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Obama 2012! [View all]
CDC: Health reform extends coverage to young Americans
Atlanta (CNN) -- About 2.5 million young people have received health insurance coverage as a result of health care reform measures that President Barack Obama signed into law last year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Wednesday.
The Obama administration trumpeted the figure as a sign that the controversial legislation is succeeding.
About 2.5 million more people, aged 19 to 25, have health insurance than had it before the law took effect because of a provision that lets young adults remain on their parents' insurance plans through age 26, the agency's National Center for Health Statistics said.
http://www.cnn.com/2011/12/14/health/health-insurance/index.html
Atlanta (CNN) -- About 2.5 million young people have received health insurance coverage as a result of health care reform measures that President Barack Obama signed into law last year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Wednesday.
The Obama administration trumpeted the figure as a sign that the controversial legislation is succeeding.
About 2.5 million more people, aged 19 to 25, have health insurance than had it before the law took effect because of a provision that lets young adults remain on their parents' insurance plans through age 26, the agency's National Center for Health Statistics said.
http://www.cnn.com/2011/12/14/health/health-insurance/index.html
HHS announces record number of National Health Service Corps members
WASHINGTON, Oct 13, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius today announced that the number of participants in the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) has nearly tripled. Today, more than 10,000 National Corps members -- doctors, nurses and other health care providers -- care for Americans in communities nationwide. Thanks to investments in the National Health Service Corps through the Affordable Care Act, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and annual appropriations, the NHSC has awarded nearly $900 million in scholarships and loan repayment to health care professionals to help expand the country's primary care workforce and meet the health care needs of communities across the country.
Thanks to the these critical investments in our nation's health care workforce, there are nearly three times the number of NHSC clinicians working in communities across America than there were three years ago--increasing access to health care and supporting local jobs. In 2008, approximately 3.7 million patients were provided service by 3,600 National Health Service Corps providers. Now in 2011, with field strength of more than 10,000 clinicians, the National Health Service Corps provides health care services to about 10.5 million patients.
http://www.marketwatch.com/story/hhs-announces-record-number-of-national-health-service-corps-members-2011-10-13
WASHINGTON, Oct 13, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius today announced that the number of participants in the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) has nearly tripled. Today, more than 10,000 National Corps members -- doctors, nurses and other health care providers -- care for Americans in communities nationwide. Thanks to investments in the National Health Service Corps through the Affordable Care Act, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and annual appropriations, the NHSC has awarded nearly $900 million in scholarships and loan repayment to health care professionals to help expand the country's primary care workforce and meet the health care needs of communities across the country.
Thanks to the these critical investments in our nation's health care workforce, there are nearly three times the number of NHSC clinicians working in communities across America than there were three years ago--increasing access to health care and supporting local jobs. In 2008, approximately 3.7 million patients were provided service by 3,600 National Health Service Corps providers. Now in 2011, with field strength of more than 10,000 clinicians, the National Health Service Corps provides health care services to about 10.5 million patients.
http://www.marketwatch.com/story/hhs-announces-record-number-of-national-health-service-corps-members-2011-10-13
Rate Review: Cutting Costs for Consumers and Small Businesses – Chapter One
Today, consumers got some good news when a big insurance company – Blue Shield of California – announced it will be returning $295 million to consumers and the community by the end of the year. This announcement will provide some much needed relief to families who have seen their premiums increase in recent years. And it’s the fourth positive announcement we’ve heard this week alone about health insurance premiums.
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We’ve known for a long time that rate review works, but this week alone, we’ve received more news about how rate review is helping States fighting high premium hikes and saving money for consumers:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/10/13/rate-review-cutting-costs-consumers-and-small-businesses-chapter-one
Today, consumers got some good news when a big insurance company – Blue Shield of California – announced it will be returning $295 million to consumers and the community by the end of the year. This announcement will provide some much needed relief to families who have seen their premiums increase in recent years. And it’s the fourth positive announcement we’ve heard this week alone about health insurance premiums.
<...>
We’ve known for a long time that rate review works, but this week alone, we’ve received more news about how rate review is helping States fighting high premium hikes and saving money for consumers:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/10/13/rate-review-cutting-costs-consumers-and-small-businesses-chapter-one
Health Law’s Drug Discount Saves Elderly $1.5 Billion, U.S. Says
Dec. 6 (Bloomberg) -- President Barack Obama’s administration says the health-care overhaul he championed has this year saved Medicare recipients an average of $569 a person in drug costs.
About 2.65 million people ages 65 and older have spent about $1.5 billion less on prescription drugs under a discount program on medicines created by the law signed in March 2010, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services said today in a statement. About 24 million beneficiaries in Medicare, the U.S. health program for the elderly and disabled, also had taken advantage of the law’s requirement for free preventive care, such as an annual checkup, during the first 11 months of the year, the agency said.
http://www.businessweek.com/news/2011-12-09/health-law-s-drug-discount-saves-elderly-1-5-billion-u-s-says.html
Dec. 6 (Bloomberg) -- President Barack Obama’s administration says the health-care overhaul he championed has this year saved Medicare recipients an average of $569 a person in drug costs.
About 2.65 million people ages 65 and older have spent about $1.5 billion less on prescription drugs under a discount program on medicines created by the law signed in March 2010, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services said today in a statement. About 24 million beneficiaries in Medicare, the U.S. health program for the elderly and disabled, also had taken advantage of the law’s requirement for free preventive care, such as an annual checkup, during the first 11 months of the year, the agency said.
http://www.businessweek.com/news/2011-12-09/health-law-s-drug-discount-saves-elderly-1-5-billion-u-s-says.html
Senator Sanders: A Step Forward on Health Care)
Vermont on Tuesday was awarded more than $18 million to help implement a new national health care reform law. The federal funds will help the state devise an affordable insurance exchange to make it simpler for consumers to select health insurance policies. Vermont plans to structure its exchange to be converted by 2017 to a public, single-payer health care model that would provide better care at less cost. "At a time when 50 million Americans lack health insurance and when the cost of health care continues to soar, it is my strong hope that Vermont will lead the nation in a new direction through a Medicare-for-all, single-payer approach to health care," Sen. Bernie Sanders said.
The insurance exchange would be a first step for state residents to receive federal tax credits and premium subsidies for meaningful health insurance under the federal law. Moreover, the systems established to manage an insurance exchange eventually could be used to help administer a single-payer system.
http://sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/news/?id=20BD0B94-8A65-45D9-938A-B87BBECAC4C2
Vermont on Tuesday was awarded more than $18 million to help implement a new national health care reform law. The federal funds will help the state devise an affordable insurance exchange to make it simpler for consumers to select health insurance policies. Vermont plans to structure its exchange to be converted by 2017 to a public, single-payer health care model that would provide better care at less cost. "At a time when 50 million Americans lack health insurance and when the cost of health care continues to soar, it is my strong hope that Vermont will lead the nation in a new direction through a Medicare-for-all, single-payer approach to health care," Sen. Bernie Sanders said.
The insurance exchange would be a first step for state residents to receive federal tax credits and premium subsidies for meaningful health insurance under the federal law. Moreover, the systems established to manage an insurance exchange eventually could be used to help administer a single-payer system.
http://sanders.senate.gov/newsroom/news/?id=20BD0B94-8A65-45D9-938A-B87BBECAC4C2
The Bomb Buried In Obamacare Explodes Today-Hallelujah!
<...>
That would be the provision of the law, called the medical loss ratio, that requires health insurance companies to spend 80% of the consumers’ premium dollars they collect—85% for large group insurers—on actual medical care rather than overhead, marketing expenses and profit. Failure on the part of insurers to meet this requirement will result in the insurers having to send their customers a rebate check representing the amount in which they underspend on actual medical care.
This is the true ‘bomb’ contained in Obamacare and the one item that will have more impact on the future of how medical care is paid for in this country than anything we’ve seen in quite some time. Indeed, it is this aspect of the law that represents the true ‘death panel’ found in Obamacare—but not one that is going to lead to the death of American consumers. Rather, the medical loss ratio will, ultimately, lead to the death of large parts of the private, for-profit health insurance industry.
