Melissa Bean for Congress: News

Bean Launches Congressional Accountability Initiative

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0700

CHICAGO – As part of her ongoing efforts to increase accountability and transparency in Congress, Congresswoman Melissa Bean announced a Congressional Accountability Initiative at a downtown Chicago press conference Thursday May 28.

“Democracy works best with an engaged and informed electorate,” Bean said. “Without easy access to the voting records of their elected officials, Americans cannot hold us accountable. Without increased oversight and further reform of the earmark process, we are less likely as a nation to exercise the fiscal responsibility and restraint required in this uncertain economy.”

The first bill, the Voting Record Transparency Act, H.Res. 1222, was introduced by Bean last week. This legislation directs the House Clerk’s office to make available individual voting records for all members of the House, and requires members to provide a link to their voting records on their taxpayer-funded official websites. Currently, the clerk lists only the roll calls for each vote. That means constituents who want to find out how their representative voted must look up the vote on each bill separately. Some members, including Congresswoman Bean, list a record of votes on key legislation on their websites. H.Res. 1222 will allow constituents nationwide to see how their representatives are voting on every bill.

“Most voters want to be informed when they go to the polling place, but it’s currently very hard to do,” Bean said. “It’s easier for American citizens to get a consumer guide that compares home appliances than it is to compare their representative’s voting record to their own priorities. This bill provides the kind of transparency that will change that.”

“Transparency is a critical part of a healthy democracy,” said Better Government Association Executive Director Jay Stewart, who joined Bean at the press conference. “Citizens should be able to find out how their Member of Congress voted on the important issues of the day.”

The second bill is the Bipartisan Earmark Reform Commission Act of 2008, H.R. 5755. Bean was an original cosponsor of the bill when it was introduced last month by Congressman Ron Kind (WI-03).

“Federal funding requests that target local projects are a vital method for ensuring that the unique needs of district communities are addressed,” Bean said. “But the potential for waste and abuse in the earmark process requires further reform. A bipartisan commission is needed to ensure that our tax dollars are not squandered and our highest priorities are being addressed.”

Earmark spending skyrocketed under previous Congresses. This Congress has already made strides in reducing earmark spending, cutting earmarks to $14.8 billion in FY 2008, down from the all-time high of $29 billion in earmarks in FY2006.

The Bipartisan Earmark Reform Commission Act would establish an independent, bipartisan commission, whose 12 members are appointed by the Speaker of the House, the House Minority Leader, the Senate Majority and Minority Leaders, and the President. The commission would be charged with investigating a number of factors relating to both congressional and executive earmark spending, including:

Disparities in earmark funding
The use of earmark funding for for-profit companies
The federal budgetary impacts of earmark spending
Whether current disclosure requirements are sufficient
Whether a merit-based system could be adapted; and
The effects of earmark funding on specific departments or agencies.

The commission is required to report recommendations to Congress and the President within 6 months, and Congress would be required to introduce legislation to implement the commission’s recommendations within 60 days of receipt.

“This Congress has already shown that reform is possible,” Bean said. “To advance Congressional transparency and accountability further, I urge my colleagues to support these non-partisan common-sense measures."

Bean Wins Small Biz Award

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Melissa Bean (IL-08) has earned the Small Business Council of America’s 2008 Congressional Award for her work on ensuring small business access to health and retirement benefits. It is Bean’s fourth pro-business award in as many months.

The Small Business Council of America (SBCA) represents over 20,000 small businesses across the nation on tax, health care, pension and other benefit issues. Its annual award is presented to only two members of each chamber of Congress. Bean earned this year’s award for her work on behalf of small businesses. She chairs the Small Business Committee’s Subcommittee on Tax and Finance and serves on the Financial Services Committee, where she championed small-business tax incentives in the 2008 Economic Stimulus bill.

“We are honoring Congresswoman Bean because of her dedication to assisting small businesses, including her willingness to jump into some of the most complicated provisions of the tax code, such as those dealing with retirement plans, in order to help small businesses,” said SBCA Chair Paula Calimafde. “Many give lip service to trying to understand complicated technical tax provisions, but Congresswoman Bean actually walks the walk. At the same time she understands what makes small businesses tick and how to promote their growth. It’s a rare combination.”

“I am honored to receive this recognition from the Small Business Council of America,” Bean said. “The majority of domestic jobs created are in the small business sector, and I am committed to providing a voice for our nations entrepreneurs. I will continue to promote policies that foster a growth environment for our community businesses, including access to affordable health care, availability of capital towards investment, and ensuring a level playing field in the global economy.”

Chairwoman Bean has held hearings to address concerns about access to and efficiency of the SBA loan programs and on ways to increase small business employee participation in retirement savings plans. She is a cosponsor of the Equity for Our Nation’s Self-Employed Act (H.R. 3660), which would allow the self-employed to deduct health insurance costs from their income taxes as a business expense, and allow them to forego paying payroll (FICA) taxes on these costs.

Bean is the author of the Small Business Lending Improvements Act (H.R. 1332), which would lower fees in the Small Business Administration’s flagship 7(a) loan program, increase lender participation and streamline the application process. The bill has passed the House and awaits Senate action.

The SBCA’s award is one of several that Bean has recently received for her work on business issues.

Earlier this month, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce announced that Bean received its “Spirit of Enterprise” award, presented annually to members of Congress based on their support for key business issues. Bean has won the award every year since coming to Congress in 2005.

Last month, the McHenry County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) presented Bean its “Transportation Champion” award for “working tirelessly” to secure federal funding for McHenry County transportation projects that area businesses depend on. Bean has secured over $19 million for transportation projects in McHenry County alone in recent years.

In January, the Lake County Chamber of Commerce gave Bean the “Fiscal Watchdog” award for her leadership in “bringing fiscal discipline to Washington” and consistently opposing tax increases.

Bean is a member of the Blue Dog caucus, which supports reduction of the national deficit and other fiscally conservative policies. Prior to her election to Congress, she spent 20 years in the high tech industry, running businesses in corporate America and her own consulting practice.

The SBCA award will be presented at a reception in Washington on May 7.

Bean Gets Chamber 'Spirit of Enterprise' Award

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700

WASHINGTON – For the third year in a row, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has recognized Congresswoman Melissa Bean’s work on behalf of small businesses by bestowing her with the “Spirit of Enterprise” award.

The Chamber presents the award annually to members of Congress based on their support for key business issues. Bean is a member of the Financial Services Committee and chairs the Small Business Committee’s Subcommittee on Tax and Finance.

“I appreciate the Chamber’s recognition, and I will continue to support our community’s small businesses, which are the cornerstone of our economy,” Bean said. “A climate that promotes business investment, access to capital and competitiveness will turn this economy around.”

Bean worked with Congressional leaders and administration officials as they crafted the Economic Stimulus Act earlier this year to ensure that small business tax incentives were included in the final package. As originally laid out in Bean’s GROW Act (H.R. 5107), the stimulus package included a provision doubling the Section 179 small business expense tax deduction, which allows small business owners to write off the purchase of new equipment immediately instead of depreciating expenses over many years.

“Representative Bean has proven to be an effective ally to the business community, supporting legislation that helps grow the economy and creates new jobs for hardworking Americans,” said Tom Donohue, Chamber president and CEO. “The Chamber is grateful for Melissa’s commitment to these important issues and is proud to present her with this award.”

The award was presented in Washington today.

