Latest Press Releases from Charles B. Rangel

Rangel Hails President Obama's Dedication to Women's Health and Religious Liberty

2012-02-10T22:33:55Z

Washington D.C. - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement after President Obama addressed concerns raised by the religious community in the new contraception rule being enacted by the Department of Health and Human Services:

"I applaud President Barack Obama's fair and effective plan that accommodates the concerns of religious organizations while protecting the health of women in our country at the same time. Under the new policy announced today, women will still have access to free preventive care that includes contraceptive services – no matter where she works. But if a woman’s employer is a charity, hospital or other religious organization that has a religious objection to providing contraceptive services as part of its health plan, her insurance company –not the hospital or charity – will be required to reach out and offer her contraceptive care free of charge.

Nearly 99 percent of American women use contraception at some point in their lives; yet more than half between the ages of 18-34 struggle to afford it. Under the Affordable Care Act, insurance companies must cover preventive services for women without charging a co-pay starting on August 1, 2012. These preventive services include well women visits, domestic violence screening, and contraception. This new law will save money for millions of Americans and make sure they are receiving the quality health care they deserve.

President Obama's sound policy proves that tough issues can be solved. President Obama understands the important work faith-based organizations do in communities across our nation, such as they do in our own Manhattan Congressional District. Today, the President has proved it is possible to respect religious liberty while protecting women's health.”

Hundreds Attend Rangel Social Security Fair

2012-02-08T23:58:31Z

New York, NY - Congressman Charles Rangel serviced hundreds of constituents in his Manhattan Congressional District at the Rangel Social Security Fair at the State Office Building, on Saturday, February 4, 2012. The event featured representatives from the Social Security Administration to answer constituents' questions.

“I am very pleased so many of my constituents were able to take advantage of this important opportunity to have their relevant concerns addressed by Social Security officials,” said Rangel. “In the past year, Republicans in Congress have constantly put cuts to Social Security front-and center in our nation's ongoing fiscal debates. With so much scare-mongering in the news, it is imperative to allay seniors and future retirees about their concerns and provide reassurance that benefits will be untouched and stable now and into the future."

Nearly three hundred constituents of all ages packed the event to hear Congressman Rangel and representatives from the Social Security Administration address a range of issues. The New York Regional Director, Ms. Beatrice Disman, made a powerful presentation in her speech as well as during the Q&A with my constituents. Ms. Disman's staff, including John Shallman, Regional Communications Director for the New York Region, was eager to provide detailed answers to my constituents' questions. As a result, everyone left happy with the opportunity to listen to and speak with Social Security Administration officials in such a friendly setting.

Seniors raised issues of immediate importance such as direct deposit, disability benefits, and Cost of Living Adjustment benefits. As future beneficiaries, younger generations raised concerns regarding conservative efforts to raise the retirement age, privatize Social Security and the program's sustainability.

"Social Security, retirement programs, and jobs for all Americans are the heart of a dignified living. As elected officials we shouldn’t lose touch with those we so proudly represent,” said Rangel. "I will continue to bring Washington to our District so my constituents will stay at the heart of the changes that are taking place in the federal programs."

Saturday's Social Security Fair also became a great forum to address questions on the general economic outlook and to hear many personal stories. “If the economy is not doing so well, doesn’t that affect our government provided benefits?” asked Florencia O’Loughlin, a concerned grandmother looking for a job. Also in attendance to address questions were Senator Bill Perkins, Council Members Robert Jackson and Inez E. Dickens.

Rangel And NY Congressional Delegation Reps Join MTA & Union To Protest GOP Cuts To Public Transit

2012-02-08T22:27:41Z

New York, NY - Congressman Charles Rangel (NY-15) and his New York Congressional Delegation Reps. Joe Crowley (NY-7), Jerrold Nadler (NY-8) and Carolyn Maloney (NY-14) spoke out against House Republicans’ effort to cut federal support for public transit at the Grand Central Terminal in New York City on Monday, February 6, 2012. Also voicing their concerns were: Metropolitan Transit Authority Chairman Joseph Lhota, Transport Workers Union President John Samuelsen, and Central Labor Council of New York City .

"At a time when unemployment in the construction sector is 13% nationally we should be putting people to work to improve our nation's transportation system, not cutting basic funding for public transportation providers such as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority,” said Rangel. “Gutting the lifeline for our nation's transit agencies will have an erosive impact on the people and the regional economy.”

On Friday, February 3, 2012, the Ways and Means Committee led by the current Republican majority, passed its portion of the federal transportation bill, H.R. 3864 - American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Financing Act of 2011, that would end the guaranteed funding for mass transportation and leave today's inadequate funding levels in doubt. The bill would strip away the dedicated funding stream for the Mass Transit Account, which allows states, municipalities and local transit agencies to plan and fund capital projects with the certainty needed to make job-creating infrastructure investments.