Why? Because there is absolutely no way for-profit health insurers are going to be able to learn how to get by and still make a profit while being forced to spend at least 80 percent of their receipts providing their customers with the coverage for which they paid. If they could, we likely would never have seen the extraordinary efforts made by these companies to avoid paying benefits to their customers at the very moment they need it the most.
http://www.forbes.com/sites/rickungar/2011/12/02/the-bomb-buried-in-obamacare-explodes-today-halleluja
<...>
That would be the provision of the law, called the medical loss ratio, that requires health insurance companies to spend 80% of the consumers’ premium dollars they collect—85% for large group insurers—on actual medical care rather than overhead, marketing expenses and profit. Failure on the part of insurers to meet this requirement will result in the insurers having to send their customers a rebate check representing the amount in which they underspend on actual medical care.
This is the true ‘bomb’ contained in Obamacare and the one item that will have more impact on the future of how medical care is paid for in this country than anything we’ve seen in quite some time. Indeed, it is this aspect of the law that represents the true ‘death panel’ found in Obamacare—but not one that is going to lead to the death of American consumers. Rather, the medical loss ratio will, ultimately, lead to the death of large parts of the private, for-profit health insurance industry.
Why? Because there is absolutely no way for-profit health insurers are going to be able to learn how to get by and still make a profit while being forced to spend at least 80 percent of their receipts providing their customers with the coverage for which they paid. If they could, we likely would never have seen the extraordinary efforts made by these companies to avoid paying benefits to their customers at the very moment they need it the most.
http://www.forbes.com/sites/rickungar/2011/12/02/the-bomb-buried-in-obamacare-explodes-today-halleluja
Obama Administration Scores Victory for Sound Science and Women’s Access to Contraception
Washington, D.C. – Nancy Keenan, president of NARAL Pro-Choice America, commended Health and Human Services Secretary (HHS) Kathleen Sebelius for accepting an expert panel’s recommendation that family planning be considered preventive health care. Now, newly issued insurance plans must cover the full range of Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved contraception at no cost.
The federal health-care law requires newly issued health plans to cover—at no cost—certain preventive-health services that are specific to women. HHS appointed an Institute of Medicine (IOM) panel to recommend which services should be included. The panel of leading women’s health experts recommended fully covering family-planning care. Secretary Sebelius’ decision to adopt this recommendation will make no-cost contraception a benefit required by law.
http://www.prochoiceamerica.org/media/press-releases/2011/pr08012011_hhs-contraception.html
Washington, D.C. – Nancy Keenan, president of NARAL Pro-Choice America, commended Health and Human Services Secretary (HHS) Kathleen Sebelius for accepting an expert panel’s recommendation that family planning be considered preventive health care. Now, newly issued insurance plans must cover the full range of Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved contraception at no cost.
The federal health-care law requires newly issued health plans to cover—at no cost—certain preventive-health services that are specific to women. HHS appointed an Institute of Medicine (IOM) panel to recommend which services should be included. The panel of leading women’s health experts recommended fully covering family-planning care. Secretary Sebelius’ decision to adopt this recommendation will make no-cost contraception a benefit required by law.
http://www.prochoiceamerica.org/media/press-releases/2011/pr08012011_hhs-contraception.html
Low-income state workers begin to gain access to Children’s Health Insurance Program
At least six states have opened their Children’s Health Insurance Program to the kids of low-income state employees, an option that was prohibited until the passage of the 2010 health-care law.
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Now, as a result of the policy change, families of lower-income state workers who have struggled to pay for family coverage can qualify for the program. CHIP, which is jointly financed by the states and the federal government, provides coverage to the uninsured children of families who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance.
The federal government had closed that option to most states when CHIP was established in 1997, because of concerns that it might be an easy way for financially strapped states to shift the costs of some public-employee health benefits to the federal government. Federal employees were allowed to enroll their children.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/2011/11/04/gIQAeDvotM_story.html
At least six states have opened their Children’s Health Insurance Program to the kids of low-income state employees, an option that was prohibited until the passage of the 2010 health-care law.
<...>
Now, as a result of the policy change, families of lower-income state workers who have struggled to pay for family coverage can qualify for the program. CHIP, which is jointly financed by the states and the federal government, provides coverage to the uninsured children of families who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance.
The federal government had closed that option to most states when CHIP was established in 1997, because of concerns that it might be an easy way for financially strapped states to shift the costs of some public-employee health benefits to the federal government. Federal employees were allowed to enroll their children.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/2011/11/04/gIQAeDvotM_story.html
Established the National Alzheimer's Project
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The National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA) creates an important opportunity to build upon and leverage HHS programs and other federal efforts to help change the trajectory of ADRD. The law calls for a National Plan for ADRD with input from a public-private Advisory Council on Alzheimer's Research, Care and Services. The Advisory Council will make recommendations to HHS for priority actions to expand, coordinate, and condense programs in order to improve the health outcomes of people with ADRD and reduce the financial burden of these conditions on those with the diseases, their families, and society.
http://aspe.hhs.gov/daltcp/napa/|
<...>
The National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA) creates an important opportunity to build upon and leverage HHS programs and other federal efforts to help change the trajectory of ADRD. The law calls for a National Plan for ADRD with input from a public-private Advisory Council on Alzheimer's Research, Care and Services. The Advisory Council will make recommendations to HHS for priority actions to expand, coordinate, and condense programs in order to improve the health outcomes of people with ADRD and reduce the financial burden of these conditions on those with the diseases, their families, and society.
http://aspe.hhs.gov/daltcp/napa/|
Proclamation
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/11/01/presidential-proclamation-national-alzheimers-disease-awareness-month-20
OBAMA ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES $749 MILLION TO FUND HOUSING FOR VERY LOW-INCOME SENIORS AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
WASHINGTON – Thousands more very low-income senior citizens and persons with disabilities will have access to affordable supportive housing thanks to $749 million in housing assistance announced today by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These grants will help non-profit organizations produce accessible housing, offer rental assistance, and facilitate supportive services for the elderly and persons with disabilities.
<...>
Enacted early this year with strong bipartisan support, the Frank Melville Supportive Housing Investment Act and the Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Act provided needed enhancements and reforms to both programs. Nonprofit grant recipients will now receive federal assistance that is better connected to state and local health care investments, allowing greater numbers of vulnerable elderly and disabled individuals to access the housing they need even more quickly.
http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/press/press_releases_media_advisories/2011/HUDNo.11-266
WASHINGTON – Thousands more very low-income senior citizens and persons with disabilities will have access to affordable supportive housing thanks to $749 million in housing assistance announced today by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These grants will help non-profit organizations produce accessible housing, offer rental assistance, and facilitate supportive services for the elderly and persons with disabilities.
<...>
Enacted early this year with strong bipartisan support, the Frank Melville Supportive Housing Investment Act and the Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Act provided needed enhancements and reforms to both programs. Nonprofit grant recipients will now receive federal assistance that is better connected to state and local health care investments, allowing greater numbers of vulnerable elderly and disabled individuals to access the housing they need even more quickly.
http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/press/press_releases_media_advisories/2011/HUDNo.11-266
Frank Melville Supportive Housing Investment Act of 2010
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=s111-1481
Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Act of 2010
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=s111-118
FHA Providing Unemployed Homeowners Extra Time to Get Back on Their Feet
If you’re unemployed and having trouble making payments on your FHA-insured mortgage, more help is on the way! The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) already requires its lenders to go the extra mile in helping un- or underemployed borrowers who are at least three months behind in their mortgage. Now, FHA is providing additional breathing room for unemployed homeowners by requiring FHA-approved lenders to extend special forbearance from four to 12 months.
This means certain unemployed borrowers with FHA-insured mortgages may have up to a full year to find work and get back on their financial feet. These special forbearance agreements between lenders and borrowers make it possible to delay any foreclosure action to allow you a chance to catch up missed payments in an agreed-upon timeframe. At the end of the forbearance period, the lender will review your financial situation again to determine what option might fit your circumstances like a loan modification or repayment plan. The extended forbearance period begins August 1st with another 60 days for lenders to implement.
http://blog.hud.gov/2011/07/08/fha-providing-unemployed-homeowners-extra-time-feet/
If you’re unemployed and having trouble making payments on your FHA-insured mortgage, more help is on the way! The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) already requires its lenders to go the extra mile in helping un- or underemployed borrowers who are at least three months behind in their mortgage. Now, FHA is providing additional breathing room for unemployed homeowners by requiring FHA-approved lenders to extend special forbearance from four to 12 months.
