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Committees:
House Committee on Financial Services
House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
House Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Credit
House Subcommittee on Highways and Transit
House Subcommittee on Insurance, Housing and Community Opportunity
House Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials
House Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment
Biography:
Born November 26, 1953 in Glen Dale, WV; BS, Zoology, Duke University, 1975; Master's, Education, University of Virginia, 1976; Career Counselor, West Virginia State College, 1976-1978; Director, Educational Information Center, 1978-1980; Delegate, West Virginia State House of Delegates, 1997-2000; Representative, United States House of Representatives, 2001-present.
| 113th Congress House Potential Key Manufacturing Votes |
| Description |
Preferred Position |
This official's vote compared with the preferred position |
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Vote on H.R. 624, the Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act (CISPA). Approved 288-127 on April 18, 2013 (Roll No. 117). The NAM supported the bill, which would allow the government to share timely information related to cyber attacks to the business community and create new liability protections so that companies can share cybersecurity information with the government or their peers. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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| This official's percentage on this voting record: |
100%
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| Official NAM 112th Congress House Voting Record |
| Description |
Preferred Position |
This official's vote compared with the preferred position |
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Vote on H.R. 2, the Repealing
the Job-Killing Health Care Law Act. Approved 245-189 on Jan. 19, 2011 (Roll No. 14). The NAM supported the legislation, reiterating that the 2010 health care law will drive up manufacturers’ health care costs. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on
H.R. 4, the Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act. Approved 314-112 on March 3, 2011 (Roll No. 162). Signed into law (P.L. 112-9) on April 14, 2011. The NAM supported the legislation, which would repeal language in the 2010 health care law requiring businesses to file an IRS 1099 form for every purchase in excess of $600. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on a LaTourette (R-OH) amendment to leave in place ill-advised 2010 National Mediation Board regulations that made major changes to union election procedures under the Railway Labor Act. Rejected 206-220 on April 1, 2011 (Roll No. 217). The NAM opposed the amendment and the 2010 rules, which would reverse decades of labor law precedent without guidance from Congress. NAM POSITION: No.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 910, a bill to prevent the EPA from regulating GHG emissions without the input of Congress. Approved 255-172 on April 7, 2011 (Roll No. 249). The NAM supported the bill, which sought to ensure a healthy and productive debate in Congress before EPA regulates carbon dioxide emissions from stationary sources, including manufacturing facilities. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 1229, legislation that requires the federal government to review and respond to offshore energy permit applications within 30 days of receiving such applications, places reasonable limits on the use of courts to block permits and forces the Interior Department to conduct several delayed or canceled offshore lease sales. Approved 263-163 on May 11, 2011
(Roll No. 309). The NAM supported the bill, which aims to prevent unnecessary bureaucratic delays and increase access to domestic energy sources. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 1231, legislation requiring the Interior Department to make 50 percent of available unleased acreage on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) available for lease and requiring future U.S. offshore leasing plans to include: 1) lease sales in areas containing the greatest known oil/gas reserves; 2) energy production goals; and 3) when requested by a governor, a lease sale that includes that state’s offshore area. Approved 243-179 on May 12, 2011 (Roll No. 320). The NAM supported the legislation, as access to competitively priced energy helps U.S. companies compete in the global economy. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Y |
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Vote on
H.R. 2021, legislation that would eliminate delays and unnecessary litigation related to attaining Clean Air Act (CAA) permits for companies seeking to develop domestic energy off the coast of Alaska. Approved 253-166 (Roll No. 478) on June 22, 2011. The NAM supported the bill, which would set a clear timetable for EPA permit reviews and resolved other issues related to CAA permits. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 1249, the Leahy-Smith
America Invents Act. Approved 304-117 on June 23, 2011
(Roll No. 491). Signed into law (P.L. 112-29) on Sept. 16, 2011. The NAM supported the bill, which will improve the patent application and approval process and provide more patent protection and certainty for U.S. manufacturers and inventors. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 2018, a bill to prevent the EPA from overriding or delaying states’ permitting and water quality decisions. Approved 239-184 on July 13, 2011 (Roll No. 573). The NAM supported the bill, which would give companies the assurance they need to move forward with key infrastructure projects and create thousands of jobs that support them. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 1938, a bill requiring the Administration to render a decision by Nov. 1, 2011 on a permit for the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline. Approved
279-147 on July 26, 2011 (Roll No. 650). The NAM supported the bill and the pipeline project, which is expected to generate
$20 billion in investment and at least 120,000 American jobs. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Y |
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Vote on S. 365, the Budget Control Act. Approved 269-161 on Aug. 1, 2011 (Roll No. 690). Signed into law (P.L. 112-25) on Aug. 2, 2011. The NAM supported the bill, which raised the debt limit and avoided a government default on its financial obligations. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 2587, the Protecting Jobs from Government Interference Act. Approved 238-186 on Sept. 15, 2011
(Roll No. 711). The NAM supported the bill, which would prohibit the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) from ordering employers to close, relocate or transfer employment under any circumstance. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 2401, the Transparency in Regulatory Analysis of Impacts on the Nation (TRAIN) Act. Approved 249-169 on Sept. 23, 2011 (Roll No. 741). The NAM supported the bill, which calls for a cumulative analysis of numerous EPA regulations -- Utility MACT, Boiler MACT, coal ash, greenhouse gases, Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR), etc. It would also impose a stay on the Utility MACT and CSAPR -- two rules that would have a significant adverse effect on electricity prices for manufacturers and consumers -- until six months after the study has been completed. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Y |
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Vote on H.R. 2681, which would delay implementation of the Cement MACT
rule for two years. Approved 262-161 on Oct. 6, 2011
(Roll No. 764). The NAM supported the bill, which would give the EPA more time and better guidelines for developing achievable rules without devastating an industry so critical to manufacturing. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 3078, the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement Implementation Act. Approved 262-167 on Oct. 12, 2011 (Roll No. 781). Signed into law (P.L. 112-42) on Oct. 21, 2011. The NAM supported the bill and the agreement, which is expected to increase U.S. GDP by nearly $2.5 billion and U.S. merchandise exports by $1.1 billion. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 3079, the U.S.-Panama Trade Promotion Agreement Implementation Act. Approved
300-129 on Oct. 12, 2011 (Roll No. 782). Signed into law
(P.L. 112-43) on Oct. 21, 2011. The NAM supported the bill and the agreement, which will lower Panama’s 8 percent average tariff on U.S. goods to zero and immediately benefit the more than 7,000 U.S. small and medium-sized companies that export to Panama. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 3080, the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act. Approved 278-151 on Oct. 12, 2011 (Roll No. 783). Signed into law (P.L. 112-41) on Oct. 21, 2011. The NAM supported the bill and the agreement, which is expected to trigger an $8 billion increase in exports of U.S.-manufactured goods and add $10 billion–$12 billion to U.S. GDP. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 2832, legislation extending the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) programs. Approved 307-122 on Oct. 12, 2011 (Roll No. 784). Signed into law (P.L. 112-40) on Oct. 21, 2011. The NAM supported the bill, noting that nearly three-quarters of all GSP-eligible imports are used to manufacture goods in the United States, while TAA programs provide key retraining and assistance to trade-impacted workers. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 2250, the EPA Regulatory Relief Act, which would delay the Boiler MACT regulation for two years and give the EPA more time
to re-propose more workable rules. Approved 275-142 on
