David Thomas: “I agree with the good Senator from Michigan and want to point out that FPI has been fighting such changes for more than…”

“I agree with the good Senator from Michigan and want to point out that FPI has been fighting such changes for more than 5 years. Furthermore, FPI's reluctance to increase the micropurchase threshold points to FPI's unwillingness to recognize the legitimate needs of its Federal agency customers. Lastly, I want to point out that this amendment does nothing to address the numerous other competitive advantages that FPI enjoys. As I pointed out on the Senate floor last week, FPI will retain advantages such as: paying inmates between $.23--$1.15 per hour; not having to pay Social Security or Unemployment compensation; not having to pay for employee benefits; exemption from paying Federal and State income tax, excise tax, and State and local excise taxes; and utilities being provided by the host prison. Under this amendment FPI will continue to enjoy these, and other, competitive advantages. In no way does this amendment shut down FPI. In fact, FPI will continue to produce products for DOD contracts because the private sector cannot compete against not having to pay market wages, employee benefits, and Federal and State taxes.”