“Such a move would have a significant impact on the ability of the city and the MTA to fund capital projects, as well as jeopardize much-needed mass-transit services and threaten jobs in this critical sector,” said Vincent Alvarez, President of NYC Central Labor Council.

In New York City alone, the Mass Transit Account funds key investments the City’s subways, buses, commuter rails, and other forms of public transit. Slashing this funding stream will result in a loss of $1.7 billion for New York State and will adversely affect City and suburban commuters who rely on public transportation every day.

“The proposal would substitute a reliable funding source with an undetermined-and wholly unreliable-commitment. And it would rob the MTA of investments we count on every year to fund our vital Capital Program,” said MTA Chairman & Chief Executive Officer Joseph J. Lhota. “Make no mistake: As the largest mass transit agency in the country, this bill would hit the MTA hard."

Said Rangel: “I will be fighting against this deplorable bill that is obstructing our effort to improve our infrastructure and create jobs so that future generations may have an adequate and safe transportation system.”

Rangel, with Democratic Ways and Means Colleague Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), tried to thwart the Republican effort by offering an amendment to strike the provision, it failed on a strict party line vote of 22-15. The amendment offered by Rangel and Blumenauer would have preserved the dedicated funding for transit programs offered by the Mass Transit Account, which allows transit agencies in communities across the country to plan for the future and allows the Federal Transit Agency to honor its long-term commitments.

“We need investments that will help put people back to work, boost our economy, and create a better future for all New Yorkers - not massacre our mass transit system,” said Rep. Crowley. “Slashing public transportation strikes at the heart of middle class New York workers’ quality of life and it is not an answer to any of our problems.”

BACKGROUND

In 1983, President Regan signed into law the Surface Transportation Assistance Act, which created a dedicated funding source for public transportation through the federal gas tax. This dedicated source of revenue allowed states, municipalities and local transit agencies to plan and fund capital projects with the certainty needed to make these infrastructure investments as efficient and cost-effective for taxpayers as possible. As congestion rose in urban areas, and rural areas saw their share of car-less, low-income families rise, the need to fund this account has grown. The Republican proposal to redirect federal gasoline tax revenues away from public transportation will worsen this funding shortage and subject transit funding to the annual appropriations process, creating uncertainty for critical job-creating infrastructure projects.

Rangel: Pressure Congress to Pass Yearlong Payroll Tax and UI Extension

2012-02-08T21:06:00Z

Washington, D.C. – The following is a transcript of Congressman Charles Rangel’s remarks on the House floor on February 8, 2012:

"Most Americans believe that when Congress doesn’t do what they want, that they can wait until Election Day and remind us what we didn't do and how we let them down.

I remember when the debate on unemployment insurance, payroll tax cut as well as the payment of our doctors began around Christmas time. The Democrats really thought that since the Republican Majority felt that unemployed people getting compensation wouldn't look for work and that they weren't paying enough taxes that this battle wouldn’t end.

However when the American people spoke up and they didn't wait until Election Day to make their voices heard we were able to pass a temporary extension. They got on the phone and called their House Members -- Republicans and Democrats. They called everybody to say that they could not afford a sharp increase in their payroll deductions or the loss of their unemployment insurance.

Now that the debate has begun again for a yearlong extension, Americans need to put the pressure back on their Members of Congress to get this deal done. Contact them and demand to get what you want and what you deserve."

Rangel Scores High For Protecting Our Environment

2012-02-08T16:58:31Z

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Charles Rangel recently earned high marks for his voting record on protecting the environment by the League of Conservation Voters (LCV) on its 2011 National Environmental Scorecard. Rangel received a high score of 94 percent, which was calculated as part of a summary that informs the public of the most important environmental legislation of past Congressional Sessions and how their Representatives voted.

"I’m honored to be recognized for protecting our great nation’s natural resources. The preservation of the environment is especially important in our urban community, where the effects of poor air and water quality are vital public health issues facing my constituents every day," said Rangel. "I was proud to work toward the preservation of the many parks in our District such as Marcus Garvey, Riverbank State, Morningside, Ft. Tyron, St. Nicholas, and Jackie Robinson Park. We must continue to retain their beauty for years to come."

Earlier this year Rangel also took part in the MillionTreesNYC initiative with the planting of the 500,000th tree, by Mayor Bloomberg at Saint Nicholas Park in Harlem. MillionTreesNYC is a citywide program aiming to plant and care for one million new trees across the City's five boroughs over the next decade. The program emphasizes that planting trees helps clean our air, and reduces the pollutants that trigger asthma attacks and exacerbates other respiratory diseases.

