United States Congressman Pete Sessions

Pete Sessions Statement on the IRS’s Political Targeting

Fri, 17 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

Washington, DC - U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX-32), Chairman of the House Rules Committee and a Member of House Republican leadership, today released the following statement regarding the recent Internal Revenue Service (IRS) scandal:

“I join my Tea Party friends and patriots in being outraged at the IRS for abusing its authority by intentionally targeting conservative groups and political opponents of the president. This scandal underscores the Administration’s blatant misuse of resources, lack of regard for freedom and personal liberties, and desire for bigger government and bloated bureaucracy. House Republicans will fully investigate the IRS’s reprehensible actions and work on responsible legislation to increase scrutiny of the IRS and restore faith in the federal government.

“If this scandal has taught us anything, it is that the IRS must be held responsible for its politically-motivated behavior and that it should not have any role in monitoring the American people’s health information. That is why I am proud to cosponsor both the Taxpayer Nondiscrimination & Protection Act of 2013 and the Keep the IRS Off Your Health Care Act of 2013. These bills directly address the IRS and its accountability to the American people going forward – one significantly boosts penalties for discriminating against individuals or organizations based on political speech and the other prohibits the IRS from implementing or enforcing any part of ObamaCare. I will continue to fight for a more responsible government that North Texans can trust, and I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting these important bills.”

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Pete Sessions Statement on SEC Regulatory Accountability Act

Fri, 17 May 2013 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, today released the following statement regarding House passage of H.R. 1062, the SEC Regulatory Accountability Act:

“I applaud the House’s action today to hold the SEC accountable by requiring it to review proposed and existing regulations on the financial industry. It’s imperative that we make certain that the benefits of any government rule outweigh the costs. This legislation will also help us to ensure that the SEC responsibly provides certainty, minimizes costs, and maximizes effectiveness.

“Under the Obama Administration, job creators have been hit with an unprecedented onslaught of rules and regulations without consideration of how they impact our economy. I’m pleased that the House approved my amendment to H.R. 1062, which requires the SEC to also measure the impact of any regulation on jobs in the public and private sectors. Job creation remains my top priority in Congress and I will continue to promote common-sense ideas that will help reduce unnecessary red tape and unleash our economy.”

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Pete Sessions: ObamaCare Drives Up Costs & Discourages Hiring

Thu, 16 May 2013 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, today released the following statement regarding House passage of H.R. 45, legislation that would repeal the President’s healthcare overhaul:

“Families and small businesses across America are already feeling the damaging effects of ObamaCare, which is why House Republicans moved to repeal this disastrous law that imposes one of the largest tax increases in our nation’s history. Contrary to what the Administration sold to the American people, the healthcare law drives up costs and discourages hiring at a time when millions are looking for work. It also dramatically cuts senior care and puts Washington bureaucrats between patients and their doctors.

“The goal for reforming our nation’s healthcare system should be to ensure that all Americans have the opportunity for affordable care of their choice. Unfortunately, ObamaCare fails on all fronts. Instead, it will lead to higher premiums and force millions off of their preferred employer-provided insurance while also costing taxpayers an unsustainable $1.88 trillion.

“I was pleased to vote to fully repeal ObamaCare today and remain committed to replacing it with better reforms that protect families, seniors, and workers. I will continue to stand up for North Texans by fighting for responsible solutions that lower costs and empower patients – not Washington bureaucrats.”

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Letter of Concern to Department of Veterans Affairs

Tue, 14 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

I joined my Texas Congressional colleagues in urging the Department of Veteran Affairs to remedy the unacceptable backlog of disability claims for our country's veterans.

Click here to view the letter.

The Hill Report: Week of May 6-10

Fri, 10 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

This week, President Obama kicked off his “jobs and opportunity” tour in Austin. During his visit to our great state, I hope the President recognized that our nation would best benefit from using Texas as an economic model rather than taking the path of his home state of Illinois, which has an unemployment rate of 9.5%.