Oct. 13, 2011 (Roll No. 791). The NAM supported the amendment, which would give companies the certainty they need to plan, invest and comply with the rule’s capital-intensive requirements. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 2273, the Coal Residuals Reuse and Management Act. Approved 267-144 on Oct. 14, 2011 (Roll No. 800). The NAM supported the legislation, which would ensure the safe regulation of coal ash in a cost-effective manner, while preserving the thousands of high-paying jobs associated with the coal ash industry. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 674, legislation that would repeal the 3 percent withholding tax on most government contractors. Approved 422-0 on Nov. 16, 2011 (Roll No. 853). Signed into law
(P.L. 112-56) on Nov. 21, 2011. The NAM supported the bill, noting that the withholding requirement would impose additional costs and administrative burdens on manufacturers that do business with the government. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Y |
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Vote on H.R. 3094, the Workforce Democracy and Fairness Act. Approved 235-188 on Nov. 30, 2011
(Roll No. 869). The NAM supported the bill, which would:
1) revise the National Labor Relations Board’s (NLRB) “ambush election” rule so that employers and employees have adequate time to prepare for union elections; and 2) reinstate the standard by which employees vote in union elections, preventing the possibility of several micro-unions at one facility. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 527, the Regulatory Flexibility Improvement Act. Approved 263-159 on Dec. 1, 2011 (Roll No. 880). The NAM supported the bill, which would put in place new standards that improve the regulatory process and reduce the regulatory burden on small businesses. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 3010, the Regulatory Accountability Act. Approved 253-167 on Dec. 2, 2011 (Roll No. 888). The NAM supported the bill, which would enhance the regulatory process by: increasing public participation in shaping rules before they are proposed; preventing agency abuses of interim final rules; requiring agencies to use the least costly regulatory option in most circumstances; and providing for appropriate judicial review of agency decisions. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on a Polis (D-CO) amendment to strike bill language aimed at increasing the number of oil shale leases in areas where the largest and highest quality deposits of oil shale exist. Rejected 160-205 on Feb. 15, 2012 (Roll No. 59). The NAM opposed the amendment, noting that development of oil shale would provide a safe, domestic source of energy and likely result in the creation of new, high-paying manufacturing jobs. NAM POSITION: No.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on a Hastings (R-WA) amendment to streamline the permitting process under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Approved 250-171 on Feb. 16, 2012 (Roll No. 66). The NAM supported the amendment, which would allow for the expedited development of renewable energy projects and streamline a process typically characterized by delays and cost overruns. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on a Markey (D-MA) amendment that would have severely distorted energy markets by banning the export of any natural gas produced pursuant to new leases issued off the coast of Alaska. Amendment failed 168-254 on Feb. 16, 2012 (Roll No. 67). The NAM opposed the amendment, noting that manufacturers strongly oppose needless government interference in their business operations. NAM POSITION: No.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 4105, legislation that would reverse a 2011 appeals court ruling and allow the Commerce Department to continue levying countervailing duties against non-market economies, chiefly China. Approved 370-39 on March 6, 2012 (Roll No. 96). The NAM supported the legislation, noting that without it, manufacturers would have no means of defending themselves against subsidized exports from non-market economies in the future. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 5, the PATH Act. Approved 223-181 on March 22, 2012 (Roll No. 126). The NAM supported the bill, which would: place reasonable limits on punitive damage awards; allow limits on excessive contingency fees; proportion liability fairly; set a uniform statute of limitations; and repeal the IPAB, whose actions would almost certainly result in higher private-sector health care costs. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Y |
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Vote on H.R. 2072, legislation authorizing the Bank for three years. Approved 330-93 on May 9, 2012 (Roll No. 224). Signed into law (P.L. 112-122) on May 30, 2012. The NAM supported the bill, noting that the Bank helps level the playing field for U.S. exporters by matching credit support other nations provide, ensuring that U.S. manufacturers can compete based on the price and performance features of their products. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on a Green (D-TX-29) amendment to strike bill language requiring the EPA to consider economic feasibility and costs when revising National Ambient Air Quality Standards for ozone. Rejected 174-244 on June 21, 2012 (Roll No. 395). The NAM opposed the amendment, noting that future changes to ozone rules should include consideration of the potential public health, economic and energy impacts. NAM POSITION: No.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 4480, the Domestic Energy and Jobs Act. Approved 248-163 on June 21, 2012 (Roll No. 410). The NAM supported the bill, which would: analyze EPA rules affecting the price of gasoline and diesel fuel; pause potentially harmful EPA fuel, refinery and ozone standards until a cumulative impact analysis can be completed; streamline federal permitting rules; and establish an “all-of-the-above” energy program that sets goals for energy production from all sources. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 4402, the National Strategic and Critical Minerals Production Act. Approved 256-160 on July 12, 2012 (Roll No. 468). The NAM supported the bill and its efforts to encourage the efficient development of critical minerals, including rare earth elements. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 6082, legislation amending the Administration’s five-year offshore leasing plans and significantly expanding areas in the Outer Continental Shelf available for oil/gas development. Approved 253-170 on July 25, 2012 (Roll No. 511). The NAM supported the bill, noting that its passage could substantially lower manufacturers’ energy costs and grow jobs. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 8, legislation that would: extend for one year the 2001/03 tax cuts for all individuals; maintain current estate tax rates/exemptions; and retain current tax rates on investments. Approved 256-171 on Aug. 1, 2012 (Roll No. 545). The NAM supported the bill, noting that extending the tax relief for one year would provide time for Congress to address comprehensive tax reform and, in the meantime, give manufacturers confidence to make investments necessary to create and sustain jobs. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 6429, the STEM Jobs Act. Considered under procedural rules requiring a two-thirds majority, the bill failed to advance on a vote of 257-158 on Sept. 20, 2012 (Roll No. 590). The NAM supported the bill, which would provide manufacturers increased access to well-educated foreign-born talent in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) when U.S. workers are not available. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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Vote on H.R. 3409, the Stop the War on Coal Act. Approved 233-175 on Sept. 21, 2012 (Roll No. 603). The NAM supported the bill, which seeks to limit excessive regulations from the Department of the Interior and the EPA that could decimate the U.S. coal industry, trigger thousands of job losses and diminish a reliable, available and affordable source of domestic energy. NAM POSITION: Yes.
Click Here for Key Vote Letter
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| This official's percentage on this voting record: |
100%
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| Official NAM 111th Congress House Voting Record |
| Description |
Preferred Position |
This official's vote compared with the preferred position |
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Vote on H.R. 12, the Paycheck Fairness Act, which would expose employers to unlimited damage awards and encourage more class action litigation against employers. Approved 256-163 on Jan. 9, 2009 (Roll No. 8). The NAM opposed the bill, noting that factors such as work experience and job location play a key role in compensation and that its passage would likely prompt employers to purchase additional legal liability insurance, thus increasing their costs and decreasing their ability to raise wages, increase benefits or hire new workers. NAM POSITION: No.
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Vote on Senate-passed S. 181, the Ledbetter Fair Pay Act. Approved 250-177 on Jan. 27, 2009 (Roll No. 37) and signed into law (P.L. 111-2) on Jan. 29, 2009. The NAM opposed the bill, which significantly expands employers' exposure to pay discrimination claims under civil rights laws. NAM POSITION: No.
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Vote on the Conference Report to H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Approved 246-183 on Feb. 13, 2009 (Roll No. 70) and signed into law (P.L. 111-5) on Feb. 17, 2010. The NAM supported the legislation, believing that the overall plan, while not perfect, balances tax cuts and investment and is designed to help working Americans and those who provide their jobs. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Vote on H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act. Approved 219-212 on June 26, 2009 (Roll No. 477). The NAM opposed the bill, which would regulate and add costs to all manufacturers and permit Congress to pick winners and losers through the distribution of allocations to industries. NAM POSITION: No.
