March 2011 Archives

Reps. Johnson, Markey move to end China's monopoly, secure access to strategic minerals

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Hank Johnson (D-GA) today introduced the Resource Assessment of Rare Earths (RARE) Act of 2011, which directs the United States Geological Survey (USGS) to conduct a three-year, comprehensive global mineral assessment of rare earth elements (REEs).

Rep. Edward Markey (D-MA), a national leader on energy and the environment and Ranking Member on the House Natural Resources Committee, is the lead original cosponsor of the bill.

Critical to high-tech clean-energy and defense manufacturing, rare earth elements (REEs) are strategic minerals used in the production of cutting-edge technologies such as wind turbines, advanced batteries, powerful magnets, and military radar systems.

China accounts for 97% of global rare earth element production and has demonstrated a willingness to restrict REE exports. The Chinese monopoly is a strategic vulnerability for the United States that could undermine national security and competitiveness in the defense and clean-energy sectors.

“Like President Obama, I am committed to a future powered by clean energy,” said Johnson. “Without secure access to rare earth elements, we will be unable to lead the world in cleantech. The RARE Act will dramatically advance our ability to access rare earths worldwide.”

The USGS global assessment, conducted with geological surveys of partner nations around the world, will identify and quantify individual rare earth elements in known deposits, improve understanding of the distribution and formation of rare earth element deposits, assess likely undiscovered deposits worldwide, analyze the state of the complete rare earths supply chain from mining to manufacturing, and recommend further research and steps to improve our understanding and ensure access.

Rep. Markey (D-Mass.), Ranking Member on the House Natural Resources Committee, said that if America is to keep pace with China and Germany in clean energy technology, access to rare earth elements will be crucial.    
 
“From wind turbines to solar panels to energy efficient light bulbs, America needs a reliable supply of rare earth materials to manufacture our clean energy future,” said Markey. “Unfortunately, we have gone from self reliance in the production of our rare earth materials to 100 percent reliance on imports, mostly from China. This bill will help reverse that troubling trend and give industry the tools and information to get America back in the rare earths business.”

In a letter to Rep. Johnson, U.S. Magnetic Materials Association President Ed Richardson wrote: “This bill represents an important piece of a much-needed comprehensive approach to understanding current and future domestic and international supply of and demand for rare earth elements.”

Original cosponsors include Reps. Edward J. Markey, Chris Van Hollen, Ben Ray Luján, André Carson, John Garamendi, Rush Holt, Daniel Lipinski, and Michael Michaud.

Rare Earth Elements in the News

Got Yttrium? (March 28, 2011): But over the years, the U.S. saw domestic production of rare earths dwindle even as the metals became that much more important.
Source: Time

China to issue new rare earth export quotas (Mar 14, 2011): China will issue a second batch of rare earth export quotas later this year, but the total volume for 2011 has yet to be decided.
Source: Reuters

The race to make the world's strongest magnet (March 9, 2011): His team accidentally had created what was then, and continues to be, the world's strongest magnet -- made of a strange and little understood "rare earth" element called neodymium. That magnet would help revolutionize technology, powering wind turbine motors and giving juice to electric cars.
Source: CNN

As China slashes exports of rare earth elements, U.S. mine digs for more (February 20, 2011): Elements such as cerium, neodymium and dysprosium are crucial to the clean-tech and high-tech industries, but China has slashed exports. A Colorado firm hopes to fill the void by ratcheting up output from a mine in the Mojave Desert.
Source: Los Angeles Times

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Congressman receives Animal Welfare Leadership Award for 2010 legislative work
 
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) will award Judiciary and House Armed Services Committee member Rep. Hank Johnson (D-GA) with its annual Legislative Leader award for his work in 2010. 

The Humane Society praised Johnson for his leadership on appropriations language encouraging the Secretary of Defense to develop alternatives to the use of live animals in battlefield trauma training.

“Studies show that animals physically feel pain, just like humans,” said Johnson. “How we treat animals reflects our values as a society and stewardship of the planet. We must do all we can to treat animals with respect and kindness, and defeat animal cruelty wherever we can.”

Johnson received his award at a reception in the Capitol.

“Representative Johnson has been an important voice for enhancing animal protection in federal law,” said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The HSUS. “We’re grateful to him for taking the lead and drawing attention to these vital concerns.”