This means certain unemployed borrowers with FHA-insured mortgages may have up to a full year to find work and get back on their financial feet. These special forbearance agreements between lenders and borrowers make it possible to delay any foreclosure action to allow you a chance to catch up missed payments in an agreed-upon timeframe. At the end of the forbearance period, the lender will review your financial situation again to determine what option might fit your circumstances like a loan modification or repayment plan. The extended forbearance period begins August 1st with another 60 days for lenders to implement.
http://blog.hud.gov/2011/07/08/fha-providing-unemployed-homeowners-extra-time-feet/
NLRB issues three decisions, two of which overturn Bush-era decisions
It looks like the National Labor Relations Board has decided to get in as many decisions as it can before December, when current member Craig Becker's term ends and the Board is down to two members, a level at which the Supreme Court has ruled it can't issue rulings. Republicans, of course, are vowing to block any nominees, so the Board is likely to stay at two members for the foreseeable future.
<...>
A third decision actually reaches back to the George H.W. Bush era, when the NLRB had created a "special test for bargaining unit determinations in nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and other non-acute health care facilities." In the Specialty Healthcare case decided Tuesday, a nursing home owner had applied this special test, arguing that the home's Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) could not unionize by themselves but had to be joined by the home's cooks, dietary aides, data entry clerk and other non-CNA support staff. The NLRB overturned that special standard, and "Employees at such facilities will now be subject to the same 'community-of-interest' standard that the Board has traditionally applied at other workplaces."
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2011/08/31/1012141/-NLRB-issues-three-decisions,-two-of-which-overturn-Bush-era-decisions
It looks like the National Labor Relations Board has decided to get in as many decisions as it can before December, when current member Craig Becker's term ends and the Board is down to two members, a level at which the Supreme Court has ruled it can't issue rulings. Republicans, of course, are vowing to block any nominees, so the Board is likely to stay at two members for the foreseeable future.
<...>
A third decision actually reaches back to the George H.W. Bush era, when the NLRB had created a "special test for bargaining unit determinations in nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and other non-acute health care facilities." In the Specialty Healthcare case decided Tuesday, a nursing home owner had applied this special test, arguing that the home's Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) could not unionize by themselves but had to be joined by the home's cooks, dietary aides, data entry clerk and other non-CNA support staff. The NLRB overturned that special standard, and "Employees at such facilities will now be subject to the same 'community-of-interest' standard that the Board has traditionally applied at other workplaces."
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2011/08/31/1012141/-NLRB-issues-three-decisions,-two-of-which-overturn-Bush-era-decisions
It’s a good thing Obama saved the auto industry
Remember a few years ago, when the American auto industry was on the verge of collapse? When Republicans said the Obama administration’s risky strategy would fail and Mitt Romney said we should “let Detroit go bankrupt” and we could “kiss the American automotive industry goodbye” if Obama’s policy moved forward?
We can all be very glad right now that Republicans were wrong. The auto industry is one of the economy’s few bright spots.
http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/political-animal/2011_08/its_a_good_thing_obama_saved_t031808.php
Remember a few years ago, when the American auto industry was on the verge of collapse? When Republicans said the Obama administration’s risky strategy would fail and Mitt Romney said we should “let Detroit go bankrupt” and we could “kiss the American automotive industry goodbye” if Obama’s policy moved forward?
We can all be very glad right now that Republicans were wrong. The auto industry is one of the economy’s few bright spots.
http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/political-animal/2011_08/its_a_good_thing_obama_saved_t031808.php
Obama signs 1st major patent law change since 1952
ALEXANDRIA, Virginia (AP) — President Barack Obama signed into law Friday a major overhaul of the U.S. patent system, a measure designed to ease the way for inventors to bring their products to market. "We can't afford to drag our feet any longer," the president said.
Passed in a rare display of congressional bipartisanship, the America Invents Act is the first significant change in patent law since 1952. It has been hailed as a milestone that would spur innovation and create jobs.
http://news.yahoo.com/obama-signs-1st-major-patent-law-change-since-153819335.html|
ALEXANDRIA, Virginia (AP) — President Barack Obama signed into law Friday a major overhaul of the U.S. patent system, a measure designed to ease the way for inventors to bring their products to market. "We can't afford to drag our feet any longer," the president said.
Passed in a rare display of congressional bipartisanship, the America Invents Act is the first significant change in patent law since 1952. It has been hailed as a milestone that would spur innovation and create jobs.
http://news.yahoo.com/obama-signs-1st-major-patent-law-change-since-153819335.html|
WTO Upholds Obama’s Tire Industry Relief Decision
The World Trade Organization’s (WTO’s) Appellate Body yesterday upheld President Obama’s decision based on U.S. trade law to provide relief for American tire industry workers against surging imports from China of passenger and light truck tires.
In September 2009, Obama became the first president to enforce U.S. trade law when he imposed tariffs to protect domestic workers against a surge in tire imports from China. The original complaint came from the United Steelworkers (USW), and Obama’s decision led to a rebound in the tire industry.
http://blog.aflcio.org/2011/09/06/wto-upholds-obamas-tire-industry-relief-decision/
The World Trade Organization’s (WTO’s) Appellate Body yesterday upheld President Obama’s decision based on U.S. trade law to provide relief for American tire industry workers against surging imports from China of passenger and light truck tires.
In September 2009, Obama became the first president to enforce U.S. trade law when he imposed tariffs to protect domestic workers against a surge in tire imports from China. The original complaint came from the United Steelworkers (USW), and Obama’s decision led to a rebound in the tire industry.
http://blog.aflcio.org/2011/09/06/wto-upholds-obamas-tire-industry-relief-decision/
Statement from President Obama on the Submission of the Korea, Colombia, and Panama Trade Agreements
“The series of trade agreements I am submitting to Congress today will make it easier for American companies to sell their products in South Korea, Colombia, and Panama and provide a major boost to our exports. These agreements will support tens of thousands of jobs across the country for workers making products stamped with three proud words: Made in America. We've worked hard to strengthen these agreements to get the best possible deal for American workers and businesses, and I call on Congress to pass them without delay, along with the bipartisan agreement on Trade Adjustment Assistance that will help workers whose jobs have been affected by global competition.”
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/10/03/statement-president-obama-submission-korea-colombia-and-panama-trade-agr
“The series of trade agreements I am submitting to Congress today will make it easier for American companies to sell their products in South Korea, Colombia, and Panama and provide a major boost to our exports. These agreements will support tens of thousands of jobs across the country for workers making products stamped with three proud words: Made in America. We've worked hard to strengthen these agreements to get the best possible deal for American workers and businesses, and I call on Congress to pass them without delay, along with the bipartisan agreement on Trade Adjustment Assistance that will help workers whose jobs have been affected by global competition.”
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/10/03/statement-president-obama-submission-korea-colombia-and-panama-trade-agr
Veterans Opportunity to Work to Hire Heroes Act of 2011
Back in September, I sent Congress a jobs bill. And in it, I proposed a tax credit for any business that hires a veteran who’s been unemployed for at least four weeks. I proposed an even bigger tax break if a business hires a veteran who’s been unemployed for at least six months. And if a business hires an unemployed veteran with a disability related to their service, I proposed doubling the tax break that we already have in place.
Today, because Democrats and Republicans came together, I’m proud to sign those proposals into law. And I urge every business owner out there who’s hiring to hire a veteran right away.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/11/21/president-obama-hire-veteran
Back in September, I sent Congress a jobs bill. And in it, I proposed a tax credit for any business that hires a veteran who’s been unemployed for at least four weeks. I proposed an even bigger tax break if a business hires a veteran who’s been unemployed for at least six months. And if a business hires an unemployed veteran with a disability related to their service, I proposed doubling the tax break that we already have in place.