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Vote on H.R. 3269, the Corporate and Financial Institution Compensation Fairness Act. Approved 237-185 on July 31, 2009 (Roll No. 686). The NAM opposed provisions in the bill that would: 1) require an annual, non-binding shareholder vote on executive compensation; and 2) grant the government authority over employee compensation for certain companies. NAM POSITION: No.
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Vote on H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act. Approved 220-215 on Nov. 7, 2009 (Roll No. 887) but never considered by the Senate. The NAM opposed the bill, which would drive up manufacturers' health care costs. NAM POSITION: No.
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Vote on H.R. 4154, the Permanent Estate Tax Relief for Families, Farmers, and Small Businesses Act. Approved 225-200 on Dec. 3, 2009 (Roll No. 929). The NAM supports efforts to repeal or significantly reform the death tax. The NAM opposed H.R. 4154, which would make permanent the high 2009 estate tax rate of 45 percent and the $3.5 million exemption. NAM POSITION: No.
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Vote on the Murphy/McMahon (D-NY)/Kratovil amendment to
H.R. 4173, the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Approved 304-124 on Dec. 10, 2009 (Roll No. 956).
The NAM supported the amendment, which would provide an exemption from costly new regulations for companies
that use over-the-counter (OTC) derivatives to manage risk, e.g., end-users. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Vote on H.R. 3590, the Senate-passed health care bill that was eventually signed into law (P.L. 111-148). Approved 219-212 on March 21, 2010 (Roll No. 165). The NAM opposed provisions in the bill that will drive up manufacturers' health care costs (excise taxes on health plans, Flexible Spending Account limits, repeal of the income exclusion for prescription drug subsidies, new industry-specific fees to pay for health care, etc.). NAM POSITION: No.
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Vote on H.R. 4872, the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act. Approved 220-211 on March 21, 2010 (Roll No. 167) and signed into law (P.L. 111-152) on March 30, 2010. The NAM opposed the bill, which will raise costs and ultimately destroy jobs via increased taxes and mandates on manufacturers. NAM POSITION: No.
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Vote on H.R. 5019, the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act. Approved 246-161 on May 6, 2010 (Roll No. 255). The NAM supported the bill, which would spur consumer demand for energy-efficient products and building materials and result in the creation of more good-paying jobs in the manufacturing sector. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Vote on H.R. 5116, the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act. Approved
262-150 on May 28, 2010 (Roll No. 332). The NAM supported the bill, which would authorize critical funding for key
manufacturing priorities, including: basic research and development; the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program; the Advanced Research Projects Administration for Energy (ARPA-E); and key science, technology,
engineering and math (STEM) education programs. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Vote on H.R. 5175, the Democracy is Strengthened by Casting Light on Spending in Elections (DISCLOSE) Act. Approved 219-206 on June 25, 2010 (Roll No. 391). The NAM opposed the bill, which would curb the First Amendment rights of many corporations to express their views about key public policies that impact economic growth and job creation. NAM POSITION: No.
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Vote on H.R. 4380, the U.S. Manufacturing Enhancement Act. Approved 378-43 on July 21, 2010 (Roll No. 456) and signed into law (P.L. 111-227) on August 11, 2010. The NAM supported the bill, which suspends U.S. tariffs on foreign inputs not produced in the United States. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Vote on H.R. 3534, the Consolidated Land, Energy, and Aquatic Resources Act. Approved 209-193 on July 30, 2010 (Roll No. 513). The NAM opposed the bill, which would remove the current law’s liability cap, forcing the vast majority of American companies out of U.S. waters and, by default, retaining the moratorium on offshore drilling. NAM POSITION: No.
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Vote on the Senate-passed version of H.R. 1586, the Education Jobs and Medicaid Assistance Act. Approved 247-161 on Aug. 10, 2010 (Roll No. 518) and signed into law (P.L. 111-226) on Aug. 10, 2010. While the NAM took no position on the bill's spending provisions, manufacturers opposed nearly $10 billion in proposed tax increases on U.S. companies with operations overseas, noting that more than half of all U.S. manufacturing employees work for these companies. NAM POSITION: No.
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Vote on H.R. 6160, the Rare Earths and Critical Materials Revitalization Act. Approved 325-98 on Sept. 29, 2010 (Roll No. 555). The NAM supported the bill, which provides loan guarantees to companies wishing to enter rare earth mineral markets and seeks to enhance competition in these markets, keeping the costs of valuable manufacturing inputs relatively stable. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Vote on H.R. 4072, the AMERICA Works Act. Approved 412-10 on Sept. 29, 2010 (Roll No. 556). The NAM supported the legislation, which would direct targeted federal workforce training dollars toward a registry of industry-recognized, nationally-portable credentials, such as the NAM-Endorsed Manufacturing Skills Certification System developed by The Manufacturing Institute. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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| Official NAM 110th Congress House Voting Record |
| Description |
Preferred Position |
This official's vote compared with the preferred position |
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Medicare Prescription Drug Price Negotiations. Vote on H.R. 4, legislation that would require the government to negotiate drug prices with pharmaceutical manufacturers on behalf of Medicare beneficiaries. Approved 255-170 on Jan. 12, 2007 (Roll No. 23). The NAM opposed the bill's one-size-fits-all solution, which could result in higher prices, fewer available drugs for retirees and less funding for R&D of new, life-saving drugs. NAM POSITION: No.
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Eliminating Secret Ballot Elections in the Workplace. Vote on H.R. 800, the so-called "Employee Free Choice Act." Approved 241-185 on March 1, 2007 (Roll No. 118). The NAM opposed the bill, which would strip away the right of American workers to vote via federally supervised, secret ballot elections when deciding to unionize. NAM POSITION: No.
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Expanding U.S. Energy Supplies. Vote on a Peterson (R-PA) amendment to the FY08 Interior spending bill that would have lifted the federal moratoria on natural gas preleasing, leasing and related activities beyond 25 miles from U.S. coastlines. Rejected 233-196 on June 26, 2007 (Roll No. 552). The NAM supported the amendment, noting that
many of our nation's energy supply needs could be addressed with environmentally safe exploration of the Outer Continental Shelf. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Increasing Discrimination Claims Against Employers. Vote on H.R. 2831, the Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, which seeks to reverse the Supreme Court's 2007 Ledbetter decision and to overhaul major civil rights laws by effectively
eliminating the time limits for filing discrimination claims against employers. Approved 225-199 on July 31, 2007 (Roll No. 768). The NAM opposed the bill, which would significantly broaden employers' exposure to pay discrimination claims under civil rights laws. NAM POSITION: No.
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Addressing the Skills Gap. Vote on the Conference Report to H.R. 2272, the America COMPETES Act, which would authorize increased funding for education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Approved 367-57 on August 2, 2007 (Roll No. 802). Signed into law (P.L. 110-69) on Aug. 9, 2007. The NAM supported the bill, which has the potential to significantly increase the availability of highly skilled employees. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Opposing Unsafe Drug Importation. Vote on a Kingston (R-GA) amendment to the FY08 Agriculture spending bill that would have removed objectionable language allowing for drug importation. Amendment rejected 283-146 on August 2, 2007 (Roll No. 806). The NAM supported the amendment and opposes the importation of potentially unsafe
prescription drugs. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Rolling Back Energy Improvements, Breaching Energy Contracts and Imposing Federal Electricity Mandates. Vote on H.R. 3221, legislation that would have: reversed key improvements in domestic energy development contained in the Energy Policy Act of 2005; breached legitimate energy contracts between companies and the U.S. government;
doubled the time it takes to get approval for offshore energy projects; and imposed a federal renewable electricity mandate. Approved 241-172 on August 4, 2007 (Roll No. 832). The NAM opposed the bill, which would have led to higher energy costs and fewer energy supplies. NAM POSITION: No.