Johnson announced today that he will cosponsor H.R. 403 in the 112th Congress, the Battlefield Excellence through Superior Training Practices Act or BEST Practices Act, which prohibits the use of animals in live combat trauma injury and chemical and biological training.

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Congressman writes Gates, Holder and Clapper; says he will lead investigation himself if necessary
 
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Hank Johnson (D-GA-04) has requested that the Department of Defense, Department of Justice, and Director of National Intelligence turn over to Congress all contracts with intelligence firms HBGary Federal, Palantir Technologies, and Berico Technologies.  (Click HERE to read the letters – .pdf, 3 pgs)

Rep. Johnson has led calls for a formal Congressional probe into allegations that the contractors conspired to use intelligence and counterterrorism tools to attack U.S. citizens.  “We need aggressive action to defend American citizens in the cyber domain,” said Johnson.  “This scandal cries out for a full investigation.  I’ll do it myself if I have to.”

Bush Administration counterterrorism and cybersecurity chief Richard Clarke speculated in an interview with ThinkProgress last week that the private use of cyberwarfare tools against U.S. citizens would constitute a criminal offense.  “I think it’s a violation of 10USC,” said Clarke.  “I think it’s a felony, and I think they should go to jail.” (Click HERE to read story)

On March 1, Johnson and nineteen House colleagues sent a letter to the House Armed Services, Judiciary, Intelligence, and Oversight & Government Reform committees requesting a formal investigation into the alleged conspiracy.

At a March 16 hearing of the House Armed Services Committee Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities, Johnson questioned Gen. Keith Alexander (commander of U.S. Cyber Command and director of the NSA) and Dr. James Miller, Jr. (Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Policy) regarding allegations that the three intelligence contractors and the law firm Hunton & Williams conspired to spy on and harm U.S. citizens using tools and technologies developed for counterterrorism.  Click HERE for video of the exchange.

According to emails recently made public, the alleged high-tech “dirty tricks” campaign planned by contractors and law firm may have included cyber attacks against political opponents of Hunton & Williams' clients, the submission of fraudulent documents to discredit targeted U.S. citizens, and the manipulation of online social networks to find damaging information.

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Congressman speaks to seniors on health care, Social Security and Medicare
 
LITHONIA, GA – Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) visited with seniors March 23 at the Lou Walker Senior Center on the one-year anniversary of President Obama signing the Affordable Care Act into law.

Johnson spoke with seniors about the future of Social Security and Medicare, and the status of Affordable Care Act at age one (1).

“Don’t believe the hype ladies and gentlemen, the Affordable Health Care law is alive and well,” said Johnson. “And while the bulk of the law’s benefits take place in 2014, the law is already proving a benefit to seniors by cutting prescription drug costs, providing free annual wellness visits and strengthening the Medicare Trust Fund by 12 years.”

Johnson also said the law provides new tools to crack down on Medicare fraud, helps seniors remain at home and stay out of nursing homes and provides nursing home residents more protections from abuse.

“By 2014 once the exchanges are established, insurance companies will no longer be able to discriminate against any consumers with pre-existing conditions and no one will face annual or lifetime caps on coverage,” he said.

The future of Social Security and Medicare was also discussed. Johnson took several questions from the audience, who were concerned about the twin programs.

“America’s seniors have worked hard under the assumption that Social Security and Medicare will be there for you -- and you deserve to have the system you paid into and were promised all those years.  I am being very mindful of efforts, disguised as solutions, which will raise premiums, cut benefits, and limit your choices and I will fight them at every turn."

Photo above: Hank greets a constituent at the Lou Walker Senior Center on Wednesday, March 23 before speaking to seniors about the future of Social Security, Medicare and celebrate the 1-year anniversary of the Affordable Care Act.  

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WASHINGTON DC – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04) released the following statement on 40th Anniversary of the Congressional Black Caucus:

“I’ve been hearing a lot lately about our Founding Fathers, but there are two more recent Democratic heroes of mine, and Founding Fathers in their own right, that I want to honor -- the Honorable Charles Rangel and the Honorable John Conyers.

It’s hard to believe that my friends and mentors Reps. Rangel and Conyers were part of the founding of the Congressional Black Caucus 40 years ago.