Today, because Democrats and Republicans came together, I’m proud to sign those proposals into law. And I urge every business owner out there who’s hiring to hire a veteran right away.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/11/21/president-obama-hire-veteran
Don't ask, don't tell' fades away
More than 17 years after a tortured political compromise that left no one happy, “don’t ask, don’t tell” is done.
On Tuesday, President Bill Clinton’s 1993 directive that allowed gays and lesbians to serve in the military without discrimination as long as they stayed in the closet will be formally repealed. The measure had mandated that applicants weren’t to be asked about their sexuality, and it barred military brass from investigating a service member’s sexual orientation without credible evidence.
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0911/63801.html#ixzz1YP7L1ulU
More than 17 years after a tortured political compromise that left no one happy, “don’t ask, don’t tell” is done.
On Tuesday, President Bill Clinton’s 1993 directive that allowed gays and lesbians to serve in the military without discrimination as long as they stayed in the closet will be formally repealed. The measure had mandated that applicants weren’t to be asked about their sexuality, and it barred military brass from investigating a service member’s sexual orientation without credible evidence.
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0911/63801.html#ixzz1YP7L1ulU
President Obama's statement
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/09/20/statement-president-repeal-dont-ask-dont-tell
EPA vetoes mega mountaintop-to-moonscape project
In these times, all too often “The best lack all conviction, while the worst/Are full of passionate intensity” (hat tip: William Butler Yeats). And in these times, our government sometimes deserves praise for working just as it is supposed to.
That’s why the Environmental Protection Agency deserves a big thank you for vetoing the Spruce 1 mountaintop removal mine in Logan County— a ruinous Goliath of a strip mine, one of the largest ever permitted in West Virginia. (See NRDC senior attorney Jon Devine’s statement on the veto here.) This decision gives hope to people across Appalachia who are fighting to defend their homes, their water supplies, and their mountains against this most devastating form of strip mining.
http://switchboard.nrdc.org/blogs/mwaage/epa_vetos_mega_mountaintop-to-.html
In these times, all too often “The best lack all conviction, while the worst/Are full of passionate intensity” (hat tip: William Butler Yeats). And in these times, our government sometimes deserves praise for working just as it is supposed to.
That’s why the Environmental Protection Agency deserves a big thank you for vetoing the Spruce 1 mountaintop removal mine in Logan County— a ruinous Goliath of a strip mine, one of the largest ever permitted in West Virginia. (See NRDC senior attorney Jon Devine’s statement on the veto here.) This decision gives hope to people across Appalachia who are fighting to defend their homes, their water supplies, and their mountains against this most devastating form of strip mining.
http://switchboard.nrdc.org/blogs/mwaage/epa_vetos_mega_mountaintop-to-.html
War On Coal? EPA Regulations Boost Coal Employment To 15-Year High
The Environmental Protection Agency under the Obama administration has increased efforts to regulate the coal industry, using tougher environmental standards under the Clean Water Act to rein in destructive coal practices like mountaintop removal. That has sparked outrage from Republicans across the country and Democrats in coal states like Kentucky and West Virginia, where industry leaders and pro-coal politicians have decried Obama and the EPA’s supposed “war on coal.”
But even as America deals with high unemployment and a sluggish economic recovery, coal employment this year rose to its highest level since 1996, according to data from the Mine Safety and Health Administration. In 2011, there were more than 90,000 coal jobs, and the 59,059 Appalachian coal jobs are the most since 1997. According to the same data, the spike in employment correlates to the EPA’s crackdown on destructive mountaintop removal policies, the Charleston Gazette reports:
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As Wasson said, the industry and the politicians it contributes to most have slammed the EPA’s regulatory policies as “job killing” and anti-coal. In reality, however, mechanized practices like mountaintop removal can reduce employment while boosting production and profits. Underground mining, a less destructive form of coal extraction, actually requires more workers than mountaintop removal or strip mining.
http://thinkprogress.org/green/2011/11/23/375388/war-on-coal-epa-regulations-boost-coal-employment-to-15-year-high/
The Environmental Protection Agency under the Obama administration has increased efforts to regulate the coal industry, using tougher environmental standards under the Clean Water Act to rein in destructive coal practices like mountaintop removal. That has sparked outrage from Republicans across the country and Democrats in coal states like Kentucky and West Virginia, where industry leaders and pro-coal politicians have decried Obama and the EPA’s supposed “war on coal.”
But even as America deals with high unemployment and a sluggish economic recovery, coal employment this year rose to its highest level since 1996, according to data from the Mine Safety and Health Administration. In 2011, there were more than 90,000 coal jobs, and the 59,059 Appalachian coal jobs are the most since 1997. According to the same data, the spike in employment correlates to the EPA’s crackdown on destructive mountaintop removal policies, the Charleston Gazette reports:
<...>
As Wasson said, the industry and the politicians it contributes to most have slammed the EPA’s regulatory policies as “job killing” and anti-coal. In reality, however, mechanized practices like mountaintop removal can reduce employment while boosting production and profits. Underground mining, a less destructive form of coal extraction, actually requires more workers than mountaintop removal or strip mining.
http://thinkprogress.org/green/2011/11/23/375388/war-on-coal-epa-regulations-boost-coal-employment-to-15-year-high/
Mercury and Air Toxics Standards
In a court filing on October 21, 2011, EPA made clear its opposition to a motion from the Utility Air Regulatory Group seeking a one-year extension of the promulgation date of the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards. EPA proposed these standards on March 16, 2011.
EPA has actively sought public feedback on the proposed standards. This included holding three public hearings around the country and extending the public comment period by thirty days, which provided the public with 140 days from signature date to review the proposals. The Agency has received more than 900,000 comments, including approximately 20,000 unique comments.
Given the need to review all of these comments, EPA and the litigants have agreed to a 30-day extension to finalize these rules. As a result, the final standards will be issued on December 16, 2011.
http://www.epa.gov/airquality/powerplanttoxics/
In a court filing on October 21, 2011, EPA made clear its opposition to a motion from the Utility Air Regulatory Group seeking a one-year extension of the promulgation date of the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards. EPA proposed these standards on March 16, 2011.
EPA has actively sought public feedback on the proposed standards. This included holding three public hearings around the country and extending the public comment period by thirty days, which provided the public with 140 days from signature date to review the proposals. The Agency has received more than 900,000 comments, including approximately 20,000 unique comments.
Given the need to review all of these comments, EPA and the litigants have agreed to a 30-day extension to finalize these rules. As a result, the final standards will be issued on December 16, 2011.
http://www.epa.gov/airquality/powerplanttoxics/
First Ever Fuel Economy Standards for Commercial Vehicles[/b ]
The complementary EPA and NHTSA standards that make up the Heavy-Duty National Program apply to combination tractors (semi trucks), heavy-duty pickup trucks and vans, and vocational vehicles (including buses and refuse or utility trucks). Together, these standards will cut greenhouse gas emissions and domestic oil use significantly. This program responds to President Obama’s 2010 request to jointly establish greenhouse gas emissions and fuel efficiency standards for the medium- and heavy-duty highway vehicle sector.
http://www.epa.gov/otaq/climate/regulations.htm#1-2|
The complementary EPA and NHTSA standards that make up the Heavy-Duty National Program apply to combination tractors (semi trucks), heavy-duty pickup trucks and vans, and vocational vehicles (including buses and refuse or utility trucks). Together, these standards will cut greenhouse gas emissions and domestic oil use significantly. This program responds to President Obama’s 2010 request to jointly establish greenhouse gas emissions and fuel efficiency standards for the medium- and heavy-duty highway vehicle sector.
http://www.epa.gov/otaq/climate/regulations.htm#1-2|
Final rule (PDF)
http:// www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/rulemaking/pdf/cafe/2011-20740.pdf
EPA Takes First Steps Towards Limits on Power Plant Carbon Pollution to Protect Our Health and Safety
Today the Obama Administration took the first steps forward to set limits on dangerous carbon pollution from power plants. The government announced today that EPA will propose carbon pollution standards for new power plants, after a 90-day inter-agency review that began this week.