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Increasing the Cost of Raw Materials. Vote on hardrock mining bill H.R. 2262, legislation that would impose new taxes on the mining industry, including an 8 percent royalty on new mining and a retroactive 4 percent royalty on existing mining operations. Approved 244-166 on Nov. 1, 2007 (Roll No. 1033). The NAM opposed the bill, which would increase the cost of raw materials for U.S. manufacturers, make U.S. products less competitive in global
markets and adversely affect thousands of high-paying manufacturing jobs. NAM POSITION: No.
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U.S.-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement. Vote on legislation implementing the U.S.-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement. Approved 285-132 on Nov. 8, 2007 (Roll No. 1060). Signed into law (P.L. 110-138) on Dec. 14, 2007. The NAM supported the Agreement, which would eliminate nearly all of Peru's tariffs on U.S. goods, increase protection
of American investments, strengthen U.S. intellectual property rights and reduce non-tariff and regulatory barriers in Peru. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Energy Taxes, Renewable Tax Credits and Electricity Mandates. Vote on H.R. 6, the Energy Independence and Security Act. The legislation included renewal of NAM-supported energy efficiency and renewable energy tax credits but also would have imposed an unworkable federal renewable electricity mandate and levied billions of dollars of taxes
on the domestic oil and gas industry. Approved 235-181 on Dec. 6, 2007 (Roll No. 1140). The NAM opposed the bill,
which would have resulted in higher energy costs for most manufacturers. NAM POSITION: No.
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Energy Taxes and Renewable Tax Credits. Vote on final passage of H.R. 5351, the Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act of 2008. The bill included renewal of NAM-supported energy efficiency and renewable energy
tax credits slated to expire at the end of 2008 but also included language that would have imposed billions of dollars of taxes on the domestic oil and gas industry. Approved 236-182 on Feb. 27, 2008 (Roll No. 84). The NAM opposed the bill, which would discourage new oil and gas investments in the United States and likely result in higher energy costs for U.S. manufacturers.
NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Mental Health Parity Mandates. Vote on H.R. 1424, legislation that would, among other things, mandate that
all employer health plans cover all mental illnesses and many other conditions. Approved 268-148 on March 5, 2007 (Roll No. 101). The NAM supports efforts to provide expanded mental health coverage to employees but opposed H.R. 1424, which would have significantly increased health coverage costs and restricted companies' ability to select benefits that match their workforce needs. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Delaying Vote on U.S.-Colombia Trade Agreement. Vote on H.Res. 1102, a resolution removing the U.S.-
Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement from expedited "fast track" floor consideration as required under U.S. trade law. Approved 224-195 on April 10, 2008 (Roll No. 181). The NAM opposed the resolution, arguing that removing the 90-day timetable for action would prevent timely and fair consideration of the Agreement and could undermine the ability of the
United States to enter or complete future trade agreements. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Taxing Small Businesses, S-Corps and Individuals. Vote on an amendment to the supplemental spending bill, H.R. 2642, which would have paid for expanded veterans' education benefits by levying additional taxes on individuals with incomes over $500,000 - including many S-Corporations. Approved 256-166 on May 15, 2008 (Roll No. 330). The NAM opposed the amendment, noting that expanded veterans' benefits should not be paid for by the small businesses most
responsible for creating jobs and growing the economy. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Discriminating Against Foreign-Owned Companies. Vote on H.R. 6275, legislation that would force foreign-owned companies and oil/gas producers to pay for Alternative Minimum Tax relief for individuals. Approved 233-189 on June 25, 2008 (Roll No. 455). The NAM opposed revenue raisers in the bill that would levy discriminatory taxes on foreign-owned companies in the U.S. and on major oil and gas companies. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Funding for Highway Infrastructure Projects. Vote on H.R. 6532, legislation that would shift $8 billion from the General Treasury to the Highway Trust Fund (HTF). Approved 387-37 on July 23, 2008 (Roll No. 518). The NAM supported the bill, noting that unless the HTF is adequately funded, critical infrastructure upgrades will be delayed and manufacturers will be adversely affected in terms of shipping delays, costs and competitiveness. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Eliminating Caps on Punitive Damages/Paycheck Fairness. Vote on H.R. 1338, the so-called "Paycheck Fairness Act," which would: expose employers to unlimited damage awards and encourage more class action litigation against employers. Approved 247-178 on July 31, 2008 (Roll No. 556). The NAM opposed the bill, noting that factors such as work location and experience play a key role in compensation, and the government's intervention would result in a confused set of constantly changing standards and prolonged litigation over employer compensation practices. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Energy Taxes, Electricity Mandates and Inadequate Energy Development. Vote on H.R. 6899, the Comprehensive American Energy Security and Consumer Protection Act. Approved 236-189 on Sept. 16, 2008 (Roll No. 599). The NAM opposed the bill, which included billions of dollars in higher taxes on energy companies, a mandatory renewable
portfolio standard and energy development language that contained insufficient incentives for coastal states to sanction drilling off their shores. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Combating Counterfeiting. Vote on S. 3325, the Prioritizing Resources and Organization for Intellectual Property
(PRO-IP) Act. The bill would improve the coordination of federal government resources aimed at combating domestic
and international counterfeiting. Approved 381-41 on Sept. 28, 2008 (Roll No. 664). Signed into law (P.L. 110-403) on Oct. 13, 2008. The NAM supported the bill, noting that intellectual property (IP) theft is responsible for more than $250 billion a year in lost sales and the loss of a significant number of high-paying manufacturing jobs. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Emergency Economic Stabilization Act (EESA). Vote on the Senate-passed version of the EESA. Approved 263-171
on Oct. 3, 2008 (Roll No. 681). Signed into law (P.L. 110-343) on Oct. 3, 2008. The NAM supported the Legislation, which included reforms and financial assistance aimed at bringing stability to and restored confidence in the U.S. financial system. It also contained key NAM-supported tax provisions, including a two-year seemless extension of the R&D credit; an extension of deferral of U.S. tax on active business global financing income; an extension of look-through rules; and extensions of incentives
promoting energy efficiency and the development of renewable and alternative energy sources. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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| This official's percentage on this voting record: |
80%
|
Official NAM 109th Congress House Voting Record
Lawmakers scoring 70 percent or higher on Key Manufacturing Votes in the 109th Congress receive the NAM Award for Manufacturing Legislative Excellence. |
| Description |
Preferred Position |
This official's vote compared with the preferred position |
|
Class Action Reform (S. 5) Vote on S. 5, the Class Action Fairness Act. Approved 279-149 on Feb. 17, 2005 (Roll No. 38). The NAM supported the bill, which would curb trial lawyer "forum shopping" by shifting most class actions to federal courts, without altering plaintiffs' right to sue. Signed into law (P.L. 109-2) on Feb. 18, 2005. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Death Tax Repeal Permanency Act (H.R. 8)
Vote on H.R. 8, the Death Tax Repeal Permanency Act of 2005, to make the repeal of the estate (death) tax permanent. Approved 272-162 on April 13, 2005 (Roll No. 102). Unless the death tax repeal is made permanent, the current estate tax system and estate tax rates faced by small business owners will resurface in 2011, resulting in more complexity and confusion for small businesses and increased planning costs. The NAM supported the bill, as large estate tax bills force the sale of many small manufacturing companies upon the owner's death. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Arbitrary Fuel-Efficiency Standards (Boehlert/Markey Amendment to H.R. 6)
