Category Archives: Legislative Outlook

AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka Releases Statement on Health Care ‘Poison Pill’ Amendments

As senators prepare to take up fixes to the historic legislation passed by the House late Sunday night, they cannot allow process, technicalities, or cynical ploys to derail the legislation. Republicans are going to use a “kitchen sink” amendment strategy, throwing everything they can at the bill to try to sink reform.  This will include

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Buffenbarger Tells Congress Do Not Tax Our Health Benefits

IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger sent a letter to Congress stating that IAM will oppose any health care legislation that taxes workers’ benefits in any way. “Eliminating or capping the tax exclusion would undermine employer-sponsored coverage by removing a key incentive that employers have for providing coverage,” said Buffenbarger in his letter. “The American people

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2010 Transportation-HUD Appropriations Bill Includes Funding for High Speed Rail and Amtrak

On December 8, 2009 the appropriations committees reached a final agreement on the 2010 Transportation-HUD appropriations bill, which includes funding for high speed rail and Amtrak.  The measure will be included in omnibus package of six appropriations bills and a vote on the House floor may come soon.   The transportation appropriation provides $2.5 billion

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