Congress Accomplished More Than You Realize

Your recent editorial alleging that the 109th Congress didn't get much done ("The GOP Record," Oct. 2) was off the mark. From the business community's perspective, it was one of the most productive sessions in recent memory.

 

Consider: transportation reauthorization directed much-needed resources to the nation's infrastructure; The Class Action Fairness Act discouraged frivolous lawsuits; the Dominican Republic-Central American Free Trade Agreement lowered trade barriers for U.S. companies; and legislation was passed that increased small business expensing, strengthened the pension system, stiffened anti-counterfeiting laws, and reformed the bankruptcy code. 

 

While achieving a great deal, this Congress did leave a lot on the table, including comprehensive immigration reform, extension of vital tax cuts, and implementation of  a national energy strategy. But on the whole, it was more "can do" than "do nothing."

 

Thomas J. Donohue
President and CEO
U.S. Chamber of Commerce