During the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator, Lisa Jackson, visited the Manhattan Congressional District to show her support for the environmental improvements taking place. Also in attendance were several local environment organizations that Rangel has worked with, including WEACT, the West Harlem/Morningside Heights Sanitation Coalition and Fresh Youth Initiatives.

“I thank the League of Conservation Voters for their continued advocacy on behalf of our environment. I will continue to work hard for additional legislation to protect our environment while defending current regulations," said Rangel. “Working to preserve the natural resources of this great nation is a task that will not only improve our standard of living in America now, but will create a safer environment for our children’s future.”

Cornerstone environmental protections emerged from 2011 largely unscathed despite House Republicans' attempt to vote against the environment a shocking number of times. The Democrats in Congress along with President Barack Obama also made major progress through administrative actions to protect our air and water.

For over 40 years, the National Environmental Scorecard issued by LCV has been the nationally accepted yardstick used to rate members of Congress on environmental, public health and energy issues. The 2011 Scorecard includes 11 Senate and a record 35 House votes on issues ranging from public health protections to clean energy to land and wildlife conservation. The House votes included in the 2011 Scorecard are simply many of the most significant votes taken in a year that saw the House voting more than 200 times on the environment and public health.

Rangel Observes National Black HIV Day

2012-02-07T23:28:40Z

Washington D.C. - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following in recognition of National Black HIV Day on February 7, 2012:

"Today we recognize National Black HIV Day in an effort to end the devastating effects of HIV in black communities throughout America. Out of 1 million who suffer from the deadly disease nearly half are African-Americans, who make up only 12% of the population. Furthermore the spread and infection rate of this deadly virus is a serious concern in New York City, which is ranked first in most of the cases diagnosed in the country. Yet the average death rate due to HIV/AIDS during the past decade in Central Harlem was more than double the rest of New York City.

In response to the alarmingly high rates of HIV/AIDS infections in our Manhattan Congressional District, State Senator Bill Perkins, National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS, New Hope for the World Ministries, Harlem United and a broad coalition of elected officials, clergy, community leaders and individuals dedicated to working together to call attention to high rates of HIV/ AIDS in our communities have launched a month-long "TOGETHER WE CAN END AIDS" campaign.

I introduced the National Black Clergy for Eradication of HIV/AIDS because I recognize that black clergy play a crucial role in ushering the necessary changes that will provide better education, awareness, and preventative measures to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS among African-Americans. The bill authorizes various agencies to expand and increase programs for HIV/AIDS education, prevention, testing, and care/treatment, specifically with respect to blacks. Black churches have been a part of this battle for years. Eradicating the threat of HIV/AIDS will take their continued leadership and determination. This bill provides critical support that those institutions need to make a greater difference in combating HIV/AIDS within cities, towns and communities across our great nation.

We cannot turn a blind eye to an illness that has ravaged the black community and crippled the lives of so many Americans. The message has to come from everywhere, from the pulpit to the classroom. Our communities are being devastated by this epidemic, and must make it a top priority to stop the spread of infection and get those infected to treatment early. TOGETHER WE CAN END AIDS. Yes, we can!"

Rangel Honored As A Defender Of Children

2012-02-07T19:13:54Z

Washington D.C. –Congressman Charles Rangel was recently named as a Defender of Children by the First Focus Campaign for Children (FFCC). This award is part of their campaign to recognize the top 100 Members of Congress who advocate on behalf of children in policy and budget decisions.

“I’m proud to have this title bestowed upon on me as both a Member of Congress and a proud grandfather of three beautiful grandkids,” said Rangel. “The fact that one in every five children are born into poverty in our country proves that there is always more work to be done to improve the lives and futures of our nation’s children.”

As the sponsor of the historic Patient Protection and Affordable Healthcare Act, Rangel helped ensure that children will no longer be denied or excluded from receiving health insurance based on a pre-existing condition, including a disability. Last summer he introduced the H.R. 2394 -Rebuilding America's Schools Act, which would increase aid for school construction and renovation across the country and provide a safe environment for children to thrive. Rangel continues to be a strong proponent of the DREAM Act which could provide incentives for 715,000 undocumented children and students between the ages of 5 and 17 to finish high school and pursue postsecondary education.

“I thank First Focus Campaign for their advocacy on behalf of America’s children as well as my Colleagues who have also been given this honorable award,” said Rangel. “By giving our children more opportunities today, we are essentially improving the future of our entire nation.”

First Focus Campaign for Children is a national bipartisan children's advocacy organization based in Washington, DC. In selecting Defenders, the First Focus Campaign for Children noted leaders who introduced, co-sponsored, and voted for legislation to meet children's needs. In addition, FFCC considered Members of Congress who demonstrated extraordinary initiative by sponsoring hearings or garnering the support of their colleagues to improve the health, educational outcomes, and well-being of children.

