For the last five sessions I have worked to try and clarify the rate of estate taxation in this country. I felt the right approach was ultimately to take the 2009 levels and make them permanent. The amendment that carries my name in this…

By way of close, let me say that the legislation before us is important and reflects what has been a pattern of bipartisan work between the ranking member and myself as I have chaired the Social Security Subcommittee. I have enjoyed…

Earlier this year, I introduced a bill with my friend, the ranking member on the Social Security Subcommittee, Sam Johnson, to protect the accuracy of Social Security records and help shield individuals from identity theft. Our bill…

In October, the Social Security Commissioner announced there would be no cost-of-living adjustment--or COLA--for Social Security benefits in 2011. This is the result of economic conditions. It is not due to action or inaction on the part…

I want to put into the Record my thoughts about Bob Ball, one of the most remarkable people I have ever met. And there is no one I have met whose public sector contribution I admire more. Naming this building on the campus of Social…

We want this base used, and used actively. It has a long history of playing an important role in our Nation's defense structure.

Last week, former Congressman Arthur A. Link who served in the 92nd Congress passed away. One week earlier, he celebrated his 96th birthday and 71st wedding anniversary with his beloved wife, Grace. Mr. Link held elected office in North…

I rise in support of amendment No. 23, which reauthorizes the Joint Family Support Assistance Program. This program has been providing critical support to the unsung heroes of the global war on terror, the families left behind of deploying…

I am here to talk about the cell phone provision of this bill. I am pleased to work with my friend, Sam Johnson, on the other side of the aisle in addressing what really is an anachronism in the Tax Code. Maybe at the time this technology…

Helping North Dakota business create jobs is my top priority and today, Madam Speaker, Congress takes another step forward with a sharp focus on small businesses. Small businesses are a proven engine of job creation. During the last…

This outfit is the best. What they do is remarkable.

Thank you. Let me just say a couple words for the record.

I would like to thank Chairman Conyers, Congressman Tom Perriello of Virginia, Congresswoman Betsy Markey of Colorado, and others for their leadership in bringing to the floor this important bill aimed at creating greater competition in…

The thing that really gets me about all the work we've done is we have another lake rise of 2-3 feet bringing a new host of problems that only get more difficult.

I thank the gentleman for yielding and commend him so much for the leadership he has shown on budget matters. Receiving fiscal lectures from this crowd is a little bit like getting investment advice from Bernie Madoff. You know, when…

I believe you are going to play critical roles in getting us back on track.

That makes sense to me, contrary to what we heard last week.

I believe that when it is a securitized issue spread around with no remote concept of insurable interest, you raise profound questions about whether or not this tax incentive ought to apply anymore.

I just want to begin, Mr. Chairman, by thanking you for this hearing and commend this panel in particular.

It is a privilege to get to hear you.

We believe we can do much better than this.

I respectfully request to submit the following letter to the record from the Bank of North Dakota for the hearing the Education and Labor committee held on May 21, 2009.

It is really on its face absurd. And I appreciate very much the leadership of this Committee in giving us these kinds of fora to have us sit in the sun and dissect it a little bit.

I believe the Bank of North Dakota's insights will significantly contribute to this hearing.