Our philosophies of cutting government spending instead of raising taxes and enacting only sensible regulations has led us to be rated first for business and second for average personal income growth. As you know, the most effective way to truly help the working poor and middle class is to continually increase average personal income through economic growth. Texas has become a beacon for economic prosperity and opportunity, outpacing Illinois and other states which enact policies of higher taxes and out-of-control government spending.

Instead of pursuing the same failed tax-and-spend policies, it is my hope that the President’s visit to our business-friendly state will remind him that in order to reenergize our economy and grow jobs, we must prioritize entrepreneurship and free-enterprise over unions and big government. I urge him to return to Washington willing to work with House Republicans to remove government as a barrier to job growth in order to give all North Texas families confidence for a brighter future.

Helping Families Maintain Work-Life Balance

On Wednesday, the House passed the Working Families Flexibility Act of 2013 to give private-sectors employees the option to choose compensatory time off in lieu of monetary overtime compensation. For more than 25 years, public-sector workers have had this flexibility, and I believe that private-sector workers should have the same opportunity.

As a father, I understand that there are times and circumstances when working parents need a voluntary tool to manage their many responsibilities. Whether your weeks are filled with ballet recitals, school plays or caring for an aging parent, you should have the flexibility to balance work and family life. That is why I was proud to be a cosponsor of this important bill to make life easier for many North Texas working families. To watch my remarks in the House Rules Committee on the Working Families Flexibility Act, click here.

Full Faith and Credit Act

As you may know, the House convened for a Joint Session of Congress on Wednesday to hear an official address by the Republic of Korea’s President, Park Geun-hye. Her Excellency’s speech was a great reminder of the vital role that the United States plays in international policy and the essential role we hold in the global economy.

As the world’s leading power, our reputation as a prosperous nation must be protected even during these difficult economic times. That is why I joined my colleagues in supporting the Full Faith and Credit Act this week, a bill that guarantees the timely payment of our federal debt obligations. The fact remains that the bulk of our debt is held here within the United States—with 25% of the total debt held solely by the Federal Reserve and Social Security. In addition to these domestic holders, foreign investors account for roughly one-third of our outstanding debt.

For far too long, the United States has lived beyond its means, which has placed our nation in the position of having to finance an enormous national debt. As your representative in Congress, I will continue to not only work to ensure that our nation does not default on paying its bills and debt obligations, but I will also continue working to bring our budget into balance by reducing our out-of-control spending. Visit my website to learn more about the Full Faith and Credit Act.

Click here to view my remarks on economic freedom

Global Down Syndrome Foundation Gala

As you may know, I am a strong advocate in Congress for people with disabilities. As the father of a young man with Down syndrome, I greatly appreciate the work of the many organizations that are dedicated to research, awareness and support for all of the special needs community. I'm also thankful for a government that encourages taxpayers to take care of the needs of one another by incentivizing charitable donations through our tax code rather than by overtaxing individuals in order to provide inadequate care for those in need.

Congressman Pete Sessions with his son Alex at the Gala

This week, I was delighted to attend the Global Down Syndrome Foundation “Be Beautiful Be Yourself” Gala with my family, Congressional colleagues and several outstanding advocates from across the country. The highlight of my evening was being a part of the event’s fashion show where I walked the runway with Patrick Boyle, a young man from Maryland with Down syndrome. It was inspiring to hear about the accomplishments of all the individuals with Down syndrome in attendance. This event served as a reminder that we must continue to work to give our loved ones the tools they need to develop to the best of their abilities. To view more photos from this year’s gala, visit my Facebook page.

Have a good weekend.

Sincerely,

Pete Sessions

Pete Sessions: We Must Take Default off the Table

Thu, 09 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, today released the following statement regarding House passage of H.R. 807, the Full Faith and Credit Act:

“I’m pleased that the House took responsible action today to guarantee the full faith and credit of the United States by ensuring timely payment of our federal debt obligations. Default is unacceptable and we must take this scenario off the table to prevent American families and small businesses from being hit with another recession at a time when they can least afford it.