Strong carbon pollution safeguards—together with standards that are needed for existing plants too—will make our air safer to breathe, curb climate change, and help usher in a cleaner, more modern fleet of power plants.
http://switchboard.nrdc.org/blogs/fbeinecke/epa_takes_first_steps_towards.html
Today the Obama Administration took the first steps forward to set limits on dangerous carbon pollution from power plants. The government announced today that EPA will propose carbon pollution standards for new power plants, after a 90-day inter-agency review that began this week.
Strong carbon pollution safeguards—together with standards that are needed for existing plants too—will make our air safer to breathe, curb climate change, and help usher in a cleaner, more modern fleet of power plants.
http://switchboard.nrdc.org/blogs/fbeinecke/epa_takes_first_steps_towards.html
NHTSA Fact Sheet ( PDF)
http://www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/rulemaking/pdf/cafe/2017-25_CAFE_NPRM_Factsheet.pdf
Cross-State Air Pollution Rule
On July 6, 2011, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a rule that protects the health of millions of Americans by helping states reduce air pollution and attain clean air standards. This rule, known as the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR), requires 27 states to significantly improve air quality by reducing power plant emissions that contribute to ozone and/or fine particle pollution in other states.
http://www.epa.gov/crossstaterule/
On July 6, 2011, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a rule that protects the health of millions of Americans by helping states reduce air pollution and attain clean air standards. This rule, known as the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR), requires 27 states to significantly improve air quality by reducing power plant emissions that contribute to ozone and/or fine particle pollution in other states.
http://www.epa.gov/crossstaterule/
PDF statement of policy
http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/legislative/sap/112/sapsjr27s_20111108.pdf
WH: Partnership for Sustainable Communities
http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov
Priority Areas of Focus for 2011
(1) HUD Announces FY11 Sustainable Communities Awards
On November 21, 2011, the HUD Office of Sustainable Housing and Communities will invest almost $96 million that will help 27 communities and 29 regions establish their own blueprints for a more livable, equitable, and economically competitive future. These grants join the 87 HUD Sustainable Communities grants announced last year.
(2) Supporting Sustainable Rural Communities
On Nov. 17, the Partnership for Sustainable Communities and USDA released Supporting Sustainable Rural Communities (PDF 52p 3MB) , a report that describes how federal programs are helping rural America enhance its economic vitality and protect the environment.
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(4) Federal Barriers to Local Housing and Transportation Coordination
HUD and DOT recently released a report that summarizes the history of barriers to local coordination of housing and transportation resulting from HUD and DOT statutes and regulations, efforts to date to identify barriers within each agency’s programs, and a description of efforts underway to address these barriers.
http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov/aboutUs.html#4
(1) HUD Announces FY11 Sustainable Communities Awards
On November 21, 2011, the HUD Office of Sustainable Housing and Communities will invest almost $96 million that will help 27 communities and 29 regions establish their own blueprints for a more livable, equitable, and economically competitive future. These grants join the 87 HUD Sustainable Communities grants announced last year.
(2) Supporting Sustainable Rural Communities
On Nov. 17, the Partnership for Sustainable Communities and USDA released Supporting Sustainable Rural Communities (PDF 52p 3MB) , a report that describes how federal programs are helping rural America enhance its economic vitality and protect the environment.
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(4) Federal Barriers to Local Housing and Transportation Coordination
HUD and DOT recently released a report that summarizes the history of barriers to local coordination of housing and transportation resulting from HUD and DOT statutes and regulations, efforts to date to identify barriers within each agency’s programs, and a description of efforts underway to address these barriers.
http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov/aboutUs.html#4
Court Approves Historic Agreement to Speed Endangered Species Act Protection for 757 Imperiled Species
TUCSON, Ariz.— A federal judge today approved a landmark legal agreement between the Center for Biological Diversity and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service requiring the agency to make initial or final decisions on whether to add hundreds of imperiled plants and animals to the federal endangered species list by 2018. The court also approved an agreement with another conservation group that it had previously blocked based on legal opposition from the Center.
“The court’s approval today will allow this historic agreement to move forward, speeding protection for as many as 757 of America’s most imperiled species,” said Noah Greenwald, endangered species director at the Center. “The historic agreement gives species like the Pacific walrus, American wolverine and California golden trout a shot at survival.”
http://www.biologicaldiversity.org/news/press_releases/2011/757-species-agreement-09-09-2011.html
TUCSON, Ariz.— A federal judge today approved a landmark legal agreement between the Center for Biological Diversity and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service requiring the agency to make initial or final decisions on whether to add hundreds of imperiled plants and animals to the federal endangered species list by 2018. The court also approved an agreement with another conservation group that it had previously blocked based on legal opposition from the Center.
“The court’s approval today will allow this historic agreement to move forward, speeding protection for as many as 757 of America’s most imperiled species,” said Noah Greenwald, endangered species director at the Center. “The historic agreement gives species like the Pacific walrus, American wolverine and California golden trout a shot at survival.”
http://www.biologicaldiversity.org/news/press_releases/2011/757-species-agreement-09-09-2011.html
Pictures: Six New Natural Landmarks Named
Lake Bill Chinook in central Oregon is now part of The Island, one of six new national natural landmarks designated last week by U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar.
"One of the major goals of President Obama's America's Great Outdoors initiative is to develop a conservation ethic for the 21st century," Salazar said in a statement.
"By designating these remarkable sites in Arizona, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington as national natural landmarks, we help establish and pass down to future generations those awe-inspiring places that make America truly beautiful."
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2011/06/pictures/110628-new-national-natural-landmarks/
Lake Bill Chinook in central Oregon is now part of The Island, one of six new national natural landmarks designated last week by U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar.
"One of the major goals of President Obama's America's Great Outdoors initiative is to develop a conservation ethic for the 21st century," Salazar said in a statement.
"By designating these remarkable sites in Arizona, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington as national natural landmarks, we help establish and pass down to future generations those awe-inspiring places that make America truly beautiful."
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2011/06/pictures/110628-new-national-natural-landmarks/
New huge national wildlife refuge and conservation area in the Everglades north of Lake Okeechobee
KISSIMMEE -- The U.S. Interior Department unveiled Wednesday details of a new huge national wildlife refuge and conservation area in the Everglades north of Lake Okeechobee, aimed at protecting wildlife, wild lands, and fresh water that sustains South Florida.
Most of the proposed Everglades Headwaters National Wildlife Refuge and Conservation Area would consist of up to 100,000 acres of pasture land to be protected through conservation easements purchased from willing landowners. Ranchers would retain ownership of their land but agree not to allow development there. Another 50,000 acres would be targeted for outright purchase by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to create the refuge itself where public hunting, fishing, and hiking would be permitted. The area extends from southwest Osceola County south to the Lake Okeechobee, including swaths of Polk, Okeechobee and Highlands counties.
http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/09/07/2395111/new-federal-plan-a-boon-for-everglades.html#ixzz1XJW2YT45
KISSIMMEE -- The U.S. Interior Department unveiled Wednesday details of a new huge national wildlife refuge and conservation area in the Everglades north of Lake Okeechobee, aimed at protecting wildlife, wild lands, and fresh water that sustains South Florida.
Most of the proposed Everglades Headwaters National Wildlife Refuge and Conservation Area would consist of up to 100,000 acres of pasture land to be protected through conservation easements purchased from willing landowners. Ranchers would retain ownership of their land but agree not to allow development there. Another 50,000 acres would be targeted for outright purchase by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to create the refuge itself where public hunting, fishing, and hiking would be permitted. The area extends from southwest Osceola County south to the Lake Okeechobee, including swaths of Polk, Okeechobee and Highlands counties.
http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/09/07/2395111/new-federal-plan-a-boon-for-everglades.html#ixzz1XJW2YT45
President Obama to Sign Proclamation Designating Fort Monroe a National Monument
President Obama today will sign a Proclamation to designate Fort Monroe a National Monument under the Antiquities Act. Until recently, Fort Monroe was the third-oldest Army post in continuous active service, and is integral to the history of slavery, the Civil War, and the U.S. military. Today’s announcement is part of a series of executive actions to put Americans back to work and strengthen the economy.
