03.17.09

Maria's Monday Memo

Senator Cantwell Launching New E-newsletter

In the midst of updating my website with new features to provide you with up to date information about issues that matter to you most, I am launching a brand new e-newsletter program to replace my weekly Monday Memo.
 
The e-newsletter will provide you with details about what Congress is working on, my own legislative efforts, and information about issues that matter to you most. It will also provide you with a chance for you to tell me what’s on your mind through occasional surveys and comment opportunities.
 
If you receive my Monday Memo, you will be automatically signed up to receive the new e-newsletter. You still will have the option to unsubscribe at any time.
 
I look forward to continuing our conversation in this new format, and look forward to hearing from you.
 
 
Recovery Act Will Create Law Enforcement Jobs and Give Agencies Tools They Need to Combat Gangs and Crime
 
This past Saturday, I was in Seattle to announce that law enforcement in Washington state will receive nearly $36.7 million in additional funding through the Edward Byrne Justice Assistance (JAG) Program. These levels will ensure that local law enforcement has the financial resources it needs to make our communities safer and to push back the scourge of gangs and drugs. Like families, local governments are also struggling during this economic downturn. These additional funds will go a long way to ensuring local governments won't have to lay off police officers and can continue important law enforcement initiatives. Last year alone, King County had to laid off 86 officers due to budget cuts. Public safety must remain a top priority regardless of what is happening with the economy.
 
The JAG funds can be used by state and local governments for a wide variety of initiatives that bolster law enforcement or improve education as well as for technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, and information systems.
 
Expanding Airwaves for Community-Based Broadcasting
 

Last Friday, I introduced legislation that would open up the airwaves for Washington state communities to hear locally produced radio programming. The Local Community Radio Act of 2009 provides a big boost for lower power FM stations and its listeners by providing communities with a wide range of viewpoints, localized community information, and alternative content. As media consolidation becomes more prevalent, these stations can increase the number of independent and minority-owned stations, and provide listeners with diverse perspectives.

IRS Has Millions in Refunds for Washingtonians Who Have Not Filed a 2005 Tax Return
 
Last Monday, I urged Washington residents who have waited to file their federal income tax return from 2005 to submit their application no later than April 15, 2009 in order to collect the estimated $39,414,000. The IRS estimates that Washingtonians could receive up $624. Given these tough economic times, Washingtonians could use this money to help make ends meet. 
 
Current and prior year tax forms are available on the Forms and Publications web page at www.irs.gov or by calling (800) 829-3676.
 
 
Trade Representative Nominee Kirk Will Move Quickly to Remove Barriers to Increase U.S. Competitiveness in 21st Century Global Economy
 
Last week, during a Senate Commerce Committee hearing, I called on for a quick confirmation process to make former Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk the next United States Trade Representative. There is an urgent need to promote growth in our domestic economy. With nearly half of the global economy shifting to the Asia-Pacific regions, we must strengthen strong and vital partnerships between the U.S and the largest economies in Asia – specifically China and South Korea. I am confident that Mr. Kirk will work to expand commerce across the globe and strengthen our country's trading relationships in a global community.
 
Honoring the Sailors of the United States Submarine Force
 
Last week, I sponsored a Senate Resolution honoring the sailors of the United States Submarine Force upon the completion of 1,000 Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) deterrent patrols. The Ohio-class, Trident submarines are based at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay and Naval Submarine Base Bangor Washington. They carry Trident D5 missiles and provide strategic deterrence for the United States and our allies.   This milestone marks the combined efforts and achievements of all of the submariners who have participated in deterrent patrols since the first patrol of USS Ohio in 1982.
 
Due to the dedication and professionalism exhibited by the sailors of the U.S. Submarine Force, these trident-ballistic submarines have stood steadfast, ready, and vigilant in their commitment against those who seek to do the U.S. or our allies harm. These sailors and their families have my utmost support and appreciation for the many sacrifices they make on behalf of the security of our nation.
 