Vote on a Boehlert (R-NY)/Markey (D-MA) amendment to energy bill H.R. 6 that would have directed the Secretary of Transportation to arbitrarily increase corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards from 25 miles/gallon to 33 miles/gallon over 10 years. Rejected 254-177 on April 20, 2005 (Roll No. 121). The NAM opposed the amendment, as tougher standards could force automakers to develop smaller, lighter SUVs and trucks that would be less safe and more expensive than existing, popular models. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Liquefied Natural Gas Supplies (Castle Amendment to H.R. 6)
Vote on a Castle (R-DE) amendment to the energy bill that would have deleted language granting the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission primary authority for siting liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities. The amendment would have retained the status quo, allowing states to block FERC siting decisions. Rejected 237-194 on April 21, 2005 (Roll No. 131). The NAM opposed the amendment, noting that to keep pace with growing demand, new gas supply options from multiple sources are needed, including the importation of LNG. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Comprehensive Energy Policy (Final Passage -- H.R. 6)
Vote on H.R. 6, the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Approved 249-183 on April 21, 2005 (Roll No. 132). The legislation represents a major step toward achieving a long-term national energy policy that encourages voluntary energy efficiency initiatives, voluntary conservation, improvements to the energy infrastructure and increases in the supply of all sources of cost-effective renewable, alternative and conventional energy sources. Signed into law (P.L. 109-58) on Aug. 8, 2005. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Withdrawing U.S. Membership in the World Trade Organization (H.J. Res. 27)
Vote on H..J. Res. 27, a resolution to withdraw the approval of the United States from the Agreement establishing the World Trade Organization. Rejected 338-86 (with 1 voting "present") on June 9, 2005 (Roll No. 239). The NAM opposed the resolution, noting that the United States, as the world’s largest trading nation, needs the rules-based trading system in order to continue leveling the playing field and obtaining the gains from trade for the United States and the rest of the world. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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OSHA Legal Issues, Review Commission Reform (H.R. 741)
Vote on legislation providing for an independent review of citations issued by OSHA. Approved 226-197 on July 12, 2005 (Roll No. 371). The NAM supported the bill, which would help companies challenging OSHA citations by ensuring that the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission ("the Court") -- and not OSHA ("the prosecutor") -- would be the party that interprets the law and provides an independent review of OSHA citations. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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OSHA Legal Issues, Attorneys' Fees (H.R. 742)
Vote on a bill that would make it easier for small employers to recover attorneys' fees when they successfully defend against an OSHA citation. Approved 235-187 on July 12, 2005 (Roll No. 372). NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Association Health Plans (H.R. 525)
Vote on H.R. 525, legislation that would allow small businesses to band together through bona fide trade associations and obtain quality health care at a lower cost by taking advantage of the same economies of scale, flexibility, bargaining clout and administrative efficiency that larger companies and unions enjoy under the ERISA law. Approved 263-165 on July 26, 2005 (Roll No. 426). NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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United States Trade Rights Enforcement Act (H.R. 3283)
Vote on the U.S. Trade Rights Enforcement Act. Approved 255-168 on July 27, 2005 (Roll No. 437). The NAM supported H.R. 3283, which would help protect and enforce U.S. trade rules that are established through free trade agreements and the World Trade Organization. It specifically authorizes the application of U.S. countervailing duty (CVD) law to exports from non-market economies, such as China, and would establish a system of comprehensive monitoring of Chinese compliance with its trade obligations on intellectual property rights and market access. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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CAFTA-DR: Central America- Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (H.R. 3045)
Vote on legislation that would implement the Central American-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) into U.S. law. Approved 217-215 on July 27, 2005 (Roll No. 443). The NAM supported CAFTA-DR, which is likely to result in $1 billion per year in increased U.S. manufactured exports and more U.S. jobs. Signed into law on August 2, 2005 (P.L. 109-53). NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Medical Liability Reform (H.R. 5)
Vote on H.R. 5, legislation to help make health coverage more affordable for millions of Americans by reducing the additional cost that all forms of medical liability litigation adds to health coverage costs. Approved 230-194 on July 28, 2005 (Roll No. 449). The NAM has long championed medical liability reform because of the downstream consequences for higher health care costs from unlimited damage awards, liability insurance, and defensive medicine. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Bolstering Energy Supplies and Refinery Capacity (H.R. 3893)
Vote on H.R. 3893, legislation that would help increase refinery capacity and assure delivery of much needed energy supplies throughout the country. Approved 212-210 on Oct. 7, 2005 (Roll No. 519). The NAM supported the bill, noting that it would address fuel supply shortages caused by federal permitting and other policies. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Preventing Frivolous Litigation Against the Food Industry (H.R. 554)
Vote on H.R. 554, legislation that would bar lawsuits based on claims of obesity except in limited circumstances (such as violation of law or regulation, breach of warranty or if the food was adulterated). Approved 306-120 on October 19, 2005 (Roll No. 533). The NAM supported the bill, noting that the current "regulation through litigation" threatens all businesses because it is designed to circumvent the democratic process and to pursue social goals with respect to a specific industry through judicial fiat. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Discouraging Regulation Through Litigation (S. 397)
Vote on S. 397, the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act. Approved 283-144 on October 20, 2005 (Roll No. 534). The NAM supported the bill, which would forestall lawsuits brought with the intent of shutting down a legitimate and legal industry, while allowing those with merit to proceed. Signed into law (P.L. 109-92) on Oct. 26, 2005. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Lawsuit Abuse Reduction Act (Final Passage). Vote on H.R. 420, the Lawsuit Abuse Reduction Act, which would restore disincentives for filing frivolous lawsuits under Rule 11 (the federal court rule governing frivolous lawsuits) by making sanctions mandatory, requiring prevailing parties to be awarded reasonable expenses and attorney’s fees, etc. It would also expand Rule 11 to include discovery and take steps to limit forum shopping. Approved 228-184 on Oct. 27, 2005 (Roll No. 553). NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Tax Relief (H.R. 4297). Vote on H.R. 4297, legislation that would provide key incentives to bolster U.S. manufacturing investment and job growth. Key provisions would: include a one-year extension of the R&D credit, with modifications; extend lower rates on capital gains and dividends; extend deferral for active financing income earned overseas; and more. Approved 234-197 on Dec. 7, 2005 (Roll No. 621). NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Weakening National Uniformity for Food Act (Capps Amendment to H.R. 4167). Vote on a Capps (D-CA) amendment to food labeling bill H.R. 4167 that would have stripped key uniformity requirements from the bill and undermined the bill’s overall intent. Rejected 259-161 on March 8, 2006 (Roll No. 29). The NAM opposed the amendment and supported the underlying bill, noting that varying state standards now in place hinder the free and efficient flow of goods. NAM Position: No.