“Under the President’s tax-and-spend policies, North Texans are concerned about making ends meet and providing a brighter future for their children and grandchildren. While family budgets have decreased over the past four years, the federal budget has increased. Washington has a spending problem and our current path is clearly unsustainable. I will continue to stand up for the American people by protecting the full faith and credit of our nation and tackling our out-of-control spending to put us on a path towards prosperity.”

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Pete Sessions Statement on President Obama’s Visit to Texas

Thu, 09 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

“It’s fitting that President Obama is kicking off his ‘jobs and opportunity’ tour in Texas today – the state that was rated first for business and second for average personal income growth. With low taxes and sensible regulations, Texas is a beacon for economic growth and opportunity.

“Instead of following the path taken by his home state of Illinois that has a 9.5% unemployment rate, the President should recognize that our nation would benefit from following Texas as an economic model. Illinois’ policies of higher taxes and out-of-control government spending mirror the Obama Administration’s approach to the economy and have unsurprisingly led business-friendly states like Texas to far outpace them in job growth.

“It’s time for the President to finally focus on much-needed job creation and projects like the Keystone XL Pipeline that will put thousands of Americans back to work. I hope that his visit to Texas will make him realize that pro-growth policies and prioritizing free-enterprise over government will reenergize our economy. I urge the President to return to Washington willing to work with House Republicans to remove government as a barrier to job growth and to give American families confidence for a brighter future.”

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Pete Sessions: Private-Sector Workers Deserve the Same Flexibility to Better Balance Work and Family Life

Wed, 08 May 2013 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, today released the following statement regarding H.R. 1406, the Working Families Flexibility Act of 2013:

“Under current law, public-sector workers have the option to convert their overtime into comp time. This benefit is also included in many public-sector union collective bargaining agreements. House Republicans believe private-sector workers deserve the same flexibility to determine for themselves what to do with their overtime compensation.

“As a father, I understand that there are times when working parents need a voluntary tool to manage their many responsibilities and make life a little easier. This common-sense bill ensures that private-sector workers have what government workers already enjoy – the opportunity to have greater workplace flexibility.”

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The Hill Report: Week of April 29 - May 3

Sat, 04 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

This week, I enjoyed hosting an awards ceremony to recognize and congratulate the 2013 Congressional Art Competition winners at the Art Institute of Dallas. The annual competition, known as “An Artistic Discovery,” is a nationwide art contest initiated by Members of Congress in their respective districts that provides an opportunity for local students to showcase their individual talents.

This year’s competition included 34 entries from students representing ten schools in the 32nd Congressional District. The Grand Prize winner and Runners Up honors were chosen by art instructors from The Art Institute and local artists. The People’s Choice Award winner was chosen by constituents through online voting on my website.

Congressman Pete Sessions with Grand Prize winner Amber Yen

Amber Yen, a junior at Fairhill School, was awarded the Grand Prize for her oil painting entitled “Childhood Memory.” Her artwork will be showcased in the corridor leading to the U.S. Capitol building for the next year. As the Grand Prize recipient, Amber will travel to Washington, DC for the national Congressional High School Art Competition award ceremony in June.

Runners Up honors were presented to Stephen Renard, a senior at Parish Episcopal, for his photograph “Vibrant Color in Everyday Life” and to Oscar Mora, a junior at Lakeview Centennial High School, for his graphite pencil sketch “Oscar Squared.” The People’s Choice Award was presented to Samuel Boyne, a junior at Covenant School, for his pen and watercolor piece “Grasshopper Fete.” The two Runners Up and the People’s Choice Award artworks will be displayed in my office for the next year.

I’m very proud of all the students who participated in the art competition this year and was pleased to personally congratulate Amber, Stephen, Oscar and Samuel on their artistic accomplishments this week. I am delighted that visitors from across the state and country will be able to see firsthand the exceptional talent from the students of the 32nd Congressional District.

If you’re interested in participating in next year’s Congressional Art Competition, please contact Jennifer Lang in my Dallas District office at 972.392.0505 for more information. Click here to view all the winning artwork.