Bean Announces Green Innovation Initiative

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700

CHICAGO – Congresswoman Melissa Bean (IL-08), joined by representatives from both the environmental community and the business world, introduced her “Green Innovation Initiative” during a downtown Chicago press conference today.

The trio of bills provides incentives to builders, businesses and homeowners to invest in green technology and green buildings.

“Green innovation promotes the economic growth, energy preservation and environmental protection future generations are counting on,” Bean said.

Also joining Bean at the press conference were Illinois Lt. Governor Pat Quinn, chairman of the Illinois Green Governments Coordinating Council, and Congressman Bill Foster (IL-14).

“Green building is an investment in our nation’s economic and environmental future,” Quinn said. “I am proud that the state of Illinois has been a national leader in promoting healthy, energy-efficient buildings that conserve our natural resources. I applaud Congresswoman Bean for her Green Innovation Initiative, and I hope our elected officials in Washington will move swiftly to pass these important bills into law.”

"As a scientist and businessman, I know that what works in the lab must also work in the business model if we are to successfully protect our environment while promoting economic growth,” Foster said. “I look forward to working with Congresswoman Bean on this legislation so that businesses can afford to go green.”

Environmental leaders and representatives from industry were also supportive of the bills.

"The Next Generation Homes Act proposed by Congresswoman Bean would not only reduce pollution and dependency on imported energy, but also promote homes with low utility bills as a way to protect the value of America's housing stock," said Mark Burger of the Illinois League of Conservation Voters.

"The U.S. Green Building Council - Chicago Chapter welcomes legislation that helps our region move towards more environmentally responsible building in the commercial and residential market and we are delighted to provide tools and education to assist individuals and organizations interested in qualifying for these proposed initiatives,” said Laureen Blissard, Chair of the USGBC – Chicago Chapter.

“People have looked to Sears Tower as a leader on building standards for years and we’re proud that the building's ownership has decided to accelerate efforts to reduce its impact on the environment,” said Robert A. Wislow, Chairman & CEO of U.S. Equities Realty, management and leasing agent for Sears Tower. “The HVAC depreciation initiative proposed by Congresswoman Bean is a smart business approach to providing incentives for buildings across the country to make environmental improvements to their systems. As we align Sears Tower with the United States Green Building Council’s LEED criteria, it's a piece of legislation we hope will pass. Sears Tower has also increased its waste recycling by 150 percent over the past six months, so we applaud the proposal to provide incentives for purchasing equipment for reuse of recycled materials.”

“We commend Congresswoman Bean not only for her vision of a sustainable future but also for her recognition of the economic challenges we face in our journey there. The tax incentives in this legislation will go a long way toward encouraging investment in more energy efficient HVAC systems in commercial buildings,” said Michael Cornicelli, executive vice president of the Building Owners and Managers Association of Chicago.

Bean announced the bills at the Sears Tower, which has made numerous investments in energy efficiency and is investigating others, such as planting green roofs on the skyscraper. Building managers U.S. Equities Realty and Sears Tower ownership are investigating additional ways more efficient heating and cooling systems can reduce the building’s energy use.

Bean’s Green Innovation Initiative consists of:

H.R. 5597, The Next Generation Homes Act, which promotes the construction and purchase of energy efficient homes.
$700 tax credit for building Energy Star Homes, which achieve 15 percent greater efficiency than a standard home under the 2004 International Residential Code
$2,000 tax credit for homes that are 30 percent more efficient than a standard home based on Home Energy Rating System (HERS) index.
$5,000 tax credit for homes that are 50 percent more efficient than a standard home based on the HERS index.
$10,000 tax credit for Zero Energy Homes according to the HERS index.
Assists homebuyers when the cost of an energy efficient home is greater than that of an equivalent traditional home by making that difference tax deductible.
H.R. 4574, The Commercial Conservation Act, which encourages investment in newer and more efficient HVAC systems in commercial buildings.
Changes the tax code to reduce the depreciation time for all commercial building HVAC units from 39 years to 25 years.
Depreciation time reduced to 20 years for units that are at least 10 percent more efficient than existing standards. (10 percent better than the standard under the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act of 1987, the Energy Policy Act of 2005, or the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-conditioning Engineers Standard 90.1).
H.R. 5372, Recycling Investment Saves Energy (RISE) Act, which would provide incentives for recycling companies to buy newer and better equipment.

Changes the tax code to provide a 50 percent accelerated depreciation allowance for companies to purchase advanced recycling technology which would increase the quality and quantity of recovered material.
All three bills have been introduced and are in committee. H.R. 5372 is cosponsored by Rep. Albio Sires (NJ-13). H.R. 4574 is cosponsored by Rep. Peter Hoekstra (MI-02).

Delegation Joins Bean to Oppose CN Rail

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700

WASHINGTON – In a bipartisan joint letter to the Surface Transportation Board, several members of Illinois’ Congressional delegation joined Congresswoman Melissa Bean (IL-08) in opposing Canadian National Railroad’s (CN) purchase of the EJ&E line.

“This letter is a clear signal to CN and to federal regulators that a consensus is building among lawmakers that this proposal has detrimental ramifications for the region,” Bean said. “I appreciate my colleagues joining me as we work to protect the families in Illinois.”

“We are concerned with the adverse impacts the proposed increase in freight traffic will have on many communities along the EJ&E,” the letter says. “Many communities unaccustomed to and ill-equipped to handle increased freight traffic are facing a four-fold increase. This increase will cause significant delays on already congested arterial roads in the collar counties. Additionally, first responders will be unable to respond quickly to emergencies in communities that will now be divided by trains nearly two miles in length.”

Joining Bean on the letter were Representatives Donald Manzullo (16th), Peter Roskam (6th), Judy Biggert (13th), Tim Johnson (15th), Jerry Costello (12th), and Bill Foster (14th). It was addressed to the Surface Transportation Board (STB), an independent federal agency which will ultimately approve or disapprove of the sale.

This letter follows a similar joint message from Bean and Senator Dick Durbin and incorporates past objections that Bean has raised, as well as a response to recent communication from CN’s CEO, Hunter Harrison.

CN announced its plans to purchase the EJ&E rail line in October 2007. CN has estimated freight traffic will increase on this line from 5 freight trains per day to about 20 per day through numerous suburban municipalities.

The increased freight traffic could have broad impacts on the region’s transportation, including significant delays to already congested arterial roads. Some commuters to northern Lake County towns like Antioch and Lake Villa could face huge backups along Illinois Route 59. Driving from Crystal Lake, Woodstock and McHenry into northern Cook County along U.S. Route 14 could also become much more difficult, effectively cutting McHenry County off from easy access to Chicago.

At Congresswoman Bean’s request, the STB has initiated an environmental review of the transaction. During the initial phase to determine scope of the impact, the STB saw an unprecedented turnout at its public meetings, with one meeting alone drawing over 1,500 people. Currently, the STB is summarizing comments from those public meetings.

In Memoriam: Patrick Botterman

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700

Melissa Bean released the following statement upon learning of the untimely passing of Patrick Botterman:

"I just saw Patrick yesterday at a lunch event with Mayor Daley. He was smiling and looked as healthy as any forty-four year old.

"I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear that he suffered a severe and fatal heart attack soon after. I'm wishing I had spent more time talking to our dear friend and coworker.

"Pat was dedicated to improving our community and country. He tirelessly served as Harper College Trustee and as Wheeling Township Democratic Committeeman.