Rangel Recognizes American Heart Month

2012-02-07T17:50:16Z

New York, NY - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement in recognition of American Heart Month taking place during the throughout the month of February:

“Each year, more Americans die from heart disease than all other causes of death, combined. Those Americans who live with chronic heart disease and other heart disease-related illnesses face varying ranges of disability and burdensome suffering. The collective end-result for our nation, as a whole, is devastating: lost work productivity, inability to fully contribute to community due to illness, mounting medical costs, and lost societal vitality.

This is why I hope that all Americans will join me in observing American Heart Month during the month of February. Thanks to the great work of organizations like the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, great strides have been made in the investigation of heart disease and blood vessel-related illnesses. Research supported by these organizations has resulted in new and innovative therapies which slow disease progression, decrease morbidity and mortality, and increase quality of life for millions of Americans, daily. Many organizations in our Manhattan Congressional District are dedicated to fighting heart disease, such as: Columbia University Medical Center, Harlem Hospital Center, Harlem Cardiology of Madison Ave., Lenox Hill Hospital, St. Luke's Medical Group.

I sponsored a bill, the Patient Protection and Affordability Care Act, because I feel passionate about uninsured Americans who suffer from chronic conditions such as heart disease. The passage of this bill on March 23, 2010, ensures that more Americans than ever before will have insurance coverage for mounting medical expenses. Additionally, these Americans will not be excluded from coverage because of their pre-existing conditions.

However, our work is far from done. In Congress, I will continue the fight to alleviate the pain and suffering of heart disease by ensuring that medical coverage remains available for those who need it the most. Our current and future generations must not be deprived of the opportunity to access healthier lives. Working together, I am optimistic that we will not allow this to happen."

Rangel Commends President Obama�s Vets Jobs Corps

2012-02-07T00:03:44Z

Washington D.C. - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement after President Obama announced his new Veterans Jobs Corps initiative aimed at employing America’s veterans:

"President Barack Obama’s new Veterans Jobs Corps initiative is another testament of his commitment to America’s veterans. The greatest support we as a nation can give our nation's heroes is creating jobs and restoring the American Dream they have bravely defended.

The President’s vets initiative will utilize the advanced skills of our soldiers have learned in the military while transitioning tens of thousands them into the civilian workforce. Last year in Congress, we were proud to pass the VOW to Hire Heroes Act, which combines a key component of President Obama’s jobs bill with a related, bipartisan initiative to boost employment opportunities for veterans.

The Administration’s new veteran employment initiatives, coupled with President Obama's previous record, have improved the lives of our veterans and their families, including the 18,000 veterans living in our Manhattan Congressional District. I will proudly continue to support such job-creating initiatives, especially for the brave men and women of our military.”

More Information on the Veterans Jobs Corps initiative:

•New incentives to hire veterans as first responders: The President will announce $166 million in 2012 Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Grant funding and $320 million in 2012 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants. The President will also announce that preference for these grants will now be given to communities that recruit and hire post-9/11 veterans to serve as police officers and firefighters. The COPS funding preserves law enforcement jobs and spurs new ones by making grant awards to communities across the country. SAFER grants provide funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations in order to help them increase and retain the number of trained firefighters available in their communities, enhancing the local fire departments' abilities to comply with staffing, response, and operational standards.

•Hiring veterans to protect Americans as first responders and law enforcement officers: Today, the President announced he will include in his FY13 Budget the $4 billion in COPS funding first proposed in the American Jobs Act to spur police officer hiring in 2012. The Budget will also include $1 billion for SAFER grants, as proposed in the American Jobs Act, to encourage firefighter hiring. Preference for these grants will also be given to communities that hire post-9/11 veterans.

•Putting veterans to work preserving and restoring America’s land and resources: The President will propose $1 billion to develop a Veterans Job Corps conservation program that will put up to 20,000 veterans back to work over the next five years protecting and rebuilding America. Veterans will restore our great outdoors by providing visitor programs, restoring habitat, protecting cultural resources, eradicating invasive species, and operating facilities. Additionally, our veterans will help make a significant dent in the deferred maintenance of our Federal, State, local, and tribal lands including jobs that will repair and rehabilitate trails, roads, levees, recreation facilities and other assets. The program will serve all veterans, but will have a particular focus on post-9/11 veterans.