Not only is it an honor to serve with these two great Americans as we celebrate 40 years of service to our nation, I am also humbled to serve alongside the 42 Members of the Congressional Black Caucus during our 40th Anniversary.

Their foresight and political acumen helped to launch and sustain the Congressional Black Caucus. I truly sense that I’m standing on the shoulders of giants as I follow my own path of commitment to defend and guard the change we have all worked so diligently to achieve. 

We in the CBC will not compromise when it comes to the welfare of our constituents and communities. Our top priority remains getting Americans back to work by creating economic opportunity for all, not cutting critical programs that impact the welfare of our most vulnerable communities. We will work diligently to ensure our children have the ability to learn from pre-school to college. While many attempt to destroy the reforms we’ve made, the CBC remains steadfast and committed to defending and ensuring equal access to fairness, justice and equality for all.”

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Congressman files bill to protect unemployed in Civil Rights law; Johnson: ‘All Americans Deserve the Opportunity to Work’
 
 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) today introduced the Fair Employment Act of 2011 – H.R. 1113 – which would amend the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to protect against discrimination on the basis of unemployment status.

Congressman Johnson’s bill responds to widespread reports of job listings that explicitly exclude unemployed applicants. Some advertisements stated that applicants “must be currently employed” or stipulated that “no unemployed candidates will be considered at all.” Some ads read, “No layoff candidates considered.”

“Employer discrimination against unemployed job applicants is fundamentally wrong,” said Rep. Johnson, who represents parts of DeKalb, Rockdale and Gwinnett counties in eastern metropolitan Atlanta.  “With unemployment at about 9 percent and with nearly 14 million Americans out of work, this discrimination will only prolong the crisis.”

According to a Bureau of Labor Statistics report in February 2011, the national unemployment rate is 8.9 percent.  The rates for African-Americans and Hispanics, however, are 15.3 percent and 11.6 percent, respectively.

“Discrimination against the unemployed smacks of days gone by when signs read, ‘women need not apply,’ ‘Irish need not apply’ or ‘no Blacks allowed,’ said Johnson. “I'm going to do all I can to fight for the unemployed.”

In November, 2010, Rep. Johnson sent a letter to U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEOC) Commission Chair Jacqueline Berrien to request an investigation into possible discrimination against the unemployed.

The EEOC held a hearing on the issue Feb. 16, where they identified this troubling trend as growing threat to the unemployed, especially the long-term unemployed.

As Chair Berrien said, “[The] meeting gave the Commission an important opportunity to learn about the emerging practice of excluding unemployed persons from applicant pools.”

Johnson, a member of the Judiciary and Armed Services committees, has 11 cosponsors, including Barbara Lee, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Yvette Clark, Keith Ellison, Raul Grijalva, Jim McDermott, Shelia Jackson-Lee, Ed Towns, Bennie Thompson and Charlie Rangel.

To view the bill, click here.

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Congressman Johnson welcomes return of 2011 Congressional Arts Competition; Scholarships worth up to $10,000 at stake

 LITHONIA – Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) looks forward to hosting this year’s 2011 Congressional Arts Competition, an annual event displaying the community’s finest artistic talent.
 
Eligible high school students throughout the district, which include parts of DeKalb, Gwinnett, and Rockdale counties, are encouraged to apply and display their talent in this year’s contest.

Entries must be designed according to the specifications in the competition guidelines, which can be found at Congressman Johnson’s Web site at http://www.hankjohnson.house.gov/services/artistic-discovery.shtml.

Each district will honor its winning artwork by hanging it in the tunnel leading to the United States Capitol building in Washington, D.C., for a year. The 2011 Congressional Art Competition winner from the Fourth District will also receive transportation for two to Washington, D.C., for the ribbon-cutting event to unveil all the 2011 winners.

In addition to having his/her artwork at the Capitol, winners of the competition will be eligible for college scholarships from the Art Institute of Atlanta ($10,000, $5,000, and $2,500) or the Savannah College of Art and Design ($1,500 per year).

All art entries must be received in the congressman’s district office, located at 5700 Hillandale Drive, Lithonia, GA 30058 between April 12-14, 2011. If you have any questions, please e-mail Eric Hubbard at eric.hubbard@mail.house.gov or Betty Dixon betty.dixon@mail.house.gov in our Lithonia office or call them at 770-987-2291.