UT Southwestern

On Monday, I visited the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas to learn more about the great strides that faculty, staff and students are making in diabetes research. During my visit, I met with Dr. Daniel Podolsky, President of UT Southwestern Medical Center, and toured the Touchstone Diabetes Center.

As you may know, the Touchstone Diabetes Center’s research focuses on Type I and Type II diabetes. I was encouraged to learn of their progress in understanding diabetes and its impact on the lives of so many Americans. In addition to discussing their research, we also discussed their concerns with ObamaCare and the direct impact it will have on the scientific research community.

Junior Achievement of Dallas Finance Park

Also this week, I visited Junior Achievement of Dallas Finance Park and met with their program staff to learn about their work. I was pleased to hear how this interactive program helps North Texas middle and high school students develop skills in financial management.

Congressman Pete Sessions with Junior Achievement of Dallas staff

As a strong proponent of fiscal responsibility, I am proud to have this community-based program in the 32nd District and am confident that it will help prepare North Texas students to address financial challenges later in life. Click here to learn more about JA Dallas.

April Jobs Report

The monthly jobs report released today once again underscores the need for the federal government to enact pro-growth policies that will reenergize our sluggish economy and help to get Americans back to work. While the 165,000 jobs added this month are good news for some Americans, the unfortunate reality is that millions more remain unemployed or have given up looking for work. Last month’s labor force participation rate was at an alarming 63.3%—its lowest level since 1979.

In the President’s press conference this week, he failed to even mention the need for private sector job growth or projects like the Keystone XL Pipeline that will create thousands of American jobs. Instead of addressing much-needed job creation, the President continues to stifle our economy by imposing onerous regulations, spending more money and pushing for higher taxes.

I will continue to stand up for North Texas families and small businesses by fighting to get government out of the way and by promoting policies that encourage job creation. For more information on my work this Congress to make life better for the people of the 32nd Congressional District, please visit my website, download my Smartphone App, or follow me on Facebook and Twitter.

Have a good weekend.

Sincerely,

Pete Sessions

Pete Sessions Statement on April Jobs Report

Fri, 03 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

“Although today's jobs report is good news for some Americans, millions more remain unemployed or have given up looking for work in the Obama economy. Despite the fact that our unemployment rate remains stubbornly high, President Obama failed to even mention the need for private sector job growth or job-creating projects like the Keystone XL Pipeline in his press conference this week. The President’s continued assault on the free-enterprise system – onerous regulations, higher taxes, and wasteful government spending – has stifled our economy and discouraged businesses from hiring new workers.

“Last week’s disappointing GDP report indicated that U.S. economic growth was once again slower than expected. While there was growth in personal consumption, personal savings and personal income both plummeted. These discouraging statistics underscore the need for pro-growth policies that will reenergize our sluggish economy. I will continue to stand up for North Texas families and small businesses by fighting to get government out of the way and by promoting policies that encourage job creation. I remain committed to working towards making life better for my constituents and future generations of Americans.”

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Pete Sessions Congratulates 2013 Congressional Art Competition Winners

Wed, 01 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX-32) congratulated the winners of the 2013 Congressional High School Art Competition during an awards ceremony at The Art Institute of Dallas on Tuesday.

The Congressional High School Art Competition, known as “An Artistic Discovery” is an annual, nationwide art competition initiated by Members of Congress in their respective districts. The competition for the 32nd Congressional District of Texas, organized by Congressman Sessions, is open to all high school students in the district. This annual competition provides an opportunity for local students to showcase their individual talents and receive national recognition.

Congressman Pete Sessions with Grand Prize winner Amber Yen

“I commend Amber on her artistic accomplishment and look forward to seeing her work displayed in the corridor to the U.S. Capitol,” said Sessions. “I am delighted that visitors from across the country and other Congressional members will be able to see firsthand the exceptional talent from the students of the 32nd Congressional District.”