•Supporting veteran entrepreneurship by building our next generation of small business leaders: The President will propose an expansion of entrepreneurship training opportunities for separating service members and veterans. As part of the VA-DOD Task Force for a Career Ready Military that the President established in August of last year, the Departments of Defense and Veteran Affairs, working with the Small Business Administration, are developing a two-day entrepreneurship program as part of the Transition Assistance Program that will be available to all service members. In addition, once service members separate, SBA will offer veterans more in-depth entrepreneurial training through an 8-week online training program that will teach the fundamentals of small business ownership to over 10,000 veterans annually, as well as an expansion of the existing suite of programs and public-private partnerships supporting entrepreneurship and small business development opportunities for veterans and veterans’ families, including an intensive entrepreneurship boot camp.

Building on Progress:

Since taking office, President Obama and Democrats have taken key steps to support veterans in developing skills and finding work, including by:

•Creating two new veterans’ tax credits: In November 2011, the President signed into law two new tax credits for hiring veterans, both of which were included as part of the American Jobs Act. The Returning Heroes Tax Credit provides an incentive of up to $5,600 for firms to hire unemployed veterans and the Wounded Warrior Tax Credit doubled the existing tax credit for long-term unemployed veterans with service-connected disabilities to $9,600.

•Challenging the private sector to hire or train 100,000 veterans and their spouses by 2013: Since the President issued his challenge to the private sector in August 2011, already more than 40,000 veterans and the spouses have been hired and 1,500 companies have committed to hire or train 135,000 veterans and their spouses by the end of 2013 through the leadership of the First Lady Michelle Obama, Dr. Jill Biden and their Joining Forces initiative.

•Increasing access to intensive reemployment services: Post-9/11 veterans are now able to download the Veteran Gold Card, which entitles them to enhanced reemployment services including six months of personalized case management, assessments and counseling at the roughly 3,000 One-Stop Career Centers located across the country. This will help serve the 250,000 unemployed Post-9/11 veterans.

•Developing online tools to boost veteran employment: The Administration launched the Veterans Jobs Bank, an easy to use tool to help veterans find job postings from companies looking to hire them. It already searches over one million job postings and is growing. Additionally, the Department of Labor launched My Next Move for Veterans, a new online resource that allows veterans to enter their military occupation code and discover civilian occupations for which they are well qualified.

•Increasing hiring of veterans in healthcare-related fields: The President challenged Community Health Centers to hire 8,000 veterans – approximately one veteran per health center site – over the next three years and the Health Resources and Services Administration pledged to open up career-paths beyond nursing and expand opportunities for veterans to become physician assistants.

Rangel Deplores GOP Bill To Cut Mass Transit Funding

2012-02-03T20:40:18Z

Washington D.C. - Congressman Charles Rangel (D-NY) condemned the Ways and Means Committee's passage of the tax provision in H.R. 3864 - American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Financing Act of 2011. This portion of the bill would end the guaranteed funding for mass transportation and leave today's inadequate funding levels in doubt. While Rangel and Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) tried to thwart the Republican effort by offering an amendment to strike the provision, it failed on a strict party line vote of 22-15.

"At a time when unemployment in the construction sector is 13% nationally we should be putting people to work to improve our nation's transportation system, not cutting basic funding for public transportation providers such as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority," said Rangel. "In New York alone, over 8 million riders rely on the MTA everyday to commute across bridges and highways to and from work. Gutting the lifeline for our nation's transit agencies will have an erosive impact on the people and the regional economy."

The amendment offered by Rangel and Blumenauer would have preserved the dedicated funding for transit programs offered by the Mass Transit Account, which allows transit agencies in communities across the country to plan for the future and allows the Federal Transit Agency to honor its long-term commitments.

At the direction of House leadership, the Republicans are expected to reverse policy that began under President Ronald Reagan. For the past 30 years, Congress has supported dedicated funding for both highways and transit. As congestion rose in urban areas, and rural areas saw their share of car-less, low-income families rise, bipartisan support grew for providing transit as a dependable relief valve. Republican proposal to redirect federal gasoline tax revenues away from mass transportation would mean that transit would have to compete each year for general fund revenues that are in line for deep cuts in coming years.

Added Rangel: "I will be fighting against this deplorable bill that is obstructing our effort to improve our infrastructure and create jobs so that future generations may have an adequate and safe transportation system."

More than 600 local officials groups, including the U.S. Conference of Mayors, the National League of Cities, the National Association of Counties, the National Association of City Transportation Officials, and other organizations have signed on to a letter opposing H.R. 3864.

More info on American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Financing Act of 2012's Proposed Changes to Surface Transportation Funding:

H.R. 3864 would terminate all dedicated revenues – 2.86 cents per gallon of the 18.4 federal gasoline tax – that have been dedicated to mass transit since the Reagan Administration [it was only 1 cent under Reagan - this amount has gone up over time]

The Mass Transit Account would receive a one-time infusion of revenues from the General Fund of the U.S. Treasury of roughly $40 billion to be spent down over the life of the reauthorization. The offsets for these funds have not yet been identified and could be controversial -- further these funds would be subject to future budget fights as Congress looks to reduce general fund spending.