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N |
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Energy Exploration in ANWR (H.R. 5429). Vote on legislation that would permit the leasing of portions of ANWR for exploration of oil and natural gas. The NAM has long supported repealing the prohibition of environmentally-sensitive exploration of ANWR. Approved 225-201 on May 25, 2006 (Roll No. 209). NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Federal Regulation of the Internet (Net Neutrality Amendment to H.R. 5252). Vote on a Markey (D-MA) amendment to telecommunications bill H.R. 5252 that, under the guise of "net neutrality," would have imposed burdensome new rules and undercut the fundamental free market, pro-investment purpose of the bill. Rejected 269-152 on June 8, 2006 (Roll No. 239). NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Line Item Veto (H.R. 4890). Vote on H.R. 4890, legislation that would give the President and Congress another tool to rein in excessive federal spending -- the line item veto. Approved 247-172 on June 22, 2006 (Roll No. 317). NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Energy Development in the Outer Continental Shelf (H.R. 4761). Vote on H.R. 4761, legislation that would permit energy development in deep waters beyond 100 miles from the coast and allow coastal states to determine whether to permit offshore production beyond 50 miles of their coastline. Approved 232-187 on June 29, 2006 (Roll No. 356). The NAM supported the bill, which would help reduce our reliance on foreign oil and create hundreds of thousands of jobs in the U.S. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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U.S.-Oman Free Trade Agreement (H.R. 5684). Vote on H.R. 5684, legislation implementing the U.S.-Oman Free Trade Agreement. Approved 221-205 on July 20, 2006 (Roll No. 392). The NAM supported the bill and the FTA, which would require all U.S.-made consumer and industrial products to enter Oman duty-free, gaining even greater market share for U.S. manufacturers. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Health Information Technology (H.R. 4157). Vote on legislation that would establish a national strategy for facilitating health IT, which along with value-based purchasing incentives, could help drive higher quality care, increased efficiency, promote interoperability and ultimately lead to more affordable health care. Approved 270-148 on July 27, 2006 (Roll No. 416). The NAM believes the best solutions on health IT will come from the private sector, but H.R. 4157 could facilitate those solutions. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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| This official's percentage on this voting record: |
96%
|
| Official NAM 108th Congress House Voting Record |
| Description |
Preferred Position |
This official's vote compared with the preferred position |
|
1) Medical Liability Reform. Vote on H.R. 5, legislation to help make health coverage more affordable for millions of Americans by addressing all forms of medical liability (malpractice, plan coverage decisions, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, etc.). Approved 229-196 on March 13, 2003 (Roll No. 64). The NAM has long championed medical liability reform because of the downstream consequences for higher health care costs from unlimited damage awards, liability insurance, and defensive medicine. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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2) Budget Resolution Allowing for Tax Cuts. Vote on H.Con. Res. 95, the House FY 2004 budget resolution. Approved 215-212 on March 21, 2003 (Roll No. 82). The NAM supported the resolution, especially provisions allowing for enactment of a $726 billion, 10-year economic growth package, which would help jump start the current economic recovery and provide a sound foundation for continued economic growth. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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3) Opposing Arbitrary Fuel-Efficiency Standards. Vote on a Boehlert (R-NY)/Markey (D-MA) amendment that would have arbitrarily raised corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards for all cars and light trucks, requiring all vehicles to consume 5 percent less oil in 2010 than if CAFE standards were to remain at 2004 levels. Rejected 268-162 on April 10, 2003 (Roll No. 132). The NAM opposed the amendment, as tougher standards could force automakers to develop smaller, lighter SUVs and trucks that would be less safe and more expensive than existing, popular models. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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4) Prohibiting Oil/Gas Development in ANWR. Vote on a Markey (D-MA)/Johnson (R-CT) amendment to energy bill H.R. 6 that would have retained the current prohibition on oil/gas exploration in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). Rejected 228-197 on April 10, 2003 (Roll No. 135). The NAM opposed the amendment and believes environmentally sound oil/gas exploration in ANWR is an important part of addressing our nation's energy supply needs. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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5) Economic Growth, Tax Cuts. Vote on H.R. 2, a $550 billion package providing tax relief to investors, businesses and individuals. Key provisions expedited personal rate cuts, lowered the rates on dividend and capital-gains income, temporarily enhanced expensing provisions for small businesses, improved net operating loss carry-back policy, etc. Approved 222-203 on May 9, 2003 (Roll No. 182). The NAM supported the core components of the package. Signed into law (P.L. 108-27) on May 28, 2003. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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6) Class Action Reform. Vote on H.R. 1115, legislation aimed at curbing the explosion of frivolous class-action lawsuits. Approved 253-170 on June 12, 2003 (Roll No. 272). The NAM supported the bill, which would curb trial lawyer "forum shopping" by shifting most major class actions to federal courts, without altering plaintiffs' right to sue. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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7) Permanently Repealing the Death Tax. Vote on H.R. 8 (Dunn--R-WA), legislation to make repeal of the estate (death) tax permanent. Unless the death tax repeal is made permanent, the current estate tax system and estate tax rates faced by small business owners will resurface in 2011, resulting in more complexity and confusion for small businesses and increased planning costs. Approved 264-163 on June 18, 2003 (Roll No. 288). The NAM supported the bill, as large estate tax bills force the sale of many small manufacturing companies upon the owner’s death. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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8) Prohibiting Improvements To Overtime Regulations. Vote on an Obey (D-WI) amendment to the FY 2004 Labor/HHS appropriations bill. The amendment sought to prohibit funding needed to update Labor Department regulations originally crafted in 1949 related to the definition of "exempt" and "non-exempt" workers under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Rejected 213-210 on July 10, 2003 (Roll No. 351). The NAM opposed the amendment, believing there is a need for clarifying and revising these outdated regulations to reflect the changes in the workplace over the last half century. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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9) U.S.-Singapore Free Trade Agreement. Vote on H.R. 2739, legislation implementing the U.S.-Singapore Free Trade Agreement. Approved 272-155 on July 24, 2003 (Roll No. 432). NAM members supported the accord, which sets a valuable precedent for future FTAs with the developing countries of Southeast Asia, where U.S. manufactured exports face average bound tariff rates of 30 percent. Signed into law (P.L. 108-78) on Sept. 3, 2003. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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10) U.S.-Chile Free Trade Agreement. Vote on H.R. 2738, legislation implementing the U.S.-Chile Free Trade Agreement. Approved 270-156 on July 24, 2003 (Roll No. 436). The NAM supported the accord, which eliminates nearly all tariffs on U.S. manufactured exports upon implementation and provides the framework for a successful Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) accord. Signed into law (P.L. 108-77) on Sept. 3, 2003. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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11) Pharmaceutical Market Access Act. Vote on H.R. 2427, a bill to authorize the importation of prescription drugs from Canada and other industrialized nations. Approved 243-186 on July 25, 2003 (Roll No. 445). The NAM opposed the bill, which would also remove the requirement that the HHS Secretary approve re-importation based on safety and cost-effectiveness, thus exposing consumers to potential harm from counterfeit, adulterated or sham medications. In addition, this legislation would tie U.S. drug prices to those in other countries, in effect importing foreign price controls. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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12) Prohibiting an Inventory of U.S. Coastal Energy Sources. Vote on a Capps (D-CA) "motion to instruct conferees" on energy bill H.R. 6. Motion urged the House to reject a Senate provision that called for an oil/gas inventory and analysis of energy resources in the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). Approved 229-182 on Oct. 15, 2003 (Roll No. 540). The NAM supported the OCS inventory and opposed the motion to instruct, believing that Congress, the Executive Branch, states and the public must have reliable data upon which to make informed decisions, especially given the nation's serious energy supply problems. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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13) Medicare Reform. Vote on the conference report to Medicare reform bill H.R. 1. Approved 220-215 on Nov. 22, 2003 (Roll No. 669). The NAM supported the conference agreement, which provides affordable prescription drug coverage, immediate cost savings and greater choice to Medicare beneficiaries and flexible assistance to employers who currently provide retiree health coverage. Signed into law (P.L. 108-173) on Dec. 8, 2003. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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14) Preventing Frivolous Litigation Against the Food Industry. Vote on H.R. 339, legislation that would bar lawsuits based on claims of obesity except in limited circumstances. Approved 276-139 on March 10, 2004 (Roll No. 54). The NAM supported the bill, noting that such "regulation by litigation" threatens all businesses because it is designed to circumvent the democratic process and to pursue social goals with respect to a specific industry through judicial fiat. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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15) Pension Funding -- Treasury Fix. Vote on the conference report to H.R. 3108, legislation replacing the now defunct 30-year Treasury interest rate used for pension calculations with a composite rate of high-quality, long-term corporate bond indices for two years. Approved 336-69 on April 2, 2004 (Roll No. 117). The NAM supported the legislation, noting that failure to rectify the problem could impede our nation's emerging economic recovery and threaten the retirement security of millions of American workers. Signed into law (P.L. 108-218) on April 10, 2004. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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16) Health Care: Flexible Spending Accounts. Vote on H.R. 4279, legislation that would allow employees to roll over unused flexible spending account (FSA) funds either into a Health Savings Account or back into their FSAs. (These funds currently revert back to the employer if unspent.) Approved 273-152 on May 12, 2004 (Roll No. 163). NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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17) Association Health Plans. Vote on H.R. 4281, legislation that would allow small businesses to band together through bona fide trade associations and obtain quality health care at a lower cost by taking advantage of the same economies of scale, flexibility, bargaining clout, and administrative efficiency that larger companies and unions enjoy under the ERISA law. Approved 252-162 on May 13, 2004 (Roll No. 174). NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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18) OSHA Legal Issues, Review Commission Reform. Vote on H.R. 2730, as amended, legislation providing for an independent review of citations issued by OSHA. Approved 224-204 on May 18, 2004 (Roll No. 185). The NAM supported the bill, which would help companies challenging OSHA citations by ensuring that the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission ("the Court") -- and not OSHA ("the prosecutor") -- would be the party that interprets the law and provides an independent review of OSHA citations. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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19) OSHA Legal Issues, Attorneys' Fees. Vote on H.R. 2731, a bill that would make it easier for small employers to recover attorneys' fees when they successfully defend against an OSHA citation. Approved 233-194 on May 18, 2004 (Roll No. 189). NAM POSITION: Yes
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Y |
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20) FSC/ETI: American Jobs Creation Act. Vote on H.R. 4520, legislation that would address the FSC/ETI dispute and allow the U.S. to comply with our international obligations. Approved 251-178 on June 17, 2004 (Roll No. 259). The NAM supported the bill, which would reduce the corporate tax rate on domestic manufacturing income; make key international tax reforms; provide relief from the corporate alternative minimum tax; offer a temporary incentive for companies to invest foreign profits in the U.S.; seamlessly extend the R&D credit; expand expensing for small businesses; and more. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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21) United States-Australia Free Trade Agreement. Vote on H.R. 4579, legislation that would implement the U.S.-Australia Free Trade Agreement into U.S. law. Approved 314-109 on July 14, 2004 (Roll No. 375). The NAM supported the legislation and the FTA, which is likely to result in $1.8 billion per year in increased U.S. manufactured exports and more U.S. jobs. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Curbing Lawsuit Abuse (H.R. 4571)
Vote on H.R. 4571, the Lawsuit Abuse Reduction Act of 2004, which would restore disincentives for filing frivolous lawsuits under Rule 11 (the federal court rule governing frivolous lawsuits) by making sanctions mandatory, requiring prevailing parties to be awarded reasonable expenses and attorney’s fees, etc. It would also expand Rule 11 to include discovery and has a provision to limit forum shopping. Approved 229-174 on Sept. 14, 2004 (Roll No. 450). NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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| This official's percentage on this voting record: |
86%
|
| Official NAM 107th Congress House Voting Record |
| Description |
Preferred Position |
This official's vote compared with the preferred position |
|
Rejecting OSHA's Ergonomics Regulation (S.J. Res. 6). Vote on S.J. Res. 6, a joint resolution of disapproving OSHA's ergonomics regulation. Approved 223-206 on March 7, 2000 (Roll No. 33), clearing the measure for the President. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Repealing the Death Tax (H.R. 8). Vote on H.R. 8, legislation phasing out estate and gift taxes over a 10-year period. Estate tax rates as high as 55 percent force the sale of many family-owned small manufacturing firms. Approved 274-154 (Roll No. 84) on April 4, 2001. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Budget Resolution (Conference Report to H.Con. Res. 83). Vote on the conference report to H.Con. Res. 83, the non-binding FY 2002 budget resolution, which includes: $1.35 trillion in tax cuts through FY 2011; and discretionary spending limits of $661.3 billion. Approved 221-207 on May 9, 2001 (Roll No. 104). NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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National Testing (Hoekstra Amendment to H.R. 1). Vote on a Hoekstra (R-MI)/Frank (D-MA) amendment that would strip annual testing provisions from education bill H.R. 1. Rejected 236-191 on May 23, 2001 (Roll No. 130). The NAM supported H.R. 1 but opposed the Hoekstra amendment, since testing is a measurable means of holding schools and educators accountable. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Tax Cuts (Conference Report to H.R. 1836) Vote on the conference report to H.R. 1836, legislation implementing over an 11-year period: across-the-board reductions in individual tax rates at all levels, an immediate economic stimulus plan, and an end to the death tax. Vote was 240-154 on May 26, 2001 (Roll No. 149). NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Disapproving Normal Trade with China (H.J. Res. 50) Vote on a resolution of disapproval seeking to discontinue normal trade relations (NTR) with China, triggering major tariff increases on Chinese imports and inviting retaliation against U.S. exports to China. Rejected 259-169 on July 19, 2001 (Roll No. 255). NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Mandating Fuel Efficiency Standard Increases (Boehlert Amendment to H.R. 4) Vote on a Boehlert (R-NY) amendment to energy bill H.R. 4 that would have required significant increases in Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) standards for light trucks (from 20.7 to 27.5 mpg by 2007). Rejected 269-160 on August 1, 2001 (Roll No. 311). The NAM opposed the amendment, as tougher standards could force automakers to develop smaller, lighter SUVs and trucks that would be less safe and more expensive than existing, popular models. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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ANWR Drilling Ban (Markey Amendment to H.R. 4) Vote on a Markey (D-MA) amendment to energy bill H.R. 4 that would have retained the current prohibition on oil/gas drilling in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). H.R. 4 would limit drilling to 2,000 acres (out of nearly 20 million acres) in ANWR. Rejected 223-206 on August 1, 2001 (Roll No. 317). The NAM opposed the amendment and supports environmentally safe oil/gas exploration in ANWR. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Health Care (Norwood Liability Amendment to H.R. 2563) Vote on a Norwood (R-GA) substitute amendment that would place caps on non-economic damages at $1.5 million and punitive damages at $1.5 million. Approved 218-213 on August 2, 2001 (Roll No. 329). The NAM supported the amendment as a means of substantially improving the ill-advised Ganske-Dingell patients' bill of rights proposal. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
|
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Terrorism Insurance (H.R. 3210)
Vote on H.R. 3210, legislation providing federal loans to cover 90 percent of terrorism-loss claims totaling more than $1 billion. Approved 227-193 on November 29, 2001 (Roll No. 464). The NAM supported the bill, as the inability of U.S. businesses to obtain insurance coverage for losses from acts of terrorism poses a serious threat to the economy. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
|
|
Trade Promotion Authority (H.R. 3005)
Vote on H.R. 3005, legislation renewing trade promotion (formerly fast track) authority. Approved 215-214 on December 6, 2001 (Roll No. 481). The NAM supported the legislation, which is critical in prying open foreign export markets and concluding major trade agreements. NAM POSITION: Yes.