“Fort Monroe has played a part in some of the darkest and some of the most heroic moments in American history. But today isn’t just about preserving a national landmark- it’s about helping to create jobs and grow the local economy. Steps like these won’t replace the bold action we need from Congress to get our economy moving and strengthen middle-class families, but they will make a difference,” President Obama said.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/11/01/president-obama-sign-proclamation-designating-fort-monroe-national-monum
President Obama today will sign a Proclamation to designate Fort Monroe a National Monument under the Antiquities Act. Until recently, Fort Monroe was the third-oldest Army post in continuous active service, and is integral to the history of slavery, the Civil War, and the U.S. military. Today’s announcement is part of a series of executive actions to put Americans back to work and strengthen the economy.
“Fort Monroe has played a part in some of the darkest and some of the most heroic moments in American history. But today isn’t just about preserving a national landmark- it’s about helping to create jobs and grow the local economy. Steps like these won’t replace the bold action we need from Congress to get our economy moving and strengthen middle-class families, but they will make a difference,” President Obama said.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/11/01/president-obama-sign-proclamation-designating-fort-monroe-national-monum
Pew Applauds Obama Administration's Final Plan To Protect Grand Canyon From Mining
Jane Danowitz, U.S. public lands director for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in reaction to a final plan from U.S. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar to bar new mining claims on nearly 1 million acres of public land surrounding Grand Canyon National Park.
“We commend the Obama administration for honoring its commitment to protect the Grand Canyon from new uranium mining around its borders. For more than a century, this national treasure has endured because a series of American presidents have had the foresight and willingness to safeguard it from mining and other development interests.
“Today’s action reflects overwhelming public support—from prominent scientists, elected leaders, conservationists, tourism officials, and downstream water users—to give the Grand Canyon the lasting protection it deserves.
http://www.pewenvironment.org/news-room/press-releases/pew-applauds-obama-administrations-final-plan-to-protect-grand-canyon-from-mining-85899365657
Jane Danowitz, U.S. public lands director for the Pew Environment Group, issued the following statement today in reaction to a final plan from U.S. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar to bar new mining claims on nearly 1 million acres of public land surrounding Grand Canyon National Park.
“We commend the Obama administration for honoring its commitment to protect the Grand Canyon from new uranium mining around its borders. For more than a century, this national treasure has endured because a series of American presidents have had the foresight and willingness to safeguard it from mining and other development interests.
“Today’s action reflects overwhelming public support—from prominent scientists, elected leaders, conservationists, tourism officials, and downstream water users—to give the Grand Canyon the lasting protection it deserves.
http://www.pewenvironment.org/news-room/press-releases/pew-applauds-obama-administrations-final-plan-to-protect-grand-canyon-from-mining-85899365657
Conservation Wins A Big One At The Grand Canyon
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2011/06/29/989925/-Conservation-Wins-A-Big-One-At-The-Grand-Canyon?via=siderecent
ACLU: Justice Is Served (Fair Sentencing Act made retroactive) [/b ]
June 2011 marks the 40th anniversary of President Richard Nixon's declaration of a "war on drugs" — a war that has cost roughly a trillion dollars, has produced little to no effect on the supply of or demand for drugs in the United States, and has contributed to making America the world's largest incarcerator. Throughout the month, check back daily for posts about the drug war, its victims and what needs to be done to restore fairness and create effective policy.
Today is an exciting day for the ACLU and criminal justice advocates around the country. Following much thought and careful deliberation, the United States Sentencing Commission took another step toward creating fairness in federal sentencing by retroactively applying the new Fair Sentencing Act (FSA) guidelines to individuals sentenced before the law was enacted. This decision will help ensure that over 12,000 people — 85 percent of whom are African-Americans — will have the opportunity to have their sentences for crack cocaine offenses reviewed by a federal judge and possibly reduced.
http://www.aclu.org/blog/criminal-law-reform/justice-served|
June 2011 marks the 40th anniversary of President Richard Nixon's declaration of a "war on drugs" — a war that has cost roughly a trillion dollars, has produced little to no effect on the supply of or demand for drugs in the United States, and has contributed to making America the world's largest incarcerator. Throughout the month, check back daily for posts about the drug war, its victims and what needs to be done to restore fairness and create effective policy.
Today is an exciting day for the ACLU and criminal justice advocates around the country. Following much thought and careful deliberation, the United States Sentencing Commission took another step toward creating fairness in federal sentencing by retroactively applying the new Fair Sentencing Act (FSA) guidelines to individuals sentenced before the law was enacted. This decision will help ensure that over 12,000 people — 85 percent of whom are African-Americans — will have the opportunity to have their sentences for crack cocaine offenses reviewed by a federal judge and possibly reduced.
http://www.aclu.org/blog/criminal-law-reform/justice-served|
A Win for Free Speech: ACLU Recommendations Adopted by DHS!
The ACLU just scored a big win for freedom of speech from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). More than 2 years ago we filed a complaint with the DHS Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (OCRCL) concerning an effort to collect and distribute information about lawful demonstrations. Earlier this month, we received a letter from OCRCL letting us know that they have resolved our complaint, and are adopting our recommendations!
In 2006, DHS Federal Protective Service (FPS) distributed a Protective Intelligence Bulletin to local law enforcement detailing information about dozens of peaceful activist groups. The bulletin was entitled "Civil Activists and Extremists Action Calendar," and provided information on over 70 demonstrations, almost entirely peace, environmental and social justice rallies and marches where no violence or other criminal activity was expected.
http://www.aclu.org/blog/free-speech-national-security/win-free-speech-aclu-recommendations-adopted-dhs
The ACLU just scored a big win for freedom of speech from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). More than 2 years ago we filed a complaint with the DHS Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (OCRCL) concerning an effort to collect and distribute information about lawful demonstrations. Earlier this month, we received a letter from OCRCL letting us know that they have resolved our complaint, and are adopting our recommendations!
In 2006, DHS Federal Protective Service (FPS) distributed a Protective Intelligence Bulletin to local law enforcement detailing information about dozens of peaceful activist groups. The bulletin was entitled "Civil Activists and Extremists Action Calendar," and provided information on over 70 demonstrations, almost entirely peace, environmental and social justice rallies and marches where no violence or other criminal activity was expected.
http://www.aclu.org/blog/free-speech-national-security/win-free-speech-aclu-recommendations-adopted-dhs
DOJ comes out swinging against DOMA
The Department of Justice on July 1 recommended a federal appeals court in California dismiss a motion promoted by the House of Representatives to dismiss a challenge to the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA).
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Williams Institute Legal Director Jenny Pizer, a former Lambda attorney, noted that, “while this step is fully consistent with the position taken back in February, it was not at all assumed that the Administration would participate actively in the pending DOMA cases.”
Attorney General Eric Holder, on February 23, sent a letter to House Speaker John Boehner, alerting him that the administration considers Section 3 of DOMA to be unconstitutional. Section 3 states that the federal government will not, for any federal purposes, recognize any same-sex marriage. Holder’s letter said the administration would not defend it beyond the First Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. (The First Circuit, noted Holder, has said that laws treating people differently on the basis of sexual orientation should be examined using the lowest level of judicial scrutiny—rational basis—under which almost any reason can pass muster.)
Holder’s letter said the administration believes laws disfavoring persons based on sexual orientation should have to pass the most stringent judicial review—heightened scrutiny. And it said the administration would argue so in two cases challenging DOMA in the 2nd Circuit.
http://www.keennewsservice.com/2011/07/04/doj-comes-out-swinging-against-doma/
The Department of Justice on July 1 recommended a federal appeals court in California dismiss a motion promoted by the House of Representatives to dismiss a challenge to the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA).
<...>
Williams Institute Legal Director Jenny Pizer, a former Lambda attorney, noted that, “while this step is fully consistent with the position taken back in February, it was not at all assumed that the Administration would participate actively in the pending DOMA cases.”
Attorney General Eric Holder, on February 23, sent a letter to House Speaker John Boehner, alerting him that the administration considers Section 3 of DOMA to be unconstitutional. Section 3 states that the federal government will not, for any federal purposes, recognize any same-sex marriage. Holder’s letter said the administration would not defend it beyond the First Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. (The First Circuit, noted Holder, has said that laws treating people differently on the basis of sexual orientation should be examined using the lowest level of judicial scrutiny—rational basis—under which almost any reason can pass muster.)