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Since 2007, Congressman’s office helps thousands of residents navigate housing, health care, Social Security, IRS and Veterans benefits
 
 LITHONIA, GA – Since taking office in 2007, Congressman Hank Johnson has worked to secure $3,168,602.38 for those seeking help from his offices in Georgia’s 4th Congressional District.

“Helping my constituents navigate the federal bureaucracy is one of the most important things I do,” Rep. Johnson said. “When I first ran for office in 2006, I promised I would take care of home first. I’m here to ensure that constituents receive the money and benefits due them from the federal government.”

Johnson, whose Washington, D.C. and District offices have a strong reputation throughout Georgia and the nation for stellar constituent services, said he will continue to put constituents first.

“As always, I value constituents’ input and welcome their comments. Being District 4’s representative in Washington is a singular honor, and I appreciate helping constituents above everything else. Listening to residents and bringing their concerns to Washington is why I’m here.”

Johnson’s office has helped more than 3,500 constituents receive $3,168,602.38 since 2007. The following are some success stories:

Veterans Affairs: One homeless South DeKalb veteran contacted Congressman Johnson’s office after more than 14 years of being unable to collect his disability benefits. After six months of Johnson’s office working the case with the Veterans Benefits Administration, the constituent received more than $350,000. He is no longer homeless and continues to receive full disability benefits from the VA.

Social Security: Recently, Congressman Johnson was able to assist a constituent from Decatur who asked for help obtaining Social Security benefits. After an inquiry was sent, Social Security Administration found in favor of the man and awarded him $53,682 in retroactive benefits.

Internal Revenue Service: Recently, Congressman Johnson cleared up an issue for a constituent who had an issue with the IRS. For six years, the constituent had problems getting her tax refund. Johnson’s office worked on the case for more than two years, and eventually helped the constituent get more than $34,000 in tax refunds.

Housing: Since 2009, Johnson’s office has helped more than 650 residents deal with pending foreclosures on their homes.

Additional Agencies: Johnson’s offices in Lithonia, Conyers and soon in Northlake Mall in Tucker stand ready to assist residents of Georgia 4th Congressional District with their federal agency problems. For a full list of services, visit Johnson’s constituent service section of his Web site. [http://hankjohnson.house.gov/services/assistance-with-federal-agencies.shtml]

Since 2007, Johnson and his staff have held dozens of town halls, handled tens of thousands of pieces of constituent correspondence and engaged in countless meetings with area residents to hear concerns and correct problems Georgia residents had with the federal government. Through this outreach campaign, Johnson secured more than $3 million the government owed seniors, veterans, families and small business owners.

Johnson’s 4th Congressional District encompasses more than 275 square miles and more than 700,000 residents over three counties – DeKalb, Rockdale and Gwinnett. Congressman Johnson has worked to offer easy ways for constituents to stay engaged and keep in contact:

► Town Halls: Since taking office in 2007, he launched “Congress on Your Corner,” and participated in a host of community events to hear directly from constituents. In August 2009, Johnson held a town hall on health care reform that was a model for the nation. More than 3,000 people attended. In 2009-10, Johnson held three jobs fairs in the span of 13 months that served more than 2,000 constituents, with some receiving job offers on the spot. Johnson has held five “telephone town halls” with more than 100,000 residents since 2009.

► Partnership Alliance Learning Series (PALS): Congressman Johnson launched a unique program called PALS that teaches nonprofits and small businesses how to join forces to compete for federal grants and small business opportunities. It also connects nonprofits and small businesses to federal, state and local resources.

► Mobile Office Hours: We need to explore this – regular events at libraries and public offices throughout the region. Johnson holds open office hours at Conyers City Hall on Scott Street and Northlake Mall in Tucker twice a month for constituents who may not have time to travel to his Lithonia office.

► Web site: Johnson’s Web site http://hankjohnson.house.gov is a one-stop shop for news updates, e-newsletters, speeches, legislation, constituent services, videos, photos and place where constituents can e-mail their representative directly. Johnson corresponded with more than 38,851 constituents through e-mail in 2010 alone, and average about 3,000 a month.