This represents a significant funding cut compared to current law for transit and Congestion Mitigation Air Quality (CMAQ) programs.

In addition, this change breaks with three decades of policy and severs the connection between user fees and transit programs.

General Fund revenues are subject to cuts in future years and do not provide the budgetary firewalls and protections that currently exist for the Mass Transit Account and the CMAQ program.

Rangel Lauds January Jobs Report: Unemployment Drops To 8.3%

2012-02-03T18:11:24Z

Washington D.C. - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement after the release of the January jobs report by the Department of Labor on February 3, 2012:

"The new jobs report proves that President Barack Obama and his Administration’s economic recovery plan has been successful. With the addition of 243,000 jobs in January, which dropped the unemployment rate to 8.3 from 8.5 percent, America's workforce received another boost and is gaining steam.

President Obama recently highlighted American manufacturing in his blueprint for a stronger America. Last month, American manufacturers increased payrolls by 50,000, while construction added 21,000 and mining 10,000. January was the 23rd consecutive month of private sector job growth as President Obama remains true to the Democratic path of getting our country back on track.

It is time for my Republican Colleagues to abandon their “do-nothing” agenda and join Democrats and President Obama in our efforts to create jobs and get Americans working again. At the very least, they shouldn't let their extreme ideologies stand in our way of making further progress towards rebuilding our economy.”

Rangel Hails $2.1 Billion in Medicare Prescription Savings - Thanks to Affordable Care Act

2012-02-02T21:53:54Z

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Charles Rangel hailed today's report by the Department of Health and Human Services announcing that 3.6 million Medicare beneficiaries saved $2.1 billion in prescription drug costs last year as a result of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. In New York State, more than 230,000 Medicare beneficiaries experienced savings totaling more than $259 million, an average of $695 per beneficiary.

“Prescription drugs cost thousands of dollars for seniors every year, and I am glad to know they are already experiencing the cost-saving benefits of President Obama's Affordable Care Act," Rangel said. "Seniors can take comfort in the enduring strength of Medicare as they direct their savings towards a dignified retirement."

The cost-cutting measures to prescription drugs are a central component of the Affordable Care Act, which became law in 2010 and passed through Congressman Rangel's leadership in the Ways and Means Committee. Discounts to brand name drugs will increase to 52.5% in 2013 and to 55% in 2015. The savings are expected to grow until the donut hole is completely eliminated for both brand-name and generic drugs in 2019.

The report also shows that over the next 10 years, the law will save seniors and people with disabilities in traditional Medicare even more money, with average beneficiary savings reaching approximately $4,200. Seniors who incur high prescription drug spending will save close to $16,000 over the same period.

"Republican efforts to repeal the healthcare law would diminish the efforts we are making to close the donut hole and provide improved Medicare provisions for seniors in our Manhattan Congressional District and across America," said Rangel. "I will defend the rights of our seniors to have affordable healthcare and continue to fight for the sustainability Medicare for future generations."

Rangel Applauds Startup America Legislative Agenda

2012-02-01T20:31:17Z

New York, NY - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement in support of President Obama's Startup America Legislative Agenda for Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs:

"This week marks the one-year anniversary of the Startup America Legislative Agenda, a national initiative that aims to promote private-sector investment in entrepreneurship. I am very pleased to see a program that aimed to give small businesses and entrepreneurs the tools they need to expand their businesses or start new ones.

Strengthening the nation's economy is our top priority in the 112th Congress. President Obama's Legislative Agenda will achieve this by removing barriers that prevent small businesses from getting the financing they need to drive economic growth and create new jobs. If we cut taxes and increase access to capital for small business owners and entrepreneurs, they will have more opportunities to succeed.

Supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs is crucial as we take the necessary steps to restore our economy and the American Dream. I have seen first-hand the positive impact small business owners have made in our Manhattan Congressional District. I will continue to support legislation that will benefit their growth, spur job creation and strengthen our economy."

More Information on the Startup America Legislative Agenda:

•Cutting taxes for small businesses: The President is proposing to build on the 17 small business tax cuts he has already signed into law with four new tax cuts to encourage growth and investment:

Expand and Make Permanent Zero Capital Gains on Small Business Investments: The President is proposing to make permanent a tax cut he put forward and signed into law in 2010 that eliminates taxes on capital gains in key investments in small businesses.

Reward Job Creation with a New Jobs and Wages Tax Credit: The President is proposing a new tax credit for 2012 that would provide a 10 percent income tax credit on new payroll for small businesses—through either hiring or increased wages—added in 2012.

