the president. 
WASHINGTON
— The bill would have protected patients’ access to quality,
affordable health care. Due to the defeat, a 10% Medicare payment cut to
physicians and health care providers lasting eighteen months will take place on
July 1st. 
Michigan
boasts a $60 billion agriculture industry and is among the most diverse farming
states in the country, in terms of different crops. 
This
provision was necessary because the FDA does not approve an abbreviated new drug
application (ANDA) for a generic product until all underlying issues in a
citizen petition concerning the drug have been addressed. Some brand companies
routinely file citizen petitions on an ANDA on the eve of the generic product’s
approval, sabotaging the marketing of a cost-saving generic for months, if not
years. According to a Merrill Lynch review of citizen petitions filed between
2000 and 2005, more than three-quarters of them were dismissed as having no
merit. 
Stabenow’s
amendment comes on the heels of today’s Department of Labor report announcing
the single largest monthly job loss in five years, including 48,000 in the
manufacturing sector alone. The last twelve months have resulted in the loss of
300,000 manufacturing jobs. “Across our state and across our country,
middle-class families are struggling,” said Stabenow. “Today’s Department of
Labor report that 80,000 jobs were lost nationally last month only serves to
underscore what we have known in Michigan for some time. My amendment is a
critical step in reversing these trends, stimulating the economy, and creating
quality, good-paying middle-class jobs here at home.” 
Today,
we pay tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who was killed 40 years ago in
Memphis, Tennessee. We look back on this day to honor a man whose life, though
it ended prematurely at the age of 39, dedicated his time on this earth to
promoting peace, equality, and economic justice. We don’t celebrate a single
victory, but rather the continuing drive that has moved generations to action.
And in doing so, we are reminded of how much progress we have made in the last
40 years while acknowledging that there’s still plenty of work to do.” “Forty
years later we are again fighting another war that is costing thousands of young
American lives and turning the attention and resources away from our economic
problems here at home. We still live in a country where over 47 million people
lack health insurance and too many African Americans live in poverty.” 
today introduced the China Currency Manipulation Act of 2008, which will put a
stop to currency manipulation by China that is distorting international trade
and creating a threat to the global economy. All three Senators also expect to
work together in the near future to strengthen the trade remedies in Senate
currency legislation reported by the Senate Finance and Banking Committees.
Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today announced that the Senate has unanimously
supported her resolution, once again designating March 26 as “National Support
the Troops and Their Families Day.” Senator Carl Levin (D-MI) is a co-sponsor of
this resolution. 
WASHINGTON
—U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), along with 31 of her Senate colleagues,
including all 16 women senators, today sent a letter to Chairman Kennedy (D-MA)
and Ranking Member Enzi (R-WY) urging them to schedule the HEART for Women Act
(S.573) mark-up this spring in the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and
Pensions (HELP). This important legislation outlines simple but major steps that
we can take today to help address the impact of heart disease on women across
the country. “Every minute in America, a woman falls
victim to heart disease, stroke, or other cardiovascular diseases,” said
Stabenow. “The HELP Committee must move forward with this critical legislation,
so we can help prevent, diagnose, and treat heart disease.” 
WASHINGTON
– U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today made the following statement
regarding the President’s comments today regarding an emergency fiscal stimulus
package: 
WASHINGTON
D.C. – Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) along with fellow senators John
Kerry (D-MA), John Ensign (R-NV), and Mel Martinez (R-FL) led a
bipartisan group of legislators today to introduce legislation which
would help expedite the implementation of electronic prescribing
technology in doctor’s offices throughout the country. Prescribing
electronically save lives and cut costs on a massive scale by minimizing
errors associated with hand written prescriptions.