► E-Newsletter: Congressman Johnson sends regular updates to more than 12,000 constituents from his office for subscribers of his e-newsletter. For those interested in signing up for these updates, visit https://hankjohnsonforms.house.gov/enews.shtml.

► Social Media: Congressman Johnson can also be reached through Facebook [http://www.facebook.com/pages/Congressman-Hank-Johnson/115356957005] and Twitter [http://twitter.com/RepHankJohnson].

► Offices: For face-to-face meetings and help with federal agencies, Congressman Johnson and his staff are available at three offices in Georgia (Lithonia, Conyers and Tucker) and in Washington, D.C., Longworth Building 1427. In Georgia, call 770-987-2291 and in Washington, call 202-225-1605. Please call ahead or for an appointment or request a meeting online at https://hankjohnsonforms.house.gov/meeting-request.shtml.

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Amendment No. 10,  Rep. Johnson, House Judiciary Committee, Thursday, March 3, 2011

Amends Section 303 to provide it does not apply in the case of a taxpayer who is an individual, except to the extent that such amount is paid or incurred in carrying on a trade or business. 

"Mr. Chairman, my amendment would prevent tax increases for individuals who would be subject to such increases pursuant to Section 303(1) of the bill. 

The title of this bill is misleading.  This is not about funding abortions.  We already have the Hyde Amendment which prohibits federal funding of abortions.  This is about taking away a woman’s right to choose. 

This bill is a tool that the majority is using to push the abortion debate into the tax code.  H.R. 3 would increase taxes in order to prevent women from obtaining abortion care. 

While women would be disproportionately harmed under the bill because they are most likely to spend funds on abortion procedures, men would be affected as well.
Many men purchase insurance policies that cover their family, spouse and dependents, and may use funds to cover abortion care for them. 

Again, this is baffling to me.  The same lawmakers who campaigned on growing our economy and cutting taxes are now trying to impose new tax penalties on individuals who happen to choose a procedure that they do not agree with. 

This bill would impose tax increases on individuals who have health insurance that covers abortion.  Currently, most insurance plans cover abortion. 
This bill would make any insurance plan that includes coverage of abortion ineligible for premium assistance, thereby raising taxes on potentially millions of otherwise eligible families. 

This bill is cruel as it would raise taxes on some workers who lose their jobs as a result of outsourcing. 

Under current law, certain workers who lose their jobs as a result of outsourcing to foreign countries may be eligible for a Health Coverage Tax Credit.
The Health Coverage Tax Credit pays 80% of the costs of a qualified health plan premium for eligible workers.  H.R. 3 makes any insurance plan that includes coverage of abortion ineligible for the Health Coverage Tax Credit, thereby raising taxes on potentially thousands of displaced workers.

H.R. 3 would also impose tax increases on women who use their tax preferred savings accounts, such as flexible spending or a health savings account, to pay for abortion care. 

Currently, individuals and employers can contribute wages to these accounts and they would be exempt from taxation.  Under H.R. 3, these funds would no longer be exempt, and she would have to pay income tax on any funds needed to cover an abortion procedure. 

Further, this bill would penalize low and middle-income people.  The Affordable Care Act created a refundable tax credit for individuals who purchase health insurance through an exchange. 

Under this bill, individuals who purchase insurance on an exchange would lose a tax credits, and practically be precluded from obtaining insurance with coverage for abortion care.

The fact that H.R. 3 specifically references premium assistance shows the sponsor’s intent that it apply to the Affordable Care Act.   

Why would we want to hurt women, low and middle-income individuals, and displaced workers?  That is what this bill would do. 

I urge the Members of the Committee to vote this amendment out favorably. 

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I yield back the balance of my time." 
 

Rep. Hank Johnson amends Section 311 to provide the bill shall not take effect unless the Attorney General submits a report to Congress setting forth the effect of the bill on women’s access to abortion and health benefits coverage that includes coverage of abortion.

March 3, 2011

"Mr. Chairman, this is an important amendment.  It is imperative that Congress know the effect this bill would have on women’s access to abortion and to health benefits coverage of abortion.
My amendment would delay implementation of the bill until the Attorney General submits a report to Congress setting forth the effect of the bill on women’s access to abortion and health benefits coverage that includes coverage of abortion.
 