Holder’s letter said the administration believes laws disfavoring persons based on sexual orientation should have to pass the most stringent judicial review—heightened scrutiny. And it said the administration would argue so in two cases challenging DOMA in the 2nd Circuit.
http://www.keennewsservice.com/2011/07/04/doj-comes-out-swinging-against-doma/
Obama administration sides with Edie Windsor in lawsuit against DOMA
Well, this is progress. For two years, any time we saw a DOMA-related legal document submitted by Assistant Attorney General Tony West, we'd cringe. Not anymore.
The Department of Justice is now on record in support of Edie Windsor's motion for summary judgment and in opposition to John Boehner's motion to dismiss her case. I've embedded the document here.
http://gay.americablog.com/2011/08/obama-administration-sides-with-edie.html
Well, this is progress. For two years, any time we saw a DOMA-related legal document submitted by Assistant Attorney General Tony West, we'd cringe. Not anymore.
The Department of Justice is now on record in support of Edie Windsor's motion for summary judgment and in opposition to John Boehner's motion to dismiss her case. I've embedded the document here.
http://gay.americablog.com/2011/08/obama-administration-sides-with-edie.html
President Obama ends a weapons system (Video)
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26315908/vp/33525272#33525272
Destroying Al Qaeda
The Al Qaeda network over the past three years suffered its greatest losses since the United States and its allies evicted the terrorist organization from Afghanistan in 2001. Consider the achievements:
The Al Qaeda network over the past three years suffered its greatest losses since the United States and its allies evicted the terrorist organization from Afghanistan in 2001. Consider the achievements:
- President Barack Obama ordered a daring and risky Navy SEAL raid that killed Osama bin Laden in May 2011, and dozens of other senior Al Qaeda leaders have met their demise since President Obama took office.
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Rendition Victims Seek Justice Before International Tribunal
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Four victims of “extraordinary rendition” — a Bush administration CIA-run program of abduction, enforced disappearance, and torture — are demanding justice in a case filed yesterday against the United States with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.
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Although the Obama Administration has ended the practice of “extraordinary rendition” and shut down secret prisons, the U.S. government has waged a legal battle to keep survivors from having their day in U.S. court. As in the earlier cases of Maher Arar and Khaled El-Masri, the United States used claims of national security and the “state secrets” privilege to torpedo the litigation immediately after it had begun. Claiming that U.S. national security interests would be undermined if the government were forced to discuss the issues of these cases in court (despite the whole world being aware of much of the information related to their rendition and torture), the government has successfully blocked any U.S. court from ruling on the legality of the Bush administration’s torture program.
http://www.aclu.org/blog/human-rights-national-security/rendition-victims-seek-justice-international-tribunal
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Four victims of “extraordinary rendition” — a Bush administration CIA-run program of abduction, enforced disappearance, and torture — are demanding justice in a case filed yesterday against the United States with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.
<...>
Although the Obama Administration has ended the practice of “extraordinary rendition” and shut down secret prisons, the U.S. government has waged a legal battle to keep survivors from having their day in U.S. court. As in the earlier cases of Maher Arar and Khaled El-Masri, the United States used claims of national security and the “state secrets” privilege to torpedo the litigation immediately after it had begun. Claiming that U.S. national security interests would be undermined if the government were forced to discuss the issues of these cases in court (despite the whole world being aware of much of the information related to their rendition and torture), the government has successfully blocked any U.S. court from ruling on the legality of the Bush administration’s torture program.
http://www.aclu.org/blog/human-rights-national-security/rendition-victims-seek-justice-international-tribunal
Tribes pleased with Obama efforts, asking for more
WASHINGTON (AP) — There's little doubt President Barack Obama has won high esteem among Native Americans by breaking through a logjam of inaction on issues that matter to them.
The Obama administration this week proposed sweeping changes to federal tribal-land leasing rules that had not been touched in 50 years. Obama nominated a Native American to the federal bench, signed a law renewing the Indian Health Care Act and settled a tribal royalties lawsuit that had dragged on through three administrations.
"Obama has done better for tribes than the others, except for the Nixon administration," said Ben Nighthorse Campbell, a former Republican senator from Colorado. President Richard Nixon advocated tribal self-determination and opposed the termination of American Indian tribes that had been occurring since the mid-1940s.
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American Indians have been both "well-served" and "hurt" by other administrations, said Bill John Baker, principal chief of the largest Indian tribe, the Cherokee Nation in Oklahoma. Obama has gone beyond lip service, Baker said, and "backed up his words with actions that have made a positive impact on the lives of Native people."
http://news.yahoo.com/tribes-pleased-obama-efforts-asking-more-162418068.html
WASHINGTON (AP) — There's little doubt President Barack Obama has won high esteem among Native Americans by breaking through a logjam of inaction on issues that matter to them.
The Obama administration this week proposed sweeping changes to federal tribal-land leasing rules that had not been touched in 50 years. Obama nominated a Native American to the federal bench, signed a law renewing the Indian Health Care Act and settled a tribal royalties lawsuit that had dragged on through three administrations.
"Obama has done better for tribes than the others, except for the Nixon administration," said Ben Nighthorse Campbell, a former Republican senator from Colorado. President Richard Nixon advocated tribal self-determination and opposed the termination of American Indian tribes that had been occurring since the mid-1940s.
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American Indians have been both "well-served" and "hurt" by other administrations, said Bill John Baker, principal chief of the largest Indian tribe, the Cherokee Nation in Oklahoma. Obama has gone beyond lip service, Baker said, and "backed up his words with actions that have made a positive impact on the lives of Native people."
http://news.yahoo.com/tribes-pleased-obama-efforts-asking-more-162418068.html
White House announces job-generating energy-efficiency plan that needs no okay from Congress
It would have been delightful to have heard more of this "We Can't Wait for Congress" jobs campaign from President Obama about two years ago. But better late than never. The latest iteration is Friday's announcement of a $4 billion initiative to upgrade energy efficiency in public and private buildings, saving an estimated $40 billion annually and generating tens of thousands of jobs. And it won't cost taxpayers a dime. Happily, the plan can be accomplished without seeking impossible-to-get approval from that retrograde cabal of Congress which seems to believe any energy not extracted from hydrocarbons is Satan-spawned.
The concept is simple enough, one that was proposed as far back as the Carter administration: If you don't consume a unit of energy in the first place, you don't have to produce that energy. If you don't consume it, you don't have to pay for it. If you don't have to pay for it, you can spend the money on something else. The cheapest energy of all is energy you don't have to generate in the first place. And if the source of that unconsumed, unpurchased energy is, say, coal, you get the added benefit of not adding more CO2 to our already overburdened atmosphere. Win-win-win. It's so smart that backing has even come from the right-wing Chamber of Commerce, which has opposed almost every environmental initiative since Rachel Carson published her first book half a century ago.
The program announced today is part of the Better Buildings Initiative rolled out last February. BBI's goal is to leverage federal and private money to reduce energy consumption in commercial buildings by 20 percent by 2020. Several BBI projects are already under way. Obama added to those today by pledging to make $2 billion available for upgrades to federal buildings. Through the efforts of former President Bill Clinton, CEOs, mayors, university presidents and labor leaders also pledged to generate 2 billion additional dollars in private capital to retrofit "1.6 billion square feet of office, industrial, municipal, hospital, university, community college and school buildings."
To achieve the business-friendly, taxpayer-friendly, environment-friendly outcome of the program, upfront money has to be invested. That translates into jobs. So, actually, it's a win-win-win-win.
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2011/12/02/1041791/-White-House-announces-job-generating-energy-efficiency-plan-that-needs-no-okay-from-Congress
It would have been delightful to have heard more of this "We Can't Wait for Congress" jobs campaign from President Obama about two years ago. But better late than never. The latest iteration is Friday's announcement of a $4 billion initiative to upgrade energy efficiency in public and private buildings, saving an estimated $40 billion annually and generating tens of thousands of jobs. And it won't cost taxpayers a dime. Happily, the plan can be accomplished without seeking impossible-to-get approval from that retrograde cabal of Congress which seems to believe any energy not extracted from hydrocarbons is Satan-spawned.
