| House Democrats continue to be very focused on the economy, and in addition to the several measures we have passed, are taking further steps to rebuild the economy and assist Americans working to get by during this recession.
Next week, the House expects to consider the budget conference report, which includes targeted, strategic investments to create jobs, make a down payment on health care reform, create a path to energy independence, reform and invest in education, and ensure economic prosperity over the short- and long-term. We will also consider the Credit Cardholders’ Bill of Rights, which passed out of the Financial Services Committee this week with bipartisan support. This important legislation provides needed protection for consumers from unfair and arbitrary practices employed by credit card companies.
This Wednesday marked our 39th Earth Day, an anniversary that is especially significant given one of the challenges we face today: our nation's energy crisis. Congress continues to work with the Obama Administration to address this issue, which is not only critical to the health of our planet, but is also a vital part of our efforts to rebuild the economy. Energy legislation will help create new ‘clean energy’ jobs, promote new sources of renewable energy, advance our energy independence, increase energy efficiency, and limit and reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. The Energy and Commerce Committee continues to hold hearings on their discussion draft with a goal of passing a bill out of committee by Memorial Day.
The House is also making good progress to advance the discussion on the need for comprehensive health care reform. Over the last three months, there have been 10 hearings in the House on health reform, with more planned in the weeks ahead. Democrats are also working to seek broad public input from citizens about what they want to see in a health reform measure, and will continue the conversation as we work towards our goal of passing a bill in the House before August. Passing a reform measure will be a major effort, and we are committed to working together to advance legislation that meets the objectives laid out by President Obama and promotes long-term economic recovery and growth.
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