"He was passionately committed to the ideals and advancement of the Democratic party. He believed that suburban voters should have real choices on their ballots and he worked hard for campaigns for change.

"Ahead of the curve, he envisioned and built the suburban Democratic party infrastructure and team that is now growing and strong.

"Without question, the recent and exciting growth in electoral and political engagement in the northwest suburbs has as much to do with Botterman's foundation as Obama's inspiration.

"What a tragic loss for all who knew him and had the honor of working beside him. We will miss his work ethic, immeasurable contribution, insights, and friendship."

Bean Presents Grant to Local First-Responders

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700

BARRINGTON – Congresswoman Melissa Bean presented Barrington-area first responders with a $493,500 federal grant to assist in the purchase of new communications equipment.

The federal grant, signed into law this year as part of the FY 2008 Consolidated Appropriations Act, helps pay for interoperable communications equipment – portable radios, mobile radios and consolettes – for the Barrington-Inverness Police Department, the Barrington Hills Police Department and the Barrington-Countryside Fire Department. Currently, these agencies have incompatible equipment, which prevents efficient communication with each other during emergencies. New interoperable communications equipment will allow seamless communication among area police and firefighters, and will allow the agencies to participate in the Illinois statewide first responder communications network, Starcom21. The funding was included in the bill at Congresswoman Bean’s request.

“The interoperable communications equipment this grant will allow us to purchase is invaluable to our police and fire first responders,” said Jeff Lawler, Chief of the Barrington Police Department. “It will allow them to quickly and easily communicate with the varied resources we use to attack public safety emergencies in our jurisdiction. The people of the Village of Barrington and its public safety agencies owe a great deal appreciation to Representative Bean and her Staff for their help and support in funding this crucial project.”

“Interoperability is key to modern police and fire communications,” Bean said. “I am proud to present this grant, which will help our local first responders protect the community more effectively and efficiently.”

Bean is 'Transportation Champion'

Fri, 07 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0800

CRYSTAL LAKE – The McHenry County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) presented Congresswoman Melissa Bean its Transportation Champion Award at an awards dinner Thursday evening at the Crystal Lake Holiday Inn.

“The MCEDC was founded on the transportation crisis in Algonquin and transportation has been a key focus of our organization since that time,” said MCEDC Chairman Charlie Eldredge. “Congresswoman Bean joined in with enthusiasm and untold effort to help us as soon as (she) took office and saw our needs. … The struggle to modernize our transportation infrastructure will take many years, but it is a comfort to know that (Congresswoman Bean) will work tirelessly to help us all along the way.”

Among the transportation projects that Congresswoman Bean has secured in House legislation for McHenry County are:

Preconstruction and Construction at Illinois Route 31 from Bull Valley Road to Illinois Route 176: $1,936,000.
Miller Road Widening and Improvement in McHenry: $6,614,000.
The continuation of US Route 12 from the Wisconsin state line to the intersection of Route 12, Illinois State Route 31, and Tryon Grove Road (Richmond Bypass): $3,050,000
Intersection Reconstruction at U.S. Route 12, Illinois Route 31, and Tryon Grove Road: $720,000.
Expansion & Upgrades to Metra’s UP-NW Line, including extension to Johnsburg: $7,375,000.

Bean said she’ll continue to work with local governments and community partners to help steer federal dollars where they’re needed most.

“McHenry County is one of the fastest growing counties in the nation, but our transportation infrastructure has not kept up,” Bean said. “I’ve enjoyed working closely with our area leaders to change that. I’m honored to receive your acknowledgement of my efforts on behalf of our community.”

Oversight Hearing Focuses on SBA Capital Program

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0800

WASHINGTON – As small businesses are finding it harder to access affordable capital in the private sector, Congresswoman Melissa Bean (IL-08), Chair of the House Small Business Committee’s Subcommittee on Tax and Finance, held an oversight hearing to ensure the Small Business Administration is doing all it can to ensure its loan programs are readily available.

“Access to capital is critical to small business investment, growth and competitiveness,” Bean said in her opening statement to the committee Wednesday. “The current downturn, rising loan foreclosures, and a falling housing market, have caused financial institutions to tighten their credit standards.

“The rising cost of capital can cause small businesses to forgo important purchases or expansion. This has the potential to reduce entrepreneurial activity in the short-term, and further hinder economic growth,” Bean said.

At a time when the Small Business Administration’s loan programs are more needed than ever, challenges facing the agency have resulted in reduced lender participation, lower loan volume to small businesses, and rising costs. The agency’s flagship 7(a) loan programs are seeing a decrease in dollar amounts and participating financial institutions. A new 7(a) oversight fee is being added and even more fees are proposed for next year.

To leverage the full power of the SBA’s financing programs, costs for the borrower must be contained and new ways to increase lender participation should be considered. Witnesses testified before the committee recommending specific steps for the SBA to do both. In addition, legislative proposals addressing some of those recommendations are pending. Chairwoman Bean’s Small Business Lending Improvements Act (H.R. 1332) would lower fees in the 7(a) loan program, increase lender participation and streamline the application process. Congressman Jason Altmire (PA-04) introduced the Small Business Investment Improvements Act (H.R. 3567), which would create a new program that increases financing options for start-up ventures. Both bills have passed the House and await action in the Senate.

Mental Health Parity Bill Passes

Wed, 05 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0800

WASHINGTON – Mental health insurance would be treated the same as medical and surgical insurance under legislation passed by the House of Representative 268 to 148 today with Congresswoman Melissa Bean’s (IL-08) support.

Bean, who helped introduce The Paul Wellstone Mental Health and Addiction Equity Act (H.R. 1424) as an original cosponsor, said the measure will end a longtime disparity in mental health coverage in employer-provided health care plans.

“Individuals who need mental health services suffer no less than those with physical ailments,” Bean said. “This bill provides important coverage for mental health problems, without being unduly burdensome to the business community.”

The legislation requires businesses that offer mental health and substance abuse disorder benefits to offer those benefits with the same financial and treatment provisions as the company’s medical and surgical insurance benefits. The bill does not mandate businesses to provide mental health coverage.

“Mental health problems affect the people you live with and work with every day, in every community,” said Bruce Anderson, President and CEO of Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital in Hoffman Estates. “For too long, the law has allowed mental health coverage to operate on a different footing from medical coverage, and most people don’t discover that until they have a crisis. Creating parity for mental health benefits will save businesses money and will strengthen families and communities.”

The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that the parity requirements would only increase direct health care costs by four-tenths of 1 percent. But as with other health insurance policies stressing preventative care, these costs are likely to be offset by other factors.

Depressed workers lose 5.6 hours per week of productive work time vs. 1.5 hours per week for non-depressed workers, costing employers an extra $31 billion per year, according to a 2003 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association. According to testimony before the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Health, every $1 invested in the treatment of alcohol addictions provides $2.60 in savings. Worker productivity increases while spending on treatment for alcohol-addiction-related health problems decreases.

“Policy that improves productivity and quality of life is good for employees and good for business,” Bean said.

This legislation does not apply to small businesses with 50 employees or fewer. It also contains a cost exemption. If the parity requirements cause a company’s health care costs to grow by more than 2 percent in the first year or more than 1 percent in additional years, the company can choose to be exempt from the parity requirements the following year.