This year’s competition included 34 entries from students representing 10 local schools and was once again sponsored by The Art Institute of Dallas. Prior to the awards ceremony, the Grand Prize winner and Runners Up honors were chosen by art instructors from The Art Institute and local artists. The People’s Choice Award winner was chosen by Congressman Sessions’ constituents through online voting on his website.

“The award-winning art produced by Amber, Stephen, Oscar and Samuel showcased their exceptional talent, and I am very proud of their work,” said Sessions. “All of the pieces submitted from students in this year’s competition exhibited dedication, creativity and passion. I wish them the very best as they continue their education and further develop their artistic abilities.”

Students and schools interested in participating in next year’s Congressional Art Competition may contact Jennifer Lang in Congressman Sessions’ Dallas District office at 972.392.0505 for more information.

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Click here to view the other winners and their artwork.

The Hill Report: Week of April 22-26

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST

This week, I joined the people of Texas and all Americans in honoring the 14 Texans who lost their lives in the tragic explosion in West, Texas last week. The outpour of support for the people of West was highlighted by the thousands of people who attended yesterday's memorial service.

My heart is with the families of all the victims, and my thoughts and prayers are with our neighbors in West. Click here to learn how you can help support the victims of the West explosion.

Update on FAA Flight Delays

As you may know, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) furloughed thousands of air traffic controllers this week in response to the President's sequestration cuts—a decision that has caused flight delays across the country. Instead of making responsible cuts to expenses such as employee travel and non-essential conferences, the Administration chose to play politics and make cuts where it would negatively impact the American people the most.

To put an end to these unnecessary furloughs and to prevent more delays, the House passed H.R. 1765, the Reducing Flight Delays Act of 2013. This bill would end the threat of flight delays–while also keeping intact the FAA spending cuts–by giving the Department of Transportation (DOT) the authority to transfer $253 million from the FAA's Airport Improvement Program account to its Operations account, which would prevent reduced operations and staffing.
I'm pleased that the House and Senate stepped in this week to put an end to the President's politically-motivated decision to inconvenience travelers. It is my hope that the President will quickly sign this legislation into law.
Bipartisan Letter to CMS

Also this week, I joined five of my Congressional colleagues in leading a bipartisan group of more than 100 Members in sending a formal letter of inquiry to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). In this letter, we asked CMS for information regarding its implementation of the two percent sequester cut to Medicare payments to providers and its impact on Medicare Part B drugs, particularly chemotherapy and other specialty infusible drugs.
The letter urged CMS to clarify to Congress both its statutory authority to reduce Medicare Part B drug reimbursement and its understanding of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) guidance directing federal agencies to use any available flexibility when implementing the sequestration to reduce operational risks and minimize its impact on the American people. Moreover, the bipartisan letter challenged CMS to use what flexibility it does have to direct the cuts away from patients.

There have been numerous news reports of cancer clinics all across the country turning away thousands of Medicare patients due to these cuts. As your Member of Congress, I believe it is my responsibility to seek answers from agencies and departments here in Washington that make decisions and take actions that could impact my constituents. I remain committed to ensuring that North Texans–and all Americans–have unencumbered access to their health care professionals and the critical treatments they need.

George W. Bush Presidential Center Dedication

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to attend the historic dedication of the George W. Bush Presidential Center dedication in Dallas, Texas. I was honored to take part in the celebratory event, which was attended by all five living United States presidents and other Texas officials.

Congressman Pete Sessions in Dallas at the Bush Center Dedication

The Bush Center will be a wonderful addition to the 32nd Congressional District of Texas, and I am proud that residents and visitors from around the world will have the opportunity to travel to Dallas and access inimitable presidential records, historical materials and one-of-a-kind artifacts. I am confident that the Center's focus on education, economic growth, global health and freedom will leave a lasting impact on our nation for years to come.

Have a good weekend.

