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Biography:
Born in Medford, Oregon on September 27, 1947; BA, Chemistry, Willamette University, 1975; MD, Health Sciences Center, University of Oregon, 1979; JD, University of Arkansas, Little Rock, 1988; Volunteer, Medical Missions, Honduras, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Thailand; Corporal, United States Marine Corps, Vietnam, 1967-1969; Family Practice Resident, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 1979-1982; Family Practice Physician, 1982-1991; Senator, Arkansas State Senate, 1991-1996; Elected as a Democrat to the United States House of Representatives (1996-Present).
| 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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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| This official's percentage on this voting record: |
26%
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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 |
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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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| This official's percentage on this voting record: |
22%
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| Official NAM 108th Congress House Voting Record |
| Description |
Preferred Position |
This official's vote compared with the preferred position |
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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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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: |
35%
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| 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 |
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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.
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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.
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Y |
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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.
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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 |
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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 |
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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.
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Y |
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| This official's percentage on this voting record: |
29%
|
| Official NAM 106th Congress House Voting Record |
| Description |
Preferred Position |
This official's vote compared with the preferred position |
|
Vote on a Boehlert (R-NY) amendment to NAM-backed H.R. 350, legislation aimed at curbing major federal unfunded mandates on the private sector. Amendment would have eliminated provisions in H.R. 350 allowing lawmakers to request an up-or-down floor vote on such mandates. Rejected 216-210 on February 10, 1999 (Roll No. 15). H.R. 350 was subsequently approved. NAM Position: No.
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N |
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Vote on the conference report to the non-binding FY 2000 budget resolution setting budgetary levels through FY 2009. Included provisions to cut taxes and the national debt while preserving 100 percent of the Social Security trust fund. Approved 220-208 on April 14, 1999 (Roll No. 85). NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote on H.R. 775, Davis (R-VA)/Moran (D-VA) legislation establishing reasonable federal liability standards for Y2K litigation. Approved 236-190 on May 12, 1999 (Roll No. 128). Signed into law (P.L. 106-37) on July 20, 1999. NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote on H.R. 2488, legislation to cut taxes by $792 billion over 10 years. The bill contained many manufacturing tax priorities, including: a five-year extension of the R&D tax credit; reform of the corporate alternative minimum tax; a decrease in teh top S-corp rate; simplification of key international tax provisions; a phased-out repeal of the death tax; and more. Approved 223-208 on July 22, 1999 (Roll No. 333). Vetoed September 23, 1999. NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote on H.R. 1074, Bliley (R-VA) regulatory right-to-know legislation requiring an annual Office of Management and Budget report providing government-wide accounting of the costs and benefits of federal regulations. Approved 254-157 on July 26, 1999 (Roll No. 336). NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote on a "resolution of disapproval" seeking to discontinue China's normal trade relations (NTR) status, triggering major tariff increases on Chinese imports and inviting retaliation against U.S. exports to China. Rejected 260-170 on July 27, 1999 (Roll No. 338). NAM Position: No.
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N |
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Vote on H.R. 987, a Blunt (R-MO) bill to prevent OSHA from issuing a final ergonomics rule until a congressionally funded, peer-reviewed study of the issue under way at the National Academy of Sciences has been completed. Approved 217-209 on August 3, 1999 (Roll No. 366). NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 1907, a Coble (R-NC) bill to curb patent manipulations, reduce litigation, cut the backlog of cases at the Patent & Trademark Office and modernize the patent system. Approved 376-43, exceeding teh two-thirds majority required under suspension of the rules, on August 3, 1999 (Roll No. 368). NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote on H.R. 417, the Shays (R-CT)/Meehan (D-MA) campaign finance bill, which would have banned soft-money contributions to political parties and significantly infringed on the free speech rights of Americans. Approved 252-177 on September 14, 1999 (Roll No. 422). NAM Position: No.
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N |
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Vote on H.R. 1875, a Goodlatte (R-VA) bill to limit "forum shopping" and shift most major class actions to federal court if they involve foreign or interstate commerce; $1 million or more; and 100 or more plaintiffs. Approved 222-207 on September 29, 1999 (Roll No. 443). NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote on H.R. 2723, the Dingell (D-MI)/Norwood (R-GA) health care liability/medical necessity bill, which would have left employers open to medical malpractice/personal-injury lawsuits, increased the government's role in the health care delivery system, increased health care costs and forced down coverage. Approved 275-151 on October 7, 1999 (Roll No. 490). NAM Position: No.
