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 Preshow #1 BradleyReturn to index of stories... |
Now on New Hampshire Outlook: From Washington to the Granite state. We check in with New Hampshire Congressman Jeb Bradley about the progress and pitfalls of the 109th congress. |
| Preshow #2 Society Return to index of stories... |
And later, the cherry blossoms in the nation's capital, and their tie to a group from the Granite State. |
| Intro Rep. Bradley Return to index of stories... |
Hello. I'm Beth Carroll. Welcome to New Hampshire Outlook. This year Congress has debated Social Security and tax reform, wrangled over an energy bill, and struggled with the politics of life and death. The near-end of this session is a great time to catch up with our Congressional delegation. We've invited all 4 of our elected officials to join us over the next few weeks. In this program, we're talking with 2nd Term Congressman Jeb Bradley, a Wolfeboro Republican who represents the 1st District. Welcome! We begin with a look at the big picture. According to the latest CBS News Poll. The War in Iraq tops the list of problems cited by Americans. The Economy, Social Security, Terrorism , health care, gas prices and heating oil follow. 42-percent of Americans polled say Other problems dominate the landscape. Q Congressman Bradley: We just saw a SNAPSHOT of the issues of importance NATIONALLY. You hold a lot of TOWN meetings, -- certainly hear from CONSTITUENTS. What's your sense as to the ISSUES of importance here in NH? Q SOCIAL SECURITY -- makes every list. It's an issue PRESIDENT Bush has made a TOP priority in his 2nd term. |
| Social Security 1 Return to index of stories... |
Social Security -- makes every list. It's an issue President Bush has made a TOP priority in his 2nd term. In February, The President returned to New Hampshire to sell his plan for privatizing parts of Social Security. He spoke about Private Retirement accounts -- a bedrock principle of his overhaul plan. At the time, polls showed 54-percent of New Hampshire residents were OPPOSED to private accounts. Since then, the President's proposal has also gotten a chilly reception on capital hill and with the public elsewhere. Q You were not at Pease -- when President Bush came to town --you