Sincerely,

Pete Sessions

Pete Sessions Introduces Bipartisan, Cost-Effective Solution to Help Make College More Affordable

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 02:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX-32), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, today released the following statement regarding H.R. 1449, the Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure Act of 2013 (CHIA) that he recently introduced in the House:

“Unlike college and university owned housing, not-for-profit student housing entities are currently prohibited from using charitable contributions to build and maintain their facilities,” said Sessions. “That is why I have introduced the Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure Act to eliminate this arbitrary distinction in our tax code and to make college more affordable for our nation’s students. CHIA will ensure that critical property improvements can be made to the affordable housing units that over 250,000 students call home during their college years.”

Nearly 100 student leaders from approximately 70 colleges and universities – including Baylor, Texas A&M, and the University of Texas – met with lawmakers on Capitol Hill this week to express their support for CHIA. In addition to college affordability issues, students articulated the need for life-safety upgrades, such as fire sprinklers, to not-for-profit housing in order to ensure a safer living environment for current and future residents.

“I urge my colleagues in the House and Senate to join me in supporting this bipartisan, cost-effective solution to help make college more affordable, reduce long-term student loan debt, create small business jobs nationwide and improve campus safety,” concluded Sessions.

Pete Sessions on the Opening of the George W. Bush Presidential Center

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 12:00:01 EST

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX-32), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, today released the following statement regarding the opening of the George W. Bush Presidential Center in the 32nd Congressional District:

“I was delighted to attend this morning’s dedication – a historic event for Southern Methodist University, the people of Dallas and the great state of Texas. The George W. Bush Presidential Center will provide my constituents, students and visitors from around the world with the opportunity to access inimitable presidential records, historical materials and one-of-a-kind artifacts. I’m confident that the center's focus on education, economic growth, global health and freedom will leave a lasting impact on our nation for years to come.”

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Sessions, Green, Burgess, Schwartz, Whitfield and Kind Lead Bipartisan Charge to Get Answers from CMS on How to Protect Cancer Patients’ Access to Health Care

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX), Congressman Gene Green (D-TX), Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz (D-PA), Congressman Ed Whitfield (R-KY) and Congressman Ron Kind (D-WI), led a bipartisan group of more than 100 of their House colleagues in sending a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) asking for information regarding its implementation of the two percent sequester cut to Medicare payments to providers. The lawmakers expressed particular concern for its impact on Medicare Part B drugs – specifically chemotherapy and other specialty infusible drugs.

The letter urged CMS to clarify to Congress both its statutory authority to reduce Medicare Part B drug reimbursement and its understanding of Office of Management and Budget (OMB) guidance directing federal agencies to use any available flexibility when implementing the sequestration spending cuts to reduce operational risks and minimize its impact on the American people. Moreover, the bipartisan letter challenged CMS to use what flexibility it has available to direct the cuts away from patients.

The pricing for cancer drugs covered under Medicare Part B is a formula – Average Sales Price (ASP) plus six percent – intended to reimburse cancer clinics and other providers for their drug acquisition costs at average market rates. This reimbursement formula is comprised of both the fixed cost of the drug – ASP – and an additional physician services payment – six percent – that covers costs for inventory, facilities, storage, handling and waste disposal associated with these drugs.

“Since sequestration cuts took effect, news reports of cancer clinics turning away thousands of Medicare patients have circulated across our nation,” said Sessions. “As a Member of Congress, I believe it is my responsibility to seek answers from agencies and departments here in Washington that make decisions and take actions that could impact my constituents. I remain committed to ensuring that North Texans – and all Americans – have access to their health care professionals and the treatments they need.”

“It’s critical that access to quality care is not diminished because of sequestration,” said Green. “This letter is important so patients, providers, and Congress can get clarity on how CMS plans to move forward. I am concerned that if sequestration cuts are applied to the entire drug payment, many beneficiaries will lose access to their current providers. I am pleased to be joined by such a large bipartisan coalition raising questions about these cuts and I look forward to working with my colleagues and CMS to mitigate the effects of the cuts on beneficiaries and providers.”