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N |
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Vote to suspend the rules and approve H.R. 1714, legislation creating uniform, legally accepted, computer-based signatures. Vote was 234-122 (just shy of the two-thirds majority required under suspension) on November 1, 1999 (Roll No. 552). The bill was later amended, approved by Congressand signed into law (P.L. 106-229) on June 30, 2000. NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote on H.R. 2005, a Chabot (R-OH) bill to set a national, uniform 18-year statute of repose for workplace durable goods covered under worker compensation law. Approved 222-194 on February 2, 2000 (Roll No. 7). NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote on H.R. 2366, a Rogan (R-CA) bill to establish national standards for punitive damages in product liability suits affecting small businesses by: capping punitive damages for small firms (fewer than 25 workers); raising the standard of proof for awarding punitive damages to "clear and convincing" evidence; discouraging trial lawyer "forum shopping"; and more. Approved 221-193 on February 16, 2000 (Roll No. 25). NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
-
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Vote on H.R. 3081, a Lazio (R-NY) bill containing key pro-growth tax incentives, including: simplified pension rules; estate-tax relief; and a repeal of the 1999 tax increase on those who sell their firms on an installment plan. Approved 257-169 on March 9, 2000 (Roll No. 41). NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote on a Trafficant (D-OH) amendment to H.R. 3846 that would increase the minimum wage by $1 over two years. Approved 246-179 on March 9, 2000 (Roll No. 43). Concerned that a wage increase would reduce the growth of entry-level jobs and impede the transition from welfare to work, the NAM opposed the amendment. NAM Position: No.
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N |
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Vote on Senate passed S. 1287, legislation that would provide for the storage of spent nuclear fuel pending completion of the nuclear-waste repository at Yucca Mountain, Nevada. Approved 253-167 on March 22, 2000 (Roll No. 63). Vetoed April 25, 2000. NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote on H.J. Res. 94, proposing an amendment to the U.S. Constitution that would require a two-thirds majority in Congress to raise taxes. The vote was 234-192, 50 short of the two-thirds majority needed to pass a constitutional amendment, on April 12, 2000 (Roll No. 119). NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote on H.R. 4444, legislation granting permannent normal trade relations (PNTR) to China, significantly reducing tariffs on U.S. exports and opening key new markets to U.S. companies. Approved 237-197 on May 25, 2000 (Roll No. 228). Signed into law (P.L. 106-286) on October 10, 2000. NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote on a Collins (R-GA)/Linder (R-GA) amendment to the VA-HUD appropriations bill. Amendment would prevent EPA from forcing states to declare more than 600 U.S. counties in violation of EPA's National Ambient Air Quality Standard's (NAAQS) eight-hour ozone rule until the Supreme Court rules on the issue in 2001. Approved 226-199 on June 21, 2000 (Roll No. 305). NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote on an Olver (D-MA) amendment to teh FY 2001 Commerce-Justice-State appropriations bill. Amendment nullified NAM-supported Knollenberg (R-MI) language preventing agencies from implementing the flawed 1997 Kyoto climate change treaty via regulations. The treaty has not yet been sent to the Senate for ratification. Amendment approved 217-181 on June 26, 2000 (Roll No. 323). NAM Position: No.
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N |
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Vote on H.R. 1304, a Campbell (R-CA) bill that would give collective-bargaining rights to physicians who contract with health plans. Approved 276-136 on June 30, 2000 (Roll No. 372). The NAM and the Administration opposed the scheme, which could have resulted in price fixing, group boycotts of health-plan networks and higher health premiums. NAM Position: No.
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N |
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Vote on H.R. 1102, a Portman (R-OH)/Cardin (D-MD) proposal easing top-heavy rules and eliminating user fees that prevent many small manufacturers from offering pension benefits to their employees. Approved 401-25 on July 19, 2000 (Roll No. 412). NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote on a Davis (R-VA)/Moran (D-VA) amendment to the Treasury/Postal spending bill that would block implementation of the Administration''s contractor blacklisting regulations until a GAO study on the rules can be completed. Approved 228-190 on July 20, 2000 (Roll No. 423). NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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Vote to override the President's veto of H.R. 8, legislation to phase out estate taxes. Estate-tax rates as high as 55 percent force the sale of many family-owned small manufacturing firms. The vote was 274-157 to override, 13 shy of the two-thirds majority needed, on September 7, 2000 (Roll No. 458). NAM Position: Yes.