Double Deductions for Startup Expenses: The President is proposing to permanently double the amount of start-up expenses entrepreneurs can deduct from their taxes from $5,000 to $10,000.
Extend 100 Percent Depreciation: The President is proposing to extend 100-percent first-year depreciation for one year, effective for qualified property acquired and placed in service before January 1, 2013.

•Unlocking capital access for growing companies: The President is putting forward responsible measures that will help growing businesses access financing consistent with investor protections, including:

Expand Mini-Offering Limits: The President is calling to raise the offering limit under Regulation A from $5 million to $50 million, coupled with strong investor protections.

Crowdfunding: The President is calling for a national framework that allows entrepreneurs and small businesses to raise capital through “crowdfunding.”

Creating an “IPO on-ramp”: The President is calling for changes in how our current securities laws and regulations are phased in for smaller, young companies in their first years after going public in an initial public offering (IPO).

Expand the Small Business Investment Company Program: The President is calling to increase the SBIC program to allow for up to $4 billion in annual support.

•Relieving the backlog of immigrant visas: As put forward in his Blueprint for Building a 21st Century Immigration System, the President is proposing to:

•Eliminate Country-Specific Caps: The President is calling for a balanced approach to eliminate country-specific caps for certain immigrant visa categories to attract more high skilled foreign workers, including entrepreneurs.

In response to the President’s call for action on these issues last September, there has been growing bipartisan support for components of the President’s agenda, and the Administration looks forward to working with Congress to pass legislation without delay. To view details of the Startup America Legislative Agenda, click HERE.

Here are some additional commitments made to promote entrepreneurship and small businesses:

•New Challenges Fueling Regional Innovation: The Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is launching the third round of the i6 Challenge, which funds regional collaborations to bring innovative, ground-breaking ideas from the lab to the marketplace, creating new startups and jobs across the country. Commerce is also launching a new initiative to connect entrepreneurs with the resources made available through the Startup America Partnership and its partners.

•New Round of America’s Next Top Energy Innovator: The Department of Energy is kicking off a second year of America’s Next Top Energy Innovator, a program that dramatically reduces the cost and red tape facing startup companies that license federal energy technology. Up to 15,000 patents held by our national laboratories will be available for startups to license at a steep discount, representing a savings of $10,000 to $50,000.

•Building a Regional Mentor Network: The U.S. Small Business Administration will launch a series of regional events at accelerators and universities to build a network connecting participants in the high-growth entrepreneurial sector, with the goal of scaling new and growing existing mentoring programs for entrepreneurs.

•National Education Startup Challenge: The Department of Education is opening the doors of the National Education Startup Challenge, inviting students from 6th grade up to college age to develop an innovative solution to an education problem and design a blueprint for a new company or non-profit organization to deliver that solution. Winning students will be celebrated by senior White House and Department of Education officials and may qualify for additional recognition opportunities.

Rangel Honors National Black History Month

2012-02-01T20:21:18Z

New York, NY - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement in honor of Black History Month, which is observed during the month of February:

"Throughout February we recognize the lives and events of black pioneers who have made our country a truer nation of equality for all. Born in the midst of the Harlem Renaissance I am honored to come from and represent a congressional district that has such a rich black heritage. Through civic participation and urban culture Harlem has forever shaped our nation's history. It has been home to intellectual luminaries such as Langston Hughes, W. E. B. DuBois, Booker T. Washington, and classic musical performers like Harry Belafonte, Billie Holiday, Marian Anderson, Lena Horne and Ella Fitzgerald. On the stage of the Apollo Theatre, legendary musicians including Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington played their way into history. Spirited veterans Tuskegee airmen Lee Archer, Dabney Montgomery and Roscoe C. Brown flew with distinction during World War II.

This year we especially honor black women who have been trailblazers and leaders in the fight for racial equality and women’s rights. Their leadership, patriotism, and artistic expressions have enhanced and inspired countless lives. From leader of the Underground Railroad, Harriet Tubman, to American poet and Revolutionary War patriot Phillis Wheatley, journalist Ida B. Wells, the great educator and presidential advisor Mary McLeod Bethune, mother of the modern Civil Rights Movement Rosa Parks, to Matron of medicine Dr. Muriel Petioni, to visionary Dr. Barbara Ann Tier - black women through protest and perseverance have stood as a symbol of strength and pride in the face of injustice.

I am a proud sponsor of the Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act to honor the life and legacy of my dear colleague and first black woman elected to Congress in 1969. I am also a sponsor of resolutions in Congress honoring notable figures such as Madam CJ Walker, Ron Brown, Constance Baker Motley, Percy Sutton and Ray Charles.