President Obama's Action on Stem Cell Research That Could Aid an Estimated One in Ten Washingtonians
 
Last week, I applauded President Obama’s move to lift restrictions on federal financing for embryonic stem cell research. One in ten Washingtonians could stand to benefit from stem cell research, and it is long past time for us to remove roadblocks to this life-saving research. I have been a long-time proponent of removing restrictions and taking the commonsense steps necessary to encourage federal support of embryonic stem cell research, which holds promise for Americans living with Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and spinal cord injuries.
 
Successful Washington Health Care Reforms that Nation Should Use As a Model
 
Last week, President Obama made it clear that health reform is a top priority for his Administration. I share his commitment and I'm glad we are taking a closer look at some of the health care reforms he is proposing. The American health care system is in desperate need of reforms,and 45 million Americans lack health care coverage with millions more scared that they'll lose the coverage they do have. 
 
Over the next few months, I will introduce various pieces of legislation that build on Washington’s success in areas of health care reform. Washington state is leading the way in reforming health care to make it smarter, more affordable, focused on long-term care and prevention, and within every American’s reach. In the 111th Congress, I will work to build on the concepts Washington has pioneered when it comes to its Medicaid population, health IT, and long-term care and prevention.
 
Cantwell Statement on Gil Kerlikowske's Nomination for Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy
 
Last Wednesday, I applauded President Obama’s nomination of Seattle Police Chief Gil Kerlikowske’s to be Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). Chief Kerlikowske brings over 36 years of law enforcement experience and personal knowledge to the position. As the next drug czar, Kerlikowske will work with the Office of National Drug Control Policy to develop and oversee federal policies aimed at cutting Americans’ use of illegal drugs.
 
Commitment to Washington State's Economy, Create Jobs, and Strengthen Communities
 
Last week, I reaffirmed my commitment to growing Washington state’s economy, creating jobs and strengthening communities by voting in favor of the Omnibus Appropriations Act of 2009. With passage of this Act, Washington state is will receive funding for critical transportation and infrastructure projects, employment training, methamphetamine education and prevention, and programs to support the state’s agriculture producers and to protect the state’s natural resources. In particular, I was instrumental in securing $2 million for the acquisition of a Coastal Weather Radar system to help the state get one step closer to being able to better predict severe storms and weather.
 
Climate Change Isn't Just About the Environment; It's About Jobs, Economy
 
Last week, during a Senate Commerce Committee hearing on climate change, I urged for a boost in climate change research funding in fiscal year 2010, including a focus on ocean acidification Ocean acidification occurs when carbon dioxide reacts with seawater to form carbonic acid, and in excess, causes oceans to become more acidic. This hinders the ability of reefs to rebuild and can dissolve the shells of animals such as plankton, scallops, clams, lobsters, and others forming the base of the food chain. Warmer, more acidic oceans can destroy important fisheries and food chains in the Pacific Ocean, impacting Pacific Northwest icons like Pacific Salmon. Reduced Salmon runs would harm Puget Sound's endangered Southern Resident Orca populations that depend on the salmon as a major source of food.
 
If we fail to act, climate change and its effects will cost Washingtonians an additional $1,250 each year by 2020. I am particularly concerned with what many people call climate change’s ‘evil twin,’ ocean acidification. Unless we figure out solutions to address the impact high levels of carbon dioxide are having on our oceans, we could be facing the single greatest disaster when it comes to the ocean environment.
 
Cantwell Announces Grant Funding to Put Washingtonians to Work and Lower Consumers' Energy Bills
 
Last week, I announced that Washington state will receive over $120 million in state and local weatherization efforts. The funding for the Weatherization Assistance Program will relieve some of the financial burdens on Washingtonians while helping to create a demand for more green-collar jobs. In addition, funding for the State Energy Program will help get new energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies off the ground, creating jobs and helping spurring new sources of clean energy. The funding will fuel job creation, address our country's energy challenges and help our most vulnerable citizens when they need it most. 
 
The DOE’s Weatherization Assistance Program allows low-income families to reduce their energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient, reducing heating bills by an average of 32 percent and overall energy bills by hundreds of dollars per year. It will allow an average investment of up to $6,500 per home in energy efficiency upgrades and will be available for families making up to 200% of the federal poverty level – or about $44,000 for a family of four.