“The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services need to explain the legal authority it used in applying sequestration to Medicare Part B drug reimbursement particularly in the oncology space since the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003 determines that reimbursement in statute,” said Burgess. “I am concerned as to why CMS has decided to apply sequestration to the entire reimbursement amount and not just to the physicians services, and if they had to apply the cut at all in this space. I am glad that in an overwhelming bipartisan fashion we are questioning a seemingly basic misunderstanding of math and why CMS did not take the impact to patients and health care providers into account in exercising available flexibility. These concerns need to be addressed by CMS as soon as possible.”

“Implementing mandatory cuts to Medicare funding in this way will have a devastating effect on millions of cancer patients across America,” said Schwartz. “We must do everything in our power to ensure that cancer patients in Pennsylvania and nationwide continue to have access to the quality, affordable treatment they need in their own community.”

“While there is certainly a need to curtail excessive government spending, we should not be disproportionally targeting those battling cancer,” said Whitfield. “The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services need to use any flexibility available when applying sequestration to Part B drugs such as those used to treat cancer patients.”

“We’re calling on CMS to do whatever they can to ease the burden of the sequester on people bravely fighting cancer,” said Kind. “We need to take action now, before more patients lose access to life-saving cancer drugs.”

The letter, which was signed by 124 Members, was submitted to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on Tuesday, April 23, 2013. Click here to view the letter.

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The Hill Report: Week of April 15-19

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 12:00:01 EST

This week, our nation was shocked with two tragic events – one in Boston and one just south of the 32nd Congressional District. My thoughts and prayers continue to be with those who lost loved ones or were injured in the horrific bombings in Boston and the devastating explosion in West.

In times of destruction and despair, Texans have always come together to help their neighbors rebuild. The outpouring of assistance from volunteers and first responders demonstrates the selfless character of the people of our great state, and I want to take this opportunity to thank all who have offered support to our neighbors in West.

My office has listed several resources for those looking to offer assistance to the victims and displaced families in West, as well as important information for individuals needing assistance in the area.

Blood Donations: You can donate blood by scheduling a donation appointment in your area. For more information, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.
Food & Shelter Support: The Red Cross and the Salvation Army are providing food and shelter for those affected. Visit their websites to find out how you can volunteer to help support.
Donations and Emergency Assistance: Trucks are collecting towels, clothes and blankets at the campuses of Baylor, TCU and SMU. You can also visit my website to view an extensive list of emergency and informational contacts, including ways to assist the community of West.
Information: Families seeking information on victims and survivors of the Texas explosion can call the Hotline at (254) 826-4115, use the Red Cross' Safe and Well database, or visit my website to access the contact information for local medical centers accepting injured residents.

People’s Choice Award

As you may remember, each year I support the 32nd Congressional District’s participation in the Congressional Art Competition to give local students the opportunity to showcase their individual talents and receive national recognition. You can participate in choosing this year’s "People’s Choice" winner by casting your vote online. Voting will be open until Monday, April 22nd at 3:00 pm CT, and I will be announcing the winner in an upcoming newsletter. Click here to pick your favorite piece of art from the talented students in North Texas.

Have a good weekend.

Sincerely,

Pete Sessions

Cast Your Vote for the 2013 People's Choice Award

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 01:50:00 EST

Voting for this year's Congressional Art Competition “People's Choice” Award is now open. Online voting will continue until Monday, April 22nd at 3:00pm CT, and the winner will be announced in an upcoming weekly newsletter. Thank you for your participation in this exciting contest for the students of the 32nd Congressional District!

Click here to browse the artwork and submit your vote today.

West, Texas Emergency Resources

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 12:00:01 EST

I am deeply saddened by the devastating explosion that occurred in West, Texas last night. Governor Perry and Texas officials have taken swift action during this crisis, and the outpouring of assistance from volunteers and first responders demonstrates the selfless character of the Texas people. In times of destruction and despair, Texans have always come together to help their neighbors rebuild. Below I have included contact and donation information for those needing assistance:

Medical Centers- To check on injured residents admitted local medical centers, please call:

Hillcrest Baptist Medical Center- (254) 202-1100
Scott & White- (888) 394-4947
Providence Health Center- (254) 761-7200

*For information on victims and survivors, call the Hotline (254) 826-4115.