Among the provisions of the bill:

Equity in financial requirements. Coverage must ensure that any financial requirements applied to mental health and substance-related disorders are no more restrictive or costly than the financial requirements on comparable medical and surgical benefits that the plan covers. Financial requirements include deductibles, co-payments, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket expenses.
Equity in treatment limits. Plans must also ensure that any treatment limitations applied to mental health and substance-related disorders are comparable to medical and surgical benefits that the plan covers. Treatment limitations include caps on the frequency or number of visits, limits on days of coverage, or other similar limits on the scope and duration of treatment.
Equality in out-of-network coverage. If coverage offers out-of network benefits for medical and surgical benefits, then it must also offer out-of-network coverage for mental health and substance-related disorders
Effect on State Mental Health Parity Laws. The bill would establish a federal baseline but permits states to go further. This bill would not supersede any state law that provides consumer protections, benefits, rights, or remedies stronger than those in this bill.
Accountability. The Government Accountability Office is required to produce reports studying the impact the bill has on health care costs, quality of care, and government health care spending.

If signed into law, H.R. 1424 would take effect in a company’s first health plan year that begins on or after January 1, 2009.

Durbin Joins Bean in Concerns Over CN Deal

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0800

WASHINGTON –Senator Dick Durbin of Illinois joined Congresswoman Melissa Bean (IL-08) in voicing their current opposition to Canadian National Railroad’s (CN) proposed purchase of the EJ&E line, and requested a meeting with company president E. Hunter Harrison to demand details of the proposal.

“An acquisition of this size will have a dramatic impact on the Chicago region for years to come,” the letter states. “At this point, Canadian National has not demonstrated a willingness to meet the needs of the communities along the EJ&E, provide long-term commitments to the region, or guarantee full cooperation with the proposed STAR Line and current Amtrak service, which leads us to oppose the acquisition as it stands today.”

The purchase, currently under review by the Surface Transportation Board, would result in up to a 400 percent increase in rail traffic along the EJ&E line, which cuts through many suburban Chicago communities. The increase will have a significant impact on traffic congestion on the region’s roads. CN’s proposal also threatens construction of the long-awaited suburb-to-suburb Metra STAR Line, and continuation of Amtrak’s popular and fast-growing Chicago-Carbondale-Champaign service.

“CN has said it is willing to fund its ‘fair share’ of mitigation efforts at ‘three or four’ grade crossings,” Bean said. “Well, there are nearly 140 crossings along the EJ&E route. That doesn't sound like a fair share to me.”

“Representative Bean and I have made our concerns about this purchase very clear,” said Durbin. “Without a commitment from Canadian National to invest in passenger rail efficiency and safety, Illinois communities and commuters stand to lose on this deal. While the Surface Transportation Board takes a closer look at the impact of the sale on residents, Amtrak and the STAR Line, it is essential that we continue this dialogue with Mr. Harrison.”

Bean and Durbin’s recent letter to CN incorporated longstanding objections that both lawmakers have held, as well as new feedback they received during a meeting of the Northwest Suburban Leadership Forum Feb. 21 in Schaumburg. At this meeting, the lawmakers led a discussion with mayors and managers from Schaumburg, Palatine, Hoffman Estates, Elgin and Rolling Meadows to address the proposed sale of the EJ&E, the ongoing crisis in the housing market and other issues.

CN announced its plans to purchase the EJ&E rail line in October 2007. CN has estimated freight traffic will increase on this line from 5 freight trains per day to about 20 per day.

In the Barrington area alone, there are eight crossings at street-grade level along the EJ&E tracks. The increased freight traffic could have broad impacts on the region’s transportation, including significant delays to already congested arterial roads. Some commuters to northern Lake County towns like Antioch and Lake Villa could face huge backups along Illinois Route 59. Driving from Crystal Lake, Woodstock and McHenry into northern Cook County along U.S. Route 14 could also become much more difficult, effectively cutting McHenry County off from easy access to Chicago.

This purchase must go through a review process with the Surface Transportation Board (STB), a federal agency, who will ultimately approve or disapprove of the sale.

At Congresswoman Bean’s request, the STB has initiated an environmental review of the transaction. During the initial phase to determine scope of the impact, the STB saw an unprecedented turnout at its public meetings, with one meeting alone drawing over 1,500 people. Currently, the STB is summarizing comments from those public meetings.

Simulous Bill Becomes Law

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0800

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Melissa Bean (IL-08) joined Congressional colleagues today at a White House ceremony to mark the President’s signing of H.R. 5140, the bipartisan economic stimulus package.

“This law is a critical shot in the arm for our faltering economy,” Bean said. “It will strengthen the economic health of our businesses, our nation and the families we represent. I was gratified at the chance to work with the administration and with leaders to see that my small business tax incentives were included in the bill, as those incentives will encourage businesses to increase investment and hiring in 2008.”

Bean, who worked with Congressional leaders and administration officials as they crafted the plan, previously introduced the GROW Act (H.R. 5107). The proposal included doubling the Section 179 small business expense tax deduction. This targeted and widely supported tax incentive is included in the final version of H.R. 5140.

The Section 179 deduction allows small business owners to write off expenses immediately instead of depreciating these expenses over many years. Current law allows businesses to write off up to $125,000. The GROW proposal, as now enacted, doubles that to $250,000 for 2008 only.

H.R. 5140 contains a number of other provisions meant to strengthen our economy. They include:

A tax cut for 130 million families: The package provides tax relief of up to $600 per individual and $1,200 per married couple, plus an additional $300 per child. Rebate checks could be sent as early as mid-May. An estimated 5.6 million Illinois families will receive a rebate check of $860 on average.
Increased affordable refinancing opportunities in the housing market: For 2008, the bill increases the Federal Housing Administration loan limits, expanding affordable mortgage loan opportunities for families at risk of foreclosure. Similarly, the measure includes a one-year increase in the loan limits for single family homes from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Enhanced bonus depreciation for businesses: The bill provides immediate tax relief for all businesses to invest in new equipment by speeding up depreciation provisions, so that firms can write off an additional 50 percent for investments purchased in 2008.

Bean Announces Children's Health Education Grant

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0800

WAUCONDA – A federal grant for children’s health education will help Wauconda students learn how to lead healthier lives, Congresswoman Melissa Bean (IL-08) announced Tuesday.

“This program helps children learn how to make healthier choices in their lives,” Congresswoman Melissa Bean said. “As a mother of two daughters, I know how hard it can be to teach children to put down the pizza and reach for a piece of fruit. At a time of rising childhood obesity rates, we need to work harder at teaching today’s children how to become tomorrow’s healthier adults.”

Funding for the Wauconda Obesity Prevention Project was included in Congress’ 2008 appropriations at Congresswoman Bean’s request. The $28,493 grant, distributed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion program, will be administered by Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital and Wauconda Community School District 118.

The funding allows the program to continue to include all 3rd, 4th and 5th grade classes at all three District 118 schools. The curriculum delivers comprehensive health education about nutrition and physical activity through three 30-minute physical education programs per week plus additional classroom time. Lessons are geared towards helping students pass the Presidential Fitness Challenge and students are given pedometers and breakfast diaries to monitor their progress. In the 2005-2006 school year, the program increased the number of students able to pass the Presidential Fitness Challenge. Participants’ average score on nutrition exams increased by 8 percentage points.