Black history month is a time to learn about the achievements and contributions of blacks in our great nation’s history. During February, many community organizations are combining their efforts to host several events and exhibits. I encourage all to participate. Let's show our gratitude for the great contributions that blacks have provided to create the freedoms and opportunities we have today in America."

Events and Exhibits:

Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

Langston Hughes Auditorium and American Negro Theater.

515 Malcolm X Boulevard,

New York, NY

The Dream Inn - A Birthday Tribute to Langston Hughes

When: Wednesday, February 1, 2012, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Stage for Debate: Steve Stoute and William C. Rhoden with Danyel Smith

When: Thursday, February 2, 2012, 7 - 9 p.m.

First Fridays at the Schomburg

When: Friday, February 3, 2012, 6 - 8 p.m.

First Saturdays Family Fun

When: Saturday, February 4, 2012, 4 - 6 p.m.

What Would Derrick Bell Do? Critical Race Theory in the Age of Post-Black Seduction

When: Monday, February 6, 2012, 6 - 8 p.m.

Films & Dialogue: Brooklyn Boheme

When: Saturday, February 11, 2012, 4 - 6 p.m.

Lyrics From Lockdown

When: Saturday, February 11, 2012, 7 - 9 p.m.

Something for the People: Black History Month Film Series

When: Monday, February 13, 2012, 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Something for the Youth: Black History Month Film Series

When: Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Word Rapport: Black Cool & MAD Free Rebecca Walker and Michaela Angela Davis in Conversation

When: Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 6 p.m.

Something for the People: Black History Month Film Series

When: Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Something for the Youth: Black History Month Film Series

When: Thursday, February 16, 2012, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Performances at The Schomburg: Harlem Opera Theater

When: Thursday, February 16, 2012, 7:30 - 9 p.m.

Word Rapport: Harry Belafonte's My Song

When: Friday, February 17, 2012, 6 - 8 p.m.

The Indelible Influence of Malcolm X

When: Tuesday, February 21, 2012, 7 - 8:30 p.m.

African Film Festival

When: Thursday, February 23, 2012, 7 - 9 p.m.

NYC DEPARTMENT OF PARKS

Faith, Courage & Purpose: Artists of the Diaspora-Exhibition

When: February 2, 2012, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Where: Arsenal (in Central Park), Manhattan

Black History in Sports

When: February 6, 2012, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Where: Chelsea Recreation Center, Manhattan

The Black Latin Beat

When: February 6, 2012, 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Where: J.Hood Wright Recreation Center, Manhattan

Black History Month Family Program: Swing Dancing at MJM

When: February 21, 2012, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Where: Morris-Jumel Mansion (in Roger Morris Park), Manhattan

Black History Event

When: February 24, 2012, 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.

Where: Recreation Center Fifty-four (in Recreation Center 54), Manhattan

Black History Month Family Program: Swing Dancing at MJM

When: February 25, 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.

Where: Morris-Jumel Mansion (in Roger Morris Park), Manhattan

The New York Historical Society

170 Central Park West

New York, NY

Meet author Maira Kalman—Looking at Lincoln

When: Monday February 20, 2012, 1 pm

The Battle for Civil Rights

When: Thursday, February 16, 6:30 PM

Thirteenth Amendment Signed by Lincoln

When: February 1 through April 1, 2012

Rangel: Congress Must Focus On Real Issues

2012-02-01T17:41:05Z

Washington, D.C. - The following is a transcript of Congressman Charles Rangel's remarks on the House Floor today, February 1, 2012:

“In a place like the United States of America which was formed on the basis of freedom, especially freedom of religion, such a serious accusation made by one of our esteemed Members against the President of the United States -- condemning President Obama for persecuting religion in a very broad and general way -- should not be made."

"At a time when this country is facing fiscal as well as moral obligations to the most vulnerable people among us, I see the battle between the have and have-nots, the 1% and 99%. I hear the disputes as to whether or not the capitalistic system is fair, but I have always taken the position that the capitalistic system is an invitation of how Americans and others can invest and make money."

"The question of compassion, taking care of our own, jobs and the social issues of today is what Congress has a responsibility to deal with rather than condemning those who seek to get returns on their investments. We have a responsibility as human beings and God-fearing people to protect the vulnerable."

"The poorest of the poor are suffering more than the people that caused this fiscal crisis. If we are going to do something about the deficit, we just can't say we got to cut spending. Especially when that spending is for the lesser among us, for whom spiritual leaders have made vows to protect."

"We cannot cut spending for Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. We need to focus on education so people have the ability to get a job so that they not only have an income to support their family but also the dignity and respect that comes with being employed. We have to recognize that from an economic point of view it is the people that are in the Middle-Class who are slipping into poverty that makes the difference. I hope that in the future people will give more thought about such accusations when serious and real issues are occurring in our country.”