Blood Donations-

Carter Blood Care Center will accept donations beginning at 9 a.m.
Providence Hospital will accept donations until 5 pm.
Scott & White Blood Donation Center will accept donations beginning at 8 am.

Shelters-

First Baptist Church of Lott- 518 E. Gassaway, Lott, TX, 254. 829.2321
The Aquilla ISD facilities (gym entrance)- 404 Richards Aquilla, TX, 254.694.3770
Blair's Cove Apartments- 2425 S. 21st St., Waco, TX- 254.447.0810
Latham Springs Baptist Camp- 134 Private Road 223 in Aquilla, TX, 254.694.3689
Valley Mills Nursing Home- 101 W Avenue E, Valley Mills, 254.932.6288
First Baptist Church of Gholson- 228 Wildcat Circle, Waco, 254.829.2321
Gholson ISD- 137 Hamilton Dr. Waco, TX 76705, 254.829.1528• Brazos Meadows Baptist Church- 625 S. Hewitt Dr, Hewitt, TX, 254.666.7314
Antioch Community Church- 505 North 20th Street, Waco TX, 254.754.0386
Penelope School- 309 Ave. D, Penelope, TX, 254.533.2215
Central United Methodist Church- 5740 Bagby Ave Waco, TX 76712, 254.420.2862
American Legion Post 121- 722 Leroy Parkway, Elm Mott, TX 76640; 254.754.8840
Sykora Family Ford- 519 S George Kacir Dr West, TX 76691; 254.826.5314
Town Hall Estates- 300 Happy LN Hillsboro, TX 76645; 254.582.8482
The Abbott Gym
Alliance Auto Auction

Click here to access a Google document with more housing options.

Medical Assistance-

Central Texas Urgent Care clinics in Hewitt and Lacy Lakeview will remain open all night to treat those with minor injuries.
HEB Pharmacy in the Woodway area will remain open all night to help accommodate West residents who may be injured and need prescriptions filled

Donation Locations-

The Extraco Events Center will be setting up to take donations starting tomorrow at 9:00 am. For information call 254-776-1660.
The Home Depot store in Bellmead will be open all night for those who need plywood, generators, etc.
Both Peas & Tots and Smarty Pants consignment stores in Waco are accepting clothing donations in all sizes for those in West.
Axtell High School will be taking any kind of donations at the school tomorrow! Please donate anything! The PALS organization is taking all donations and will be accepting tomorrow and Friday during school.

I am confident that the strength and resilience of the Texas people will continue to shine through these difficult times, as it has so many times before. My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with all of those affected by this devastating explosion, and I extend my deepest gratitude to the first responders, local officials and volunteers.

Pete Sessions Statement on the Explosion in West, Texas

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 12:00:01 EST

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX-32), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, today released the following statement in response to last night’s tragic explosion at the West Fertilizer Co. plant in West, Texas:

“I join my fellow Texans in offering my deepest condolences to our neighbors in West who were devastated by the explosion last night. My thoughts and prayers go out to those who have lost loved ones, and I wish a prompt recovery to all who were injured. During tragic times of grief and destruction, the people of Texas have always come together to help our neighbors. I offer my support to the people of West and am extremely grateful for all of the first responders and volunteers who have risked their lives to keep others safe.”

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Click here to learn how you can help those affected by this terrible tragedy.

Pete Sessions Statement on the Passing of Texas Conservative Bob Perry

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 12:00:01 EST

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX-32), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, today released the following statement in response to the passing of fellow Texan and supporter of conservative values, Bob Perry:

“I join my fellow Texans and all Americans in mourning the loss of a dedicated patriot, Bob Perry. A teacher, business owner and philanthropist, he dedicated his life to helping others and was a champion of the conservative cause. Our country is a better place because of Bob, who leaves behind a lasting impact on the great state of Texas. His pro-business outlook and dedication to economic liberty embodies the principles of the American Dream and the idea that future generations will have greater opportunity than those who came before them. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Doylene, and the Perry family as they celebrate his many life accomplishments and mourn his loss.”

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