Rep. Bean Responds to State of the Union

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0800

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Melissa Bean (IL-08) released the following statement in response to President Bush’s State of the Union address:

“I was encouraged to hear the President tonight echo the bipartisan spirit that he demonstrated while working with Congress on the economic stimulus package, and which I’ve seen personally in working with Treasury Secretary Paulson. I’m particularly gratified that the small business provisions that I earlier introduced were included in the stimulus deal.

“I’m also encouraged to see the President express that environmental issues are a priority. However, I’d like to see his actions better reflect that. For instance, he still fought to protect $14 billion in oil subsidies when that money could have been better applied to the development of renewable energy resources.

“On Iraq, while we’re all encouraged by the recent military progress, the political progress that was promised has yet to be seen. Ultimately, that political reconciliation is up to the Iraqi people and not us.

“Overall, I’m hopeful that the President will use his final year in office to be as productive as possible on a bipartisan basis, and I’m ready to work with him toward that end.”

Bean Sweeps Newspaper Endorsements

Sun, 27 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0800

Congresswoman Melissa Bean has earned strong endorsements for re-election from area papers. Newspapers across the region praised her for her moderate, bipartisan approach to solving the problems facing our families and our nation.

The Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times, Daily Herald, Northwest Herald and Pioneer Press have all endorsed Melissa Bean in the February 5th primary. Here are some excerpts:

Chicago Tribune, January 15, 2008:

“… smart, centrist … willing to work across the aisle.”

Chicago Sun-Times, January 17, 2008:

“moderate, mainstream and a fiscal conservative … authored and led House passage of an Internet safety education program and co-sponsored initiatives to track sex offenders online."

Daily Herald, January 17, 2008:

“Bean works hard to connect with district residents and represents their interests well as a socially moderate, fiscally conservative Democrat concerned about Internet safety and consumer protection.”

Northwest Herald, January 24, 2008:

“Bean is not a tax-and-spend liberal. On the contrary, earlier this year Bean received the Fiscal Watchdog Award from the Lake County Chamber of Commerce. … Bean has earned the opportunity to be the Democratic candidate in November.”

Pioneer Press, January 10, 2008:

“Bean is a proponent of a bipartisan Congress, and who isn't after the years of party-line hostility? … Her party would be wise to her support her in the primary.”

Bean Bill Included in Stimulus Deal

Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0800

WASHINGTON – A major job-growth provision introduced by Rep. Melissa Bean was included in the stimulus deal announced Thursday, January 24 by Congressional leaders and the administration.

“This provision encourages business to invest immediately,” Bean said. “It meets the timely, targeted and temporary goals that economists and Congressional leaders are seeking. This will mean more jobs and more investment from our small businesses, which are the cornerstone of our community’s economy.”

Bean, who has worked with Congressional leaders and administration officials as they crafted the plan, introduced the GROW Act (H.R. 5107). The proposal included a doubling of the Section 179 small business expense tax deduction. This targeted and widely supported tax incentive is included in the stimulus deal announced Thursday.

The Section 179 deduction allows small business owners to write off expenses immediately instead of depreciating these expenses over many years. Current law allows for a write-off up to $125,000, the GROW proposal would double that to $250,000 for 2008 only. Again, this encourages business to invest immediately, as business owners could factor the tax savings into their spending plans as soon as the provision becomes law.

Congresswoman Bean spoke of a business owner in Illinois’ Eighth District, Chris Dahm, who has run a trucking company for 28 years. He put his expansion plans on hold and reduced the hours of some of his drivers because of concerns over the weakening economy.

The provisions proposed in the GROW Act would make a difference to his Woodstock-based business, Dahm said. If the incentives were passed, he would buy at least three new trailers and add five drivers and an office worker.

“If something like this came out,” Dahm said, “I’d go full speed.”

Bean said looked forward to supporting the proposal as it comes to the House, and urged the Senate and the President to act swiftly.

“I commend the leadership and the administration for their swift, bipartisan action to shore up the economy before it slides into a downturn,” Bean said. “This package will strengthen the economic health of our nation, our businesses and the families we represent.”

Tips to Save Energy Today

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0800

Easy low-cost and no-cost ways to save energy:

Set your thermostat comfortably low in the winter and comfortably high in the summer. Install a programmable thermostat that is compatible with your heating and cooling system.
Use compact fluorescent light bulbs.
Air dry dishes instead of using your dishwasher's drying cycle.
Turn off your computer and monitor when not in use.
Plug home electronics, such as TVs and DVD players, into power strips; turn the power strips off when the equipment is not in use (TVs and DVDs in standby mode still use several watts of power).
Lower the thermostat on your hot water heater to 120° F.
Take short showers instead of baths.
Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes.
Drive sensibly. Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) wastes gasoline

Bean Earns Fiscal Watchdog Award

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0800

U.S. Rep. Melissa Bean, D-Barrington, was given the Fiscal Watchdog Award by the Lake County Chamber of Commerce for her efforts to cut taxes and watch spending by Washington.

Despite the country's economic woes, she said, "We have a lot of opportunities to grow in the economy."

She said that while China and India are growing fast economically, they still lag behind in information technology and transportation.

"We need to continue to innovate as a country," she said, pointing to the need to invest in education, to improve health care and to fill manufacturing jobs vacated by retiring workers.

Bean-Backed Consumer Safety Bill Passes

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800

WASHINGTON – More independent testing for lead, stricter lead standards and greater resources for inspectors are all part of a major overhaul of consumer product safety regulations included in H.R. 4040, the Consumer Product Safety Modernization Act, which passed today in the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 407-0.

Congresswoman Melissa Bean (IL-08) cosponsored the legislation and helped introduce many of the provisions in a previous bill. Bean said the legislation is vital in wake of this year's surge of recalled toys and children's products.

"As the holiday season is upon us, we moms are earnestly trying to complete our gift purchases in time," said Bean, a mother of two. "This bill aligns with the priorities of parents in my district, ensuring that future holiday seasons won't be overshadowed by product safety concerns."

H.R. 4040 includes several provisions that originated in an earlier bill that Congresswoman Bean helped introduce: H.R. 3903, the Kids Toy Safety Act. Her parent-friendly provisions include:

Third-Party testing of children's products: The bill mandates pre-market testing of many children's products for lead and other hazards by certified laboratories.
Tracking labels to aid recalls: The bill requires manufacturers to place distinguishing marks on products and packaging of children's products to aid in recall of children's products.
Improved public notice: The bill improves public notice about recalls by disseminating recall information through the Internet, radio and television.

In addition, the bill includes broad provisions designed to protect American families in the new global marketplace:

Tougher lead standards: The bill bans lead beyond a minute amount in products intended for children under 12. Once fully phased in, the bill would lower the standard from 600 parts per million in total weight to 100 parts per million or trace amounts. It also mandates that the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) periodically review and revise this standard to require the lowest amount of lead that science and technology makes feasible to achieve.
Strengthens the Consumer Product Safety Commission: The bill creates a new power for CPSC to immediately share information about dangerous products with the public and ensures State public health agencies are kept informed.
Provides CPSC with more resources: The bill significantly increases CPSC resources to hire additional staff and for laboratory renovations, including $20 million to modernize the testing lab. The bill allots $80 million in additional operational funding for FY2009, $90 million for FY2010 and $100 million for FY2011.
Review of all standards on magnets: The bill also requires the CPSC to examine the current voluntary safety standards for toys, starting with dangerous magnets, and if these standards are found to be inadequate, mandatory standards must be adopted.
Prohibits the sale of recalled products: The bill prohibits the domestic sale or export of products that violate U.S. consumer product safety rules, are subject to mandatory or voluntary recalls, are designated an imminent hazard to public health and safety, or are designated as a banned hazardous substance.
Strengthens Enforcement Against Bad Actors: The bill increases the cap on civil penalties from $1.8 million to $10 million per person.