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Y |
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| This official's percentage on this voting record: |
25%
|
| Official NAM 105th Congress House Voting Record |
| Description |
Preferred Position |
This official's vote compared with the preferred position |
|
Patent Law Reform (Amendment to H.R. 400). Kaptur (D-OH) amendment to exempt
individual inventors, small businesses and universities from the bill’s 18-month publication requirements. Approved 220–193 on April 23, 1997 (Roll No. 88). The NAM opposed the amendment, which compromised many of the bill’s legal reform provisions, including efforts to ban “submarine” patents, and deleted language intended to reduce litigation. H.R. 400 was later approved by voice vote. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Budget Resolution (Conference Report to H.Con. Res. 84). Final passage of a five-year budget blueprint to set the path for elimination of the budget deficit, without net tax increases.
Resolution called for reductions in spending growth by $322 billion, including $128.6 billion in Medicare and Medicaid reforms. Also included net tax cuts totaling $85 billion. Approved 327–97 on June 5, 1997 (Roll No. 166). The NAM supported the resolution as a well-balanced plan that delivers much-needed
tax relief for American families and businesses, while reducing the size and scope of the federal government to 18.9 percent of GDP in 2005 — the lowest in more than 20 years. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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U.S.–China Trade Relations (H.J. Res. 79). Vote to revoke normal trade ties — most-favored-nation (MFN) status — with China. Rejected 259–173 on June 24, 1997 (Roll No. 231). The NAM supported MFN status for China and opposed the resolution, which would have placed high tariffs on
all Chinese goods entering the United States, invited retaliation against U.S. exports, and jeopardized
hundreds of thousands of American jobs linked to China trade. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Tax Relief (H.R. 2014). Vote on a bill to reduce taxes by a net $85 billion over five years. It included: lower capital gains taxes for individuals and corporations; faster depreciation under the corporate alternative minimum tax; an increase in the unified estate tax credit; extensions of the R&D tax credit and Section 127 exclusion for employer-provided education assistance and more. Approved 253–179 on June 26, 1997 (Roll No. 245). The NAM supported the bill as a much-needed package of incentives
that would enhance savings and investment, foster long-term economic growth and reduce the heavy tax burden on businesses, their employees and their families. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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OPIC Funding (Amendment to H.R. 2159). Vote on a Royce (R-CA) amendment to cut by one-third the operating budget of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation, which provides loan
guarantees and political risk insurance to U.S. firms investing overseas. Defeated 272–156 on July 30, 1997 (Ro.. No. 346). The NAM opposed the amendment, because OPIC helps U.S. industry enter new overseas markets and develop long-term customers for their goods and services without costing U.S. taxpayers a penny. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Interim Nuclear Waste Storage (H.R. 1270). Passage of bill to authorize construction of a temporary storage site for spent nuclear fuel in the Nevada desert. Would alleviate problem of dwindling storage space at nuclear utilities and preclude need to build more on-site storage, at additional
risk and cost to consumers. Approved 307–120 on Oct. 29, 1997 (Roll No. 557). The NAM supported the measure, as manufacturers and other nuclear ratepayers have already paid $10 billion to finance permanent storage, which is years behind schedule. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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NLRB Reform/Restrictions on Union “Salting” Practices (H.R. 3246). Passage of legislation to level the playing field between the government and small businesses on important labor
issues. Would restrict the practice of union “salting,” set deadlines for resolution of unfair labor complaints, allow small firms to recoup legal expenses when prevailing against the National Labor Relations Board, and more. Approved 202–200 on March 26, 1998 (Roll No. 78). NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Employee Payroll Protection Act (H.R. 2608). Effort to suspend the rules and pass a bill requiring labor unions to obtain employees’ permission before using a portion of union dues for
political purposes. Rejected March 30, 1998 (Roll No. 83). Vote was 246–166, or 124 votes short of the two-thirds majority needed to suspend the rules. The NAM supported this bill. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Tax Limitation Constitutional Amendment (H.J. Res. 111). Vote on a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment to require a two-thirds majority vote in Congress to raise taxes. Requiring a two-thirds majority vote (283 in this case), the vote on H.J. Res. 111 was 238–186, 45 votes short, on April 22, 1998 (Roll No. 102). The NAM supported the amendment. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Sanctions/Religious Persecution (H.R. 2431). Vote on legislation calling for an annual State Department report on religious persecution overseas. Report would trigger unilateral sanctions