Despite the Manager’s Amendment, this bill is still dangerous as it restricts health care for women.  The decision about whether or not to have an abortion is a difficult choice for women.  This is not a choice that is made lightly.  This is a decision that women should have the right to make without government intrusion. 

I find it ironic that the majority would interfere in such a private matter.  My colleagues on the other side of the aisle have always prided themselves on the ideology that the government should not interfere in the personal lives of Americans. 

They believe that the government should stay out of your wallet and out of the private contours of your home.  I must say that I am baffled by the fact that the majority is pushing a bill that would directly interfere with a woman’s private choice of whether or not to have an abortion.  
I am especially concerned about how this bill will affect the most vulnerable women in our society.  Restricting public funding for abortion will especially hurt low-income women.  Low-income women may have to sacrifice basic needs such as paying for groceries and rent to save money for an abortion.

The majority has already pushed through a Continuing Resolution that will harm all women, whether they are poor or middle class.  The majority has already slashed funding for Title X which provided crucial family planning services.  The majority has already eliminated federal funding for Planned Parenthood. 
Now, the majority wants to push through a bill that would put another roadblock in front of women when seeking health care coverage.  All of this amounts to nothing more than a full-fledged attack on women and their access to health care.   
    
Some women who could not afford an abortion might be forced to resort to self-inducing abortions or to the back-alleys of untrained, unlicensed practitioners, which would compromise their health.

Alicia was a 26 year-old graduate student from Maryland. She had been through a lot in her short life.   Her mother had been murdered, and after that she felt like her life had shattered into pieces.  She was having trouble working, keeping up with school and supporting her one year-old child.  She also feared eviction because she was behind on rent. 

Alicia had no idea she was pregnant until she went to her school clinic to obtain birth control and took a pregnancy test.  At that point, she had to sell possessions, forgo paying bills, and risk eviction to pay for an abortion. 

To place more roadblocks in front of a woman in Alicia’s situation would just be mean-spirited.  
Judging by the number of this bill, it is the third highest priority for the majority.  At a time when America is digging itself out of a recession, and nearly 14 million people are out of work, and an unemployment rate of 9%, we should not be prioritizing bills that limit and restrict a woman’s access to health care services.  We should be focusing on growing the economy and creating jobs. 

Where I come from, actions speak louder than words.  The majority has stated that one of its top priorities is job creation, and ensuring that every American who wants to work is able to work.  However, the past couple of weeks have shown otherwise. 

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I yield back the balance of my time. "

Dear Friends,            

It was good to see so many constituents during the district work period the last week of February. It was enjoyable but busy, including meetings with constituents in the office and appearances at Commissioner Stan Watson’s forum at the Porter Sanford Arts Center, the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce event at Perimeter Center and Shiloh High School in Gwinnett County. I also had the privilege of speaking at a senior center, attending a political roundtable at the Maloof Building and visiting with Gov. Deal before heading back to Washington, D.C. I’m here to bring your ideas, thoughts and concerns back to Washington. To see photos, visit my Flickr page.

TEMPORARY BUDGET EXTENSION: On March 2, President Obama signed a measure to keep the government open until March 18. It gives us time to work out a plan to keep the government running for the rest of this fiscal year, which ends Sept. 30. Fiscal responsibility demands that we all make sacrifices.

But some of the proposed cuts to education, public safety and health care go too far, and would eliminate more than 700,000 jobs nationwide and more than 20,000 in Georgia. I pledge to work to ensure the burden is not shouldered by working families. Cuts are necessary, but not ones that prevent us from investing in our future or focus solely on domestic programs. It’s wrong to focus on just 15% of the budget to make drastic cuts that kill jobs, gut education, hurt the unemployed and stifle innovation.

Photo top: Hank joins DeKalb Chamber President Leonardo McClarty, state Rep. Elena Parent and Georgia Power's John Kelley at the Chamber's Feb. 24 meeting at Perimeter Center. Photo above: Hank chats with Bob Lundsten, DeKalb Commissioner Elaine Boyer's Chief of Staff.

KEEPING COPS ON OUR STREETS: A good example of the kinds of funding I’ll fight to protect is the Community Oriented Policing Services or COPS. I voted to restore $298 million in funding to COPS to keep more than 1,300 officers on our streets.