"The percentage of toys imported from China has more than doubled over the last 30 years," Bean said. "Over the same time, the number of employees at the Consumer Product Safety Commission has been cut in half. This defies common sense and must be addressed."

Bean, Kirk Sound Warning on Transportation Funding

Tue, 11 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800

CHICAGO – Representatives Melissa Bean (IL-08) and Mark Kirk (IL-10) sounded a warning on suburban transit funding Tuesday during a presentation of the 2007 findings of the Suburban Transportation Commission.

Bean said authorities with the Federal Transit Administration are unable to approve federal spending for budgeted projects because the ongoing budget challenges in Springfield have threatened the matching local funds that are required.

“The populations in our suburban districts are booming, offsetting the decline in population in the city,” Bean said. “Illinois jobs and growth are dependent on suburban infrastructure. That’s why Congressman Kirk and I are here today to urge our state leaders to find a workable solution that would provide the necessary matching funds to the federal grants already secured by the Illinois delegation.”

The Federal Transit Administration is withholding approval for a funding agreement with Metra that would pay for preliminary engineering of the planned expansion of service on the Union Pacific Northwest and Union Pacific West lines because the state legislature has not passed a capital funding bill that would provide the necessary matching funds. Without such a capital bill, the FTA will withhold funding and these projects will be delayed indefinitely.

Funds for these Metra projects and vital road projects were included in the 2005 Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act (SAFTEA), which set aside $6.2 billion in funds for Illinois rail and road projects

“The Illinois delegation secured these funds in 2005 because we knew these projects were vital for the suburbs and the region as a whole,” Bean said. “I hope our state leaders can come together in a bipartisan way, as the Congressional delegation did, to find a solution.”

Bean and Kirk, along with state and local leaders, created the bipartisan Suburban Transportation Commission in April 2007. Members include:

State Sen. Michael Bond
State Rep. Ed Sullivan Jr.
Mayor Maria Rodriguez, Village of Long Grove
Mayor Bill Gentes, Village of Round Lake
Charlie Eldredge, Executive Director, McHenry County Economic Development Corporation
Chris Robling, Jayne Thompson and Associates

The founding principles of the Commission are to educate key stakeholders and the public about the changing needs and demographics of the Chicagoland area, as well as develop new ideas for improving transportation opportunities in suburban communities. More than two-thirds of all Chicagoland residents now live in suburban Cook and the Collar Counties.

Bean Bill Builds 'Forever Families' for More Kids

Fri, 07 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800

LAKE VILLA – Congresswoman Melissa Bean (IL-08) announced Friday that she has introduced a bill to help families adopt older children by providing an annual $2,000 tax credit.

“So more children will know the love and security of ‘forever families,’ my bill will help families who are willing to adopt older children transition from foster care to adoption,” Bean said.

The Advocates Dedicated to Older Child Parental Tax Credit, or ADOPT Act creates an annual $2,000 tax credit for families that adopt children age 9 or older. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, of all the children adopted out of foster care, less than a third are children over the age of 9.

This credit, which would increase annually with inflation, expires when the child turns 18 and is in addition to the one-time adoption tax credit that already exists in federal law. That credit is $11,390 this year.

Bean was joined by Executive Director Mark McHugh and Senior Vice President David Fox of Kids Hope United, a child advocacy organization.

“Kids Hope United is proud to support Congresswoman Bean’s ADOPT Act because it encourages individuals to consider adopting older youth,” McHugh said. “Teenagers and sibling groups are typically the most difficult groups to find adoptive families for, but – just like younger children in the system – adolescents truly need a permanent family to support them, teach them life skills and love them unconditionally.”

Also supporting the bill was Donna Cole of Zion, who has adopted eight children with her husband Jerome, including one who was 13 when adopted.

“It is very hard to imagine a child growing up never having someone to call their daddy or mommy,” Cole said. “Foster children want to be adopted, they want permanency, they want to be loved, and they want to belong. Whatever anyone can do to help foster parents become adopting parents is something that benefits everyone.”

Bean introduced the bill this week in the House of Representative, where it will be sent to the Ways and Means Committee.

Bean Supports Energy Bill

Wed, 05 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Melissa Bean (IL-08) released this statement in anticipation of her vote to support the Energy Independence and Security Act ( H.R. 6)

"This bill is critical to future generations. The Energy Independence and Security Act is important to my children and yours because it enhances our renewable fuel production goals and creates a more secure and sustainable future by moving us from an oil dependence requiring $200 billion of oil imports per year to development of innovative next-generation bio fuels.

"When this bill becomes law, American children will be more secure economically, militarily and environmentally, and the world will inherit a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable planet."

EMILY's List Endorses Rep. Melissa Bean in Illinois' 8th Congressional District

Tue, 27 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0800

EMILY's List Endorses Rep. Melissa Bean in
Illinois’ 8th Congressional District

Washington, DC - EMILY's List, the largest financial resource for women running for elected office, today announced its support for Rep. Melissa Bean in her bid for re-election to the United States House. EMILY’s List will recommend Melissa Bean to its members nationwide, opening the door to tens of thousands of donors who consider it extremely important to send this hard-working Congresswoman back to Washington for a third term.

“Melissa Bean epitomizes the kind of practical leadership we need in Congress,” said Ellen R. Malcolm, president of EMILY's List. “She understands her district and will to stand up and fight for working families, small business owners, and local communities. The Republican Party insists that Rep. Bean remains a top target in 2008 and EMILY’s List will vigorously defend her re-election. It is vital that Rep. Bean remain in the United States House and continue to represent the 8th district.”

First elected in 2004, Rep. Bean is a demonstrated leader and has used her extensive background as a businesswoman and active community member to best serve her district in Congress. While in office, Rep. Bean has worked to protect our families, support small business, encourage fiscal responsibility, and protect America’s future by supporting national defense and strengthening homeland security. In addition to obtaining considerable funding for local transportation improvements, Rep. Bean has secured millions of dollars in federal funding for local environmental protection projects and for police and firefighters in the district.

She is the first Democrat to represent this competitive northern Illinois district since its formation in 1935 and, as a member of the Blue Dog Coalition and the New Democrat Coalition, she continues to be a strong, independent voice for her district. She currently serves on the House Committee on Small Business, where she is Chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Tax, Finance, and Exports. She also serves on the House Financial Services Committee.

“I am very proud to once again have the support of EMILY's List and their members,” said Rep. Bean. “I have had the honor of serving in the United States House for two terms, working as an advocate for the 8th district and making tough decisions based on the needs of my constituents and all Americans. I look forward to continuing this rewarding and important work in 2008.”

With more than 100,000 members across the country, EMILY's List is the largest political action committee in the nation. Since its founding in 1985, EMILY's List has raised over $240 million to elect 67 pro-choice Democratic women to the U.S. House, 13 to the U.S. Senate, and eight governors. Over the course of 22 years, EMILY's List has helped elect hundreds of pro-choice Democratic women to federal office, state legislatures, state constitutional offices, and other key local offices.