against countries and entities engaging in persecution. Approved 375–41 on May 14, 1998 (Roll No. 155). The NAM opposed the bill, arguing that U.S. sanctions outside a multilateral framework are ineffective
and lead to lost U.S. exports and jobs. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Private-Sector Unfunded Mandates (Waxman Amendment to H.R. 3534). Vote
on a Waxman (D-CA) amendment to NAM-backed H.R. 3534 (Condit—D-CA), legislation permitting House members to raise points of order against bills that place unfunded mandates on industry
costing more than $100 million. Amendment was defeated 221–190 on May 18, 1998 (Roll No. 157). The NAM opposed the “killer” amendment, which would have allowed lawmakers to delay efforts to reduce or
make less stringent unfunded mandates on the private sector. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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U.S.–China Trade Relations (H.J. Res. 121). House vote to rescind normal trade relations (NTR) — formerly most-favored-nation status — with China. Rejected 264–166 on July 22, 1998 (Roll No. 317). The NAM supports NTR with China and opposed the resolution, noting that its enactment would be not only damaging to American interests, including U.S. exports, but would also prolong
the economic instability plaguing all of Southeast Asia. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Uniform Securities Litigation Standard (H.R. 1689). Vote on a White (R-WA)/
Eshoo (D-CA) proposal to create a uniform national standard for securities class action suits. Closes a
loophole in a 1995 federal law that allows trial lawyers to file frivolous securities suits against public
companies in state courts. Approved 340–83 on July 22, 1998 (Roll No. 318). The NAM supported the bill, which allows company resources to flow to growth-oriented endeavors (research, job creation, higher wages and shareholder returns), rather than litigation. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Employer Health Liability (Dingell Amendment to H.R. 4250). Vote on a
Dingell (D-MI) amendment to GOP health bill H.R. 4250. Rejected 217–212 on July 24, 1998 (Roll No. 336). The NAM opposed the amendment, dubiously named the “patients’ bill of rights,” which would have exposed employer health plans — and employers — to medical malpractice liability, thereby increasing health care costs, decreasing insurance coverage and shifting much-needed resources from health care to the trial bar. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Campaign Finance (Shays/Meehan Substitute Amendment to H.R. 2183). Vote on a Shays (R-CT)/Meehan (D-MA) amendment that would ban “soft money” donations and “issue advocacy” advertisements. Adopted 237–186 on Aug. 3, 1998 (Roll No. 379). The NAM opposed the amendment,
arguing it would undermine our free and open political process and infringe on the free speech rights of corporations and trade associations that participate in elections. NAM POSITION: No.
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N |
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Temporary Visas for High-Skilled Workers (H.R. 3736). Vote on a bill to increase the number of H-1B temporary work visas. (FY 1998 cap on H-1B visas was reached in May 1998.) Approved 288-133 on Sept. 24, 1998 (Roll No. 460). The NAM supported the bill, since not enough American-born workers are available to fill the demand for engineers, computer technicians and other high-skilled positions that help manufacturers develop new products, win business contracts for American firms and create jobs for U.S.-born workers. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Fast Track Trade Negotiating Authority (H.R. 2621). Vote on a bill to renew U.S. trade negotiating authority, which expired in 1994. Rejected 243-180 on Sept. 25, 1998 (Roll No. 466). The NAM supported
the bill, which would have permitted administrations to negotiate and finalize market-opening trade
agreements and preserved Congress’ right to reject or approve the trade pacts without amendments. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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Tax Relief (H.R. 4579). Vote on a five-year, $80 billion tax cut bill that included: a retroactive, 20-month extension of the R&D tax credit; acceleration of the $1 million estate tax exemption; a one-year extension of the exemption from Subpart F for active financing income; acceleration of the
$25,000 small business expensing provision; and assurances that 90 percent of expected budget surpluses are set aside for Social Security. Approved 229–195 on Sept. 26, 1998 (Roll No. 469). The NAM supported the pro-growth, pro-worker bill. NAM POSITION: Yes.
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Y |
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| 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 |
|
|
|