|
Y |
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Campaign Finance (Shays-Meehan Substitute to H.R. 2356) Vote on a Shays (R-CT)/Meehan (D-MA) substitute to campaign finance bill H.R. 2356. Substitute would ban "soft money" contributions beginning Nov. 6, 2002; prohibit issue advocacy ads within 60 days of a general election; and more. Approved 240-191 on February 13, 2002 (Roll No. 21). The NAM opposed the substitute, which undermines organizations' First Amendment rights to be involved in the political process. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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|
Economic Stimulus/Unemployment Benefits (H.R. 622)
Vote on House economic-stimulus amendments to a Senate-passed bill extending unemployment benefits for 13 weeks. Approved 225-199 on February 14, 2002 (Roll No. 38). The NAM supported the House amendments, which included NAM-supported incentives to generate investment and economic activity, such as corporate alternative minimum tax reforms, 30 percent bonus depreciation, accelerated individual tax-rate cuts and tax relief for lower-wage workers. NAM POSITION: Yes.
|
Y |
|
|
Class Action Reform (H.R. 2341)
Vote on H.R. 2341, legislation aimed at curbing the explosion of frivolous class-action suits. Approved 233-190 on March 13, 2002 (Roll No. 62). The NAM supported the bill, which would shift most major class-action suits to federal courts and curb trial lawyer "forum shopping" without altering plaintiffs' rights to sue. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Pension Law Changes (Miller Substitute Amendment to H.R. 3762) Vote on the Miller (D-CA) substitute to pension bill H.R. 3762. Rejected 232-187 on April 11, 2002 (Roll No. 90). The NAM opposed the amendment, offered in the wake of the Enron collapse, which could have driven many employers from the private retirement system by significantly expanding the liability of employers who sponsor employee benefit plans. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
|
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Making Tax Cuts Permanent (H.R. 586)
Vote on a Thomas (R-CA) motion to concur with Senate amendments to H.R. 586, permanently extending the tax cuts enacted in the 2001 Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act, including death tax repeal, and tax rate cuts for individuals and some small businesses. The tax cuts are due to expire at the end of 2010. Approved 229-198 on April 18, 2002 (Roll No. 103). NAM POSITION: Yes.
|
Y |
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Securing a Safe, Secure Repository for Spent Nuclear Fuel (H.J. Res. 87)
Vote on H.J. Res. 87, legislation approving the site at Yucca Mountain, Nevada, for the development of a repository for the disposal of spent nuclear fuel. Approved 306-117 on May 8, 2002 (Roll No. 133). The NAM supported the legislation, noting that after 20 years of study, the science is clear that Yucca Mountain is a safe, secure and suitable repository. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
|
|
Permanently Repealing the Death Tax (H.R. 2143) Vote on H.R. 2143, legislation permanently repealing the death tax. Approved 256-171 on June 6, 2002 (Roll No. 219). The NAM supported the amendment, as estate tax rates as high as 55 percent force the sale of many small manufacturing companies upon the owner’s death. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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|
Medicare/Prescription Drugs (H.R. 4954) Vote on H.R. 4954, legislation to expand the availability of affordable prescription drugs for seniors. Approved 221-208 on June 28, 2002 (Roll No. 282). The NAM supported the measure, which relies on some of the same means employers use to manage their drug benefits and would take steps toward making Medicare more closely resemble the private sector. The bill would add a Part D drug benefit for beneficiaries; take steps toward comprehensive Medicare reform by providing for an enhanced and unified Medicare fee for service benefit (Medicare Part E); and make additional programmatic changes to strengthen the Medicare and Medicare +Choice programs. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
|
|
Trade Promotion Authority (Conference Report to H.R. 3009) Vote on the conference report to H.R. 3009, which renews Trade Promotion Authority for five years, extends the Andean Trade Preference Act, expands the Trade Adjustment Assistance program, renews Generalized System of Preferences, and more. Approved 215-212 on July 27, 2002 (Roll No. 370). NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
|
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Medical Liability Reform (H.R. 4600). Vote on H.R. 4600, legislation advocating reforms (caps on damage awards and attorneys' fees, proportional liability, unifrom statute of limitations, etc.) to stabilize the out-of-control medical liability system while ensuring that injured patients are fairly compensated. Approved 217-203 on Sept. 26, 2002 (Roll No. 421). NAM Position: Yes.
|
Y |
|
| This official's percentage on this voting record: |
81%
|
| Symbol Key: |
|
Voted with the preferred
position |
|
Voted against the preferred
position |
| Y |
Voted YES |
N |
Voted NO |
| - |
Did Not Vote |
A |
Absent |
| T |
Paired Vote |
Z |
Presiding |
| P |
Voted PRESENT |
|
|
Other Ratings:
(show fewer ratings)
What do these ratings mean?
 |
| AFL-CIO, 2011: |
 (39%) |
| AFL-CIO, 2009: |
| (40%) |
| AFL-CIO, 2008: |
| (67%) |
| AFL-CIO, 2006: |
| (37%) |
| AFL-CIO, 2004: |
| (33%) |
| American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, 2010: |
| (0%) |
| American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, 2007: |
| (36%) |
| American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, 2006: |
| (19%) |
| League of Conservation Voters, 2011: |
| (17%) |
| League of Conservation Voters, 2010: |
| (40%) |
| League of Conservation Voters, 2008: |
| (38%) |
| League of Conservation Voters, 2007: |
| (20%) |
| League of Conservation Voters, 2006: |
| (20%) |
| League of Conservation Voters, 2004: |
| (25%) |
| Public Citizens Congress Watch, 2006: |
| (12%) |
| Service Employees International Union, 2011: |
| (11%) |
| Service Employees International Union, 2010: |
| (10%) |
| Service Employees International Union, 2008: |
| (66%) |
| Service Employees International Union, 2007: |
| (52%) |
| Service Employees International Union, 2006: |
| (30%) |
| United Auto Workers, 2010: |
| (14%) |
| United Auto Workers, 2010: |
| (14%) |
| United Auto Workers, 2008: |
| (50%) |
| United Auto Workers, 2006: |
| (23%) |
| Associated General Contractors, 2011: |
| (100%) |
| Associated General Contractors, 2010: |
| (87%) |
| Associated General Contractors, 2008: |
| (87%) |
| Associated General Contractors, 2006: |
| (80%) |
| BIPAC, 2011: |
| (94%) |
| BIPAC, 2010: |
| (86%) |
| BIPAC, 2008: |
| (85%) |
| BIPAC, 2006: |
| (93%) |
| BIPAC, 2003: |
| (91%) |
| BIPAC, 2002: |
| (77%) |
| National Association of Manufacturers, 2011: |
| (100%) |
| National Association of Manufacturers, 2010: |
| (89%) |
| National Association of Manufacturers, 2008: |
| (80%) |
| National Association of Manufacturers, 2006: |
| (96%) |
| National Association of Manufacturers, 2004: |
| (85%) |
| National Association of Manufacturers, 2002: |
| (81%) |
| National Federation of Independent Business, 2010: |
| (86%) |
| National Federation of Independent Business, 2010: |
| (86%) |
| National Federation of Independent Business, 2008: |
| (90%) |
| National Federation of Independent Business, 2006: |
| (93%) |
| National Retail Federation, 2011: |
| (100%) |
| National Small Business Association, 2011: |
| (66%) |
| National Small Business Association, 2010: |
| (100%) |
| National Small Business Association, 2010: |
| (27%) |
| National Small Business Association, 2008: |
| (60%) |
| National Small Business Association, 2006: |
| (88%) |
| U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 2010: |
| (100%) |
| U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 2009: |
| (93%) |
| U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 2007: |
| (90%) |
| U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 2006: |
| (85%) |
| U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 2004: |
| (87%) |
 |
 West Virginia Congressional District 2&s=WV &l=english)
|