Bean Praises Passage of Mortgage Reform Bill

Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0800

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Melissa Bean (IL-08) was proud to join her colleagues in the House of Representatives Thursday, passing the Mortgage Reform and Anti-Predatory Lending Act of 2007, H.R. 3915.

Bean is an original cosponsor of the bill, which passed with strong bipartisan support by a margin of 291 to 127. H.R. 3915 was designed to preserve access to credit for those pursuing home ownership while ensuring necessary oversight and accountability in the mortgage industry.

On the House floor Thursday, Bean urged her colleagues to support H.R. 3915, emphasizing that it was one of the most important and balanced bills to come before Congress this year because Americans’ homes are so central to their lives.

“Families save and sacrifice to come up with a down payment toward the most significant and personal investment they will ever make. They raise their families there, dream their American dreams, and they look forward to a retirement secured by the equity they have established,” Bean said. “When house prices fall, when access to credit tightens, those dreams are threatened. And for some, dreams are destroyed by foreclosure.”

The Mortgage Reform and Anti-Predatory Lending Act addresses many of the concerns held by families in Illinois’ 8th District. Many local homeowners have told Congresswoman Bean that they are worried about making their monthly mortgage payments, while even more are concerned about being able to sell their homes in an uncertain market.

By including better consumer protections, simpler disclosures and greater market certainty — particularly in the secondary market — H.R. 3915 seeks to improve market conditions for all homeowners.

The legislation also includes provisions from a bill initially introduced by Congresswoman Bean to educate homeowners about negative amortization loans, which can increase the outstanding principal balance and reduce a borrower’s equity in the home.

Bean’s provisions call for mortgage originators to inform homebuyers if a loan includes negative amortization and require any first-time sub-prime borrower who chooses such a loan to receive credit counseling.
In addition, H.R. 3915 includes comprehensive measures to address problems in the housing market. This legislation will:

Discourage riskier loan practices and offerings like negative amortization, deceptive teaser ARMs and excessive prepayment penalties.
Set minimum underwriting standards for all mortgages.
Enhance consumer protections for borrowers of “high cost loans” and for renters of foreclosed Call for licensing and registration of all mortgage originators.

Bean, Madigan, Law Enforcement Promote Internet Safety Education

Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0800

HOFFMAN ESTATES – With Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan, Illinois State Police and others standing in support, Congresswoman Melissa Bean (IL-08) urged swift Senate action on a package of recently passed Internet safety bills, including her own, SAFER NET, H.R. 3461.

"The Internet has transformed our society and our economy. I'm always encouraged to see how readily our children take to the Internet, as it will be a vital tool for them when they grow up," Congresswoman Bean said. "But the Internet is not a toy. It holds real dangers for children. We have to be sure that as our children explore the online world, we also teach them how to be safe, and we pursue those who would do them harm."

Attorney General Madigan, who has been aggressive in her efforts to bring Internet safety education to all Illinois parents and children, praised Bean's legislation. Madigan and her staff routinely provide Internet safety programs at Illinois schools.

"Online safety is now an essential part of a child's' education," said Attorney General Madigan. "Congresswoman Bean's legislation will ensure that Internet safety outreach and education efforts have the necessary resources to be successful."

Madigan and Bean spoke at Eisenhower Junior High School in Hoffman Estates. They were joined by the Illinois State Police, local law enforcement, school officials and students.

SAFER NET, or the Safeguard America's Families by Enhancing and Reorganizing New and Efficient Technologies Act, has three components. First, it authorizes $5 million for a national public awareness campaign through the Federal Trade Commission. The campaign will include some common sense tips on how to protect your bank account, your identity and your children from victimization on the Internet.

Second, the bill calls on the FTC to become a national clearinghouse for existing resources on Internet safety, making it easier for schools and parents to find reliable information. Federal government resources, non-profit sites, local and national law enforcement resources will all be linked through the FTC's existing OnGuardOnline program. Information will be available at http://onguardonline.gov/ .

"The FTC stands ready to expand its existing public education campaign on Internet safety – OnGuardOnline.gov – as envisioned by Representative Bean's legislation," said FTC Midwest Region Staff Attorney Bill Hodor.

Third, the bill encourages increased industry accountability, by establishing a working group through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to review and evaluate industry efforts to promote online safety and protect children from inappropriate material online.

Bean's bill is part of an Internet safety initiative moved by the U.S. House last week, which included passage of two other bills she was proud to cosponsor.

Bean helped introduce H.R. 3845, the PROTECT Act (Providing Resources Officers and Technology to Eradicate Cyber Threats to our Children Act). The bill, authored by Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) will build a strong nationwide network of highly trained law enforcement experts to track down known sex offenders. It provides resources for following offenders' Internet footprints online.

Bean is also a co-sponsor of H.R. 719, the KIDS Act (Keeping the Internet Devoid of Sexual Predators Act). The bill, authored by Rep. Earl Pomeroy (D-ND), requires sex offenders to register their e-mail and instant message addresses with the National Sex Offender Registry, as they now register their physical addresses.

On the state level, Madigan earlier this year unveiled the Internet Safety Education Act, which takes effect in January 2008 and is designed to encourage Illinois schools to adopt an age-appropriate Internet safety curriculum for student in grades K through 12. She also partners with key organizations throughout the state, including the Illinois State Alliance of YMCAs and the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, to expand the reach of Internet safety education. Her office has developed new training tools for law enforcement officials focusing on the potential problems caused by emerging social networking Web sites aimed at very young children, such as Club Penguin and Webkinz, which create the risk that children as young as six will begin to feel comfortable chatting with strangers online.

Bean Internet Safety Bill Passes

Wed, 14 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0800

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Melissa Bean’s Internet safety bill, SAFER NET, passed the U.S. House of Representatives Tuesday night by a vote of 398 to 6.

The bill, H.R. 3461, is the first of its kind to call for creation of a national education campaign on Internet safety. Congresswoman Bean, a mother of two, said she has heard from parents across Illinois’ 8th District about the need for more help in protecting their families from predators lurking on the Internet.

“This started for me with my own kids,” Bean said. “They were using social networking sites and had no idea of the potential risks. Our nation has learned how to educate kids about ‘stranger danger,’ and we’ve taught them how to avoid trouble when they’re at the park and walking home from school. But with today’s Internet society, the playground has gotten much bigger.”

SAFER NET, or the Safeguard America’s Families by Enhancing and Reorganizing New and Efficient Technologies Act, has three components. First, it authorizes $5 million for a national public awareness campaign through the Federal Trade Commission. The campaign will include some common sense tips on how to protect your bank account, your identity and your children from victimization on the Internet.

Second, the bill calls on the FTC to become a national clearinghouse for existing resources on Internet safety, making it easier for schools and parents to find reliable information. Federal government resources, non-profit sites, local and national law enforcement resources will all be linked through the FTC’s existing OnGuardOnline program. Information will be available at http://onguardonline.gov/ .

“Entering ‘Internet safety’ into a Google search gives you 169 million possible entries,” Bean said. “There are plenty of good resources out there. But we have to help people find them.”

Also, the bill encourages increased industry accountability, by establishing a working group through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to review and evaluate industry efforts to promote online safety and protect children from inappropriate material online.

Bean’s bill is part of an Internet safety initiative moved by the House this week, which included passage of two other bills she was proud to cosponsor.

Bean helped introduce H.R. 3845, the PROTECT Act (Providing Resources Officers and Technology to Eradicate Cyber Threats to our Children Act). The bill, authored by Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) will build a strong nationwide network of highly trained law enforcement experts to track down known sex offenders. It provides resources for following offenders’ Internet footprints online.