Since 1995, COPS has invested more than $177 million in Georgia, putting more than 2,400 officers on the streets and providing more than $24 million in technology upgrades. In 2009, DeKalb County received $3.1 million to fund 15 officers, and Conyers received more than $400,000 for three officers. Last year, Doraville received a grant for $385,000 to hire two officers. For more, click here.

Photo above: Hank presents a $385,000 check to Doraville Police Chief John King for 2 additional officers funded through the COPS program.

JOB TRAINING ESSENTIAL: Another program I’ll fight for is the Workforce Investment Act that Republicans are trying to zero out. They claim it’s ineffective, but constituents and officials I’ve spoken with say it helps 70% of participants find jobs within three months.

While unemployment is still above 10% in Georgia and higher still for minorities, we must do all we can to help people find work. Georgia has received more than $145 million since 2009 under this program to help retrain workers. Goodwill of Georgia and the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) two recipients who administer these funds run excellent job-training programs in DeKalb, Rockdale and Gwinnett counties. For more, click here.

Photo above: Hank takes time for state Rep. Dar'shun Kendrick at the DeKalb Chamber meeting Feb. 24.

JOB FAIR: The Georgia Sustainable Communities Alliance (GSCA) is a holding a job fair Tuesday, March 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Holiday Inn in downtown Decatur. Please RSVP via e-mail by March 8 to candice.bailey@bbandt.com. For more on GSCA, e-mail Derold McIver at dmciver@bbandt.com.

PROTECTING OUR FREE SPEECH, PRIVACY: Nineteen of my House colleagues joined me in calling for a Congressional investigation of evidence that three prominent defense and intelligence contractors and a leading Washington, D.C., law firm may have been planning a dirty-tricks campaign to undermine and discredit critics of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. My concern is that intelligence contractors might have been conspiring to use counterterrorism tactics and techniques, possibly illegally, against American citizens exercising free speech. For more, click here.

DISCRIMINATION AGAINST THE UNEMPLOYED: After I sent a letter asking them to look into job ads that read: “Unemployed need not apply,” the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) held a hearing on discrimination against the unemployed on Feb. 16. Hiring discrimination against unemployed job applicants is fundamentally wrong. Witness after witness confirmed that women, minorities, the elderly, disabled and veterans are being disproportionately affected by this troubling practice. I am drafting legislation to fight this injustice. For more, click here.

HELP FOR FORECLOSED VETERANS: The recession has taken a heavy toll on homeowners nationwide and here at home, and America’s service members have not been spared. Veterans who lose their homes to a short sale or a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure are eligible for up to $1,500 to find permanent housing. For more, click here.

ROCKDALE RECOGNIZED: I was pleased to hear members of my staff were able to attend the Upper Ocmulgee River Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council for their annual meeting and banquet last week. RC&D does excellent work in Gwinnett and Rockdale counties to conserve natural resources and improve the area’s economy, environment and quality of life. Congratulations to Rockdale County award recipients! This is what it’s all about – citizens working with local governments to build better communities. For more, click here.

STRAIGHT A’s ON THE ENVIRONMENT: I received a 100 percent score from The League of Conservation Voters (LCV), which works to turn environmental values into national priorities. The 2010 Scorecard – released amidst the greatest attack on the EPA’s budget in 30 years and current Congressional assaults on the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, wildlife and wild places – awarded 100% to just 119 members, including me. For more, click here.

RAIN BARREL WORKSHOP: The DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management will host a rain barrel workshop for DeKalb County citizens on March 12. Collecting rainwater in barrels for use during dry months is an effective and creative way to conserve water while reducing your water bill. To register, click here.

As always, I value your input and welcome your comments. Being your representative in Washington is a singular honor, and I appreciate you letting me know how I can be of service to you. Please share this e-letter with friends and family who live in the Fourth District and encourage them to sign up to receive these free online newsletters. 

Thanks,

Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) offered two amendments the Republicans’ H.R. 3, the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act in Judiciary Committee. The amendments would prevent the bill from taking effect until the Attorney General submitted a report to Congress outlining the effect of the bill on women’s access to abortion and health benefits coverage that includes coverage of abortion. It also would prevent tax increases for individuals who would be subject to such increases pursuant to Section 303(1) of the bill. Both amendments failed mostly along party lines.