The concept is simple enough, one that was proposed as far back as the Carter administration: If you don't consume a unit of energy in the first place, you don't have to produce that energy. If you don't consume it, you don't have to pay for it. If you don't have to pay for it, you can spend the money on something else. The cheapest energy of all is energy you don't have to generate in the first place. And if the source of that unconsumed, unpurchased energy is, say, coal, you get the added benefit of not adding more CO2 to our already overburdened atmosphere. Win-win-win. It's so smart that backing has even come from the right-wing Chamber of Commerce, which has opposed almost every environmental initiative since Rachel Carson published her first book half a century ago.
The program announced today is part of the Better Buildings Initiative rolled out last February. BBI's goal is to leverage federal and private money to reduce energy consumption in commercial buildings by 20 percent by 2020. Several BBI projects are already under way. Obama added to those today by pledging to make $2 billion available for upgrades to federal buildings. Through the efforts of former President Bill Clinton, CEOs, mayors, university presidents and labor leaders also pledged to generate 2 billion additional dollars in private capital to retrofit "1.6 billion square feet of office, industrial, municipal, hospital, university, community college and school buildings."
To achieve the business-friendly, taxpayer-friendly, environment-friendly outcome of the program, upfront money has to be invested. That translates into jobs. So, actually, it's a win-win-win-win.
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2011/12/02/1041791/-White-House-announces-job-generating-energy-efficiency-plan-that-needs-no-okay-from-Congress
Labor board approves controversial union election rule in 2-1 vote
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) voted Wednesday to move forward with portions of a controversial union election rule after the board’s lone Republican member showed up to register his opposition.
The two Democratic members of the labor board, Chairman Mark Pearce and Craig Becker, voted to advance the proposal, while Brian Hayes, a Republican, voted no.
The wildcard of Wednesday’s vote was Hayes, who has threatened to resign over the union election rule. Speculation swirled this week that Hayes might torpedo Wednesday’s action by making good on his threat to quit, or by simply refusing to participate.
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The NLRB proposal has attracted widespread attention in Washington and in the business world. Labor unions say it would help reduce delays in union elections, but business groups argue it gives employers little time to talk to their employees about unionization before a vote takes place.
http://thehill.com/business-a-lobbying/196323-labor-board-moves-forward-with-controversial-union-election-rule
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) voted Wednesday to move forward with portions of a controversial union election rule after the board’s lone Republican member showed up to register his opposition.
The two Democratic members of the labor board, Chairman Mark Pearce and Craig Becker, voted to advance the proposal, while Brian Hayes, a Republican, voted no.
The wildcard of Wednesday’s vote was Hayes, who has threatened to resign over the union election rule. Speculation swirled this week that Hayes might torpedo Wednesday’s action by making good on his threat to quit, or by simply refusing to participate.
<...>
The NLRB proposal has attracted widespread attention in Washington and in the business world. Labor unions say it would help reduce delays in union elections, but business groups argue it gives employers little time to talk to their employees about unionization before a vote takes place.
http://thehill.com/business-a-lobbying/196323-labor-board-moves-forward-with-controversial-union-election-rule
21st consecutive month of private sector job growth
Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today after the Department of Labor reported that the economy gained 120,000 jobs in November and the unemployment rate fell to 8.6 percent – the lowest rate since 2009. With private businesses adding 140,000 new employees, this marks the 21st consecutive month of private sector job growth:
http://www.democraticleader.gov/news/press?id=2408
Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today after the Department of Labor reported that the economy gained 120,000 jobs in November and the unemployment rate fell to 8.6 percent – the lowest rate since 2009. With private businesses adding 140,000 new employees, this marks the 21st consecutive month of private sector job growth:
http://www.democraticleader.gov/news/press?id=2408
The Dodd-Frank news you don’t hear: It’s moving forward
A lot of coverage of the Dodd-Frank financial reform law focuses on what isn’t happening: How the White House can’t get a head for its Consumer Financial Protection Bureau through Congress in the face of Republican opposition, how the law could become more vulnerable with the retirement of one of its architects, Massachusetts Rep. Barney Frank. Just this morning, as Suzy reports, former FDIC chair Shelia Bair called for part of the law to be scrapped altogether.
But, quietly, parts of the law are indeed moving forward, albeit with few headlines and little fanfare. This very morning, a new Dodd-Frank office got underway with work to reform one of the country’s most complex regulatory systems: insurance regulation.
The Federal Insurance Office was created by Dodd-Frank to bring a more national voice to how we oversee insurance. Until now, a federal agency to focus on insurance regulation just didn’t exist.
“Despite the sector’s size and important,” said deputy Treasury Secretary Neal Wolin, “the federal government had no central repository for comprehensive insurance expertise.”
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/ezra-klein/post/the-dodd-frank-news-you-dont-hear-its-moving-forward/2011/12/09/gIQABo7IiO_blog.html
A lot of coverage of the Dodd-Frank financial reform law focuses on what isn’t happening: How the White House can’t get a head for its Consumer Financial Protection Bureau through Congress in the face of Republican opposition, how the law could become more vulnerable with the retirement of one of its architects, Massachusetts Rep. Barney Frank. Just this morning, as Suzy reports, former FDIC chair Shelia Bair called for part of the law to be scrapped altogether.
But, quietly, parts of the law are indeed moving forward, albeit with few headlines and little fanfare. This very morning, a new Dodd-Frank office got underway with work to reform one of the country’s most complex regulatory systems: insurance regulation.
The Federal Insurance Office was created by Dodd-Frank to bring a more national voice to how we oversee insurance. Until now, a federal agency to focus on insurance regulation just didn’t exist.
“Despite the sector’s size and important,” said deputy Treasury Secretary Neal Wolin, “the federal government had no central repository for comprehensive insurance expertise.”
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/ezra-klein/post/the-dodd-frank-news-you-dont-hear-its-moving-forward/2011/12/09/gIQABo7IiO_blog.html
Obama Issues Memorandum Directing Government Action on International LGBT Issues
President Obama today issued a memorandum "directing all agencies engaged abroad to ensure that U.S. diplomacy and foreign assistance promote and protect the human rights of LGBT persons."
Among the steps required by the memorandum are efforts to fight the criminalization of LGBT status or conduct, as well as to support the protection of LGBT refugees and asylum seekers.
According to a release issued by the Human Rights Campaign, HRC President Joe Solmonese met with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton earlier today in Geneva. Clinton is to speak about the issue at noon today. (A livestream is to be available here.)
"The Obama Administration has made a tremendous difference in the lives of LGBT people in the United States and this new strategy helps to extend that presidential leadership across the globe," Solmonese said. "There is no question that the administration's record of advancing equality for LGBT people has been enhanced by the leadership of Secretary Clinton who consistently underscores the simple truth that LGBT rights are human rights."
According to HRC, the presidential memorandum is the first ever U.S. government strategy to deal with human rights abuses against LGBT people abroad.
http://metroweekly.com/poliglot/2011/12/obama-issues-memorandum-direct.html
President Obama today issued a memorandum "directing all agencies engaged abroad to ensure that U.S. diplomacy and foreign assistance promote and protect the human rights of LGBT persons."
Among the steps required by the memorandum are efforts to fight the criminalization of LGBT status or conduct, as well as to support the protection of LGBT refugees and asylum seekers.
According to a release issued by the Human Rights Campaign, HRC President Joe Solmonese met with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton earlier today in Geneva. Clinton is to speak about the issue at noon today. (A livestream is to be available here.)
"The Obama Administration has made a tremendous difference in the lives of LGBT people in the United States and this new strategy helps to extend that presidential leadership across the globe," Solmonese said. "There is no question that the administration's record of advancing equality for LGBT people has been enhanced by the leadership of Secretary Clinton who consistently underscores the simple truth that LGBT rights are human rights."
According to HRC, the presidential memorandum is the first ever U.S. government strategy to deal with human rights abuses against LGBT people abroad.
http://metroweekly.com/poliglot/2011/12/obama-issues-memorandum-direct.html
Memorandum (PDF)
http://metroweekly.com/poliglot/2011lgbt_mem_rel.pdf
The End of the Iraq War: A Timeline
http://www.whitehouse.gov/iraq
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