Bean is also a co-sponsor of H.R. 719, the KIDS Act (Keeping the Internet Devoid of Sexual Predators Act). The bill, authored by Rep. Earl Pomeroy (D-ND), requires sex offenders to register their e-mail and instant message addresses with the National Sex Offender Registry, as they now register their physical addresses.

Both bills passed Wednesday.

Bean on Obama Win in Iowa

Sun, 04 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0700

Melissa Bean released this statement following Senator Obama's historic win in Iowa:

"Senator Obamas authentic voice and sincere focus on the concerns of people, not parties, connected with Iowans and will appeal to all Americans.

His outreach to those who aren't political, particularly independents and young people, is exciting and shows how an engaged electorate can make a difference.

Illinoisans are proud to see our own senator's common sense solutions resonate nationally. Today Iowans overwhelmingly chose ideas over ideology."

Member Moms

Sat, 07 Apr 2007 00:00:00 -0700

Not only do these three House Democrats share a row house, they also know what it’s like to juggle motherhood and a congressional career.

Bean Prevails

Wed, 08 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0800

By Christi Parsons and Liam Ford, Chicago Tribune staff reporters

Republican Peter Roskam captured a narrow victory over Iraq war veteran Tammy Duckworth late Tuesday, staving off a Democratic upset in one of the country's most expensive and intensely watched congressional races.

But U.S. Rep. Melissa Bean (D-Ill.) won her hotly contested race for re-election in the north and northwest suburbs late Tuesday to join her party's takeover of the House of Representatives.

After a campaign season framed as a referendum on Republican leadership, Democrats in several key congressional races made inroads with suburban voters.

The race for U.S. Rep. Mark Kirk's North Shore seat turned out to be much closer than strategists had expected, with Kirk, a staunch Bush supporter, declaring victory over Democratic businessman Dan Seals late in the evening. With nearly three-quarters of the precincts counted, Kirk had about 53 percent of the vote.

Duckworth, a combat veteran and war critic, drew backing from powerhouse national Democrats and fundraising support from all over the country, while Roskam, a social conservative, rallied the traditionally right-leaning faithful in DuPage County.

"This victory tonight is not a victory for Peter Roskam," he told supporters. "It is a victory for all of us, for a values system we hold dear."

Farther west, a local backlash against House Speaker Dennis Hastert failed to materialize, as the Republican veteran claimed victory. Even as he won re-election in his congressional seat, however, Hastert's leadership in Congress appeared to slip away as key House seats around the country changed hands from Republican to Democrat.

"It's kind of tough out there," Hastert acknowledged late in the evening. Still, he said, "We're very happy with our victory here tonight . . . Not many people have the honor and the privilege to serve a district as great as this for 11 terms."

In declaring her victory, Bean sounded a more triumphant note.

"I just heard the Democrats have taken the majority in the House," Bean told a crowd of cheering supporters in a Hoffman Estates hotel. "The best news is, I get to be in it."

U.S. Rep. Rahm Emanuel, winner in the 5th Congressional District and architect of the Democratic takeover, declared a "new era of reform" Tuesday night. Still, the midterm elections did not portend radical change in the face of the Illinois congressional delegation.

Phil Hare, the Democratic aide to retiring Rep. Lane Evans (D- Ill.) was leading in his race for the Downstate and northwestern Illinois seat, and Republican Roskam was in the running to replace the GOP stalwart Rep. Henry Hyde. Elsewhere, incumbent members of Congress from Illinois seemed headed toward re-election.

Bean's race was one of the most competitive in the country this fall, as business interests poured money into the campaign of the centrist Democrat, and Republican businessman David McSweeney helped to fund his own race.

Convinced that Bean's upset victory over a Republican incumbent two years ago was a fluke, McSweeney put more than $2.3 million of his money into the race, believing his fiscally and socially conservative views were a better match for the district's residents.

The National Republican Congressional Committee chipped in more than $2.4 million, mostly to run negative TV ads attacking Bean for what they said were liberal attitudes on Social Security and immigration reform.

The wild card in the race was third-party candidate Bill Scheurer, a Lindenhurst resident and former Democrat who made his anti-Iraq War views the cornerstone of his campaign. Scheurer appeared to have garnered about 5 percent of the vote.

In another closely watched race, Duckworth came to serve as an emblem of the war's toll on the nation, and she drew support from all over the country. National Democrats recruited her to run and funded her campaign, promoting her not only as an inspirational figure but also one who could speak volumes about the president's foreign policy without ever saying a word. Duckworth, a helicopter pilot, lost both of her legs to a rocket-propelled grenade outside Baghdad, and she alternately uses a wheelchair and prosthetic legs.

Her Democratic patrons maintained that her close run in heavily Republican DuPage County sent a strong message about U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.

"Clearly the American people want a change in direction in Iraq, a change in direction when it comes to America's domestic politics," said U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), who recruited Duckworth to run. "They are not happy with one-party rule in Washington, and they are looking for a Congress that will produce results to help American families."

Citing a razor-thin margin, Duckworth said her campaign had broken new ground in the western suburbs.

"We built an organization in DuPage County the likes of which has never existed," Duckworth said.

During the campaign, Duckworth didn't talk about the war much, instead emphasizing her positions on a host of issues and criticizing Roskam as an extreme conservative on social issues from gun control to stem-cell research. Roskam also avoided talking about the war, repeatedly declaring that the race was about local issues.

Kirk's race turned out to be surprisingly close, especially for a popular Republican who faced only nominal opposition in his last two bids for re-election. Seals managed a last minute surge by raising more than $1 million for his campaign, and Republicans had resorted to running negative ads in recent days.

In that race, too, the war emerged as a key issue. Seals argued in favor of an immediate withdrawal of American troops, saying the U.S. could fully retract by next year.

But Kirk, a commander in the Navy Reserve who backs the Bush administration, said he didn't think Seals' pullout plan was a good strategy. He focused instead on local issues, including protection of Lake Michigan, saving the North Chicago veterans' hospital and increasing commuter rail service.

"I thought this was going to be a difficult year for a number of folks on my side," Kirk said. "But the independent nature of this district came through. As a social moderate who was fighting for his district, a leader on the environment and education, we came through."

Around the Chicago area, the majority of challengers did not fare well.

Democrat incumbents who had big leads at the polls included Reps. Jan Schakowsky, Dan Lipinski, Bobby Rush, Luis Gutierrez, Danny Davis and Jesse Jackson Jr.

Rep. Judy Biggert (R-Ill.) was leading her Democratic opponent, Woodridge lawyer Joseph Shannon.

Rep. Jerry Weller, a Republican from Morris, overcame a stiff challenge by Democrat John Pavich, an attorney who formerly worked for the CIA.

Pavich called on Weller to give up his seat on the House International Relations Committee, saying his recent marriage to a Guatemalan legislator who is the daughter of a former dictator presented a conflict of interest.

But Weller, a former state representative, said he had consulted the House Ethics Committee before marrying Zury Rios Sosa in 2005, and that his marriage did not present a conflict because he recuses himself on matters that deal specifically with Guatemala.

Tribune staff reporters Susan Kuczka, James Kimberly, John Biemer, Tony Yang Kristin Samuelson and Michael Hawthorne contributed to this report ELECTION COVERAGE '06