“This is not about funding abortions,” said Johnson. “We already have the Hyde Amendment that prohibits federal funding of abortions. This is about taking away a woman’s right to choose. I am especially concerned about how this Republican bill will affect the most vulnerable women in our society.  Restricting public funding for abortion will especially hurt low-income women.  Low-income women may have to sacrifice basic needs and might force them to resort to self-inducing abortions or to the back-alleys of untrained, unlicensed practitioners.

“I find it ironic that Republicans would interfere in such a private matter. They have always prided themselves that the government should not interfere in the personal lives of Americans – and all of this during Women’s History Month. Nice. I am baffled by the fact that Republicans would push a bill that would directly interfere with a woman’s private choice.”  
 

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Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), Whip of the Progressive Caucus, issued the following statement on Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act of 2011, a measure to repeal IRS reporting requirements mandated by last year’s health care reform law.

“I voted to repeal this burdensome provision last year, but it was blocked by Republicans,” said Johnson.

“This bill shows the underlying difference between Democrats and Republicans. Democrats voted to pay for “1099” repeal by closing tax loopholes for corporations that ship jobs overseas. Now, Republicans want to pay for its repeal by slapping a $25 billion dollar tax increase on the middle class.”

Unfortunately, H.R. 4 is another attack on working families.  Specifically, Health Care Reform protected people receiving subsidies from having to pay the IRS the entire difference in their tax credit level if they saw a change in income.  Under the law, the payment amount for individuals with incomes below 400 percent of poverty was capped at $250 for an individual and $400 for a family.  However, people whose income changed even slightly above 400 percent of poverty would suddenly owe the IRS 100 percent of any tax credits they received. 

Under the Republican Middle Class Tax Increase in H.R. 4, if a family of four earning $88,000 a year gets a Christmas bonus of $250, they would be required to refund their entire health insurance tax credit of $4,640 to the government.  This legislation would increase taxes for many middle class American families.

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20 members of U.S. House call for hearings on planned ‘dirty-tricks’ campaign that targeted critics of U.S. Chamber of Commerce

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), along with 19 colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives, today called for a full and immediate Congressional investigation of evidence that three prominent defense and intelligence contactors and a leading Washington, D.C., law firm planned a dirty-tricks campaign to undermine and discredit critics of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

A series of e-mails recently revealed to the public indicates that defense contractors HBGary Federal, Berico Technologies, and Palantir Technologies may have conspired to conduct an unethical and possibly illegal campaign to undermine American citizens and organizations, including national labor unions, U.S. Chamber Watch, and the Center for American Progress.  

“We are deeply concerned by evidence that intelligence contractors may have engaged in a criminal conspiracy to target American citizens on behalf of powerful corporate interests,” said Johnson. “We believe a full Congressional investigation is warranted to determine whether laws were broken and whether existing laws are sufficient to protect Americans from high-tech dirty tricks.”

Johnson sent the letter asking for an investigation to chairs of the House Judiciary, Armed Services, Intelligence and Oversight and Government Reform committees.

Co-signers of the letter include Bruce Braley (IA-01), Donna Edwards (MD-04), Keith Ellison (MN-05), Bob Filner (CA-51), Barney Frank (MA-04), Raul Grijalva (AZ-07), Mike Honda (CA-15), Luis Gutiérrez (IL-04), Jesse Jackson, Jr. (IL-02), Shelia Jackson Lee (TX-18), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Barbara Lee (CA-09), Jim McDermott (WA-07), Chris Murphy (CT-05), Tim Ryan (OH-17), Pete Stark (CA-13), Ed Towns (NY-10), Betty Sutton (OH-13), Maxine Waters (CA-35), Peter Welch (At-Large-VT).

Congressman Johnson, who is entering his third term, serves on the House Armed Services and Judiciary Committees.

Click HERE to view the letter in full.

Democrats call for an investigation of law firm, 3 tech companies: A group of House Democrats is calling on Republican leaders to investigate a prominent Washington law firm and three federal technology contractors, who have been shown in hacked e-mails discussing a “disinformation campaign” against foes of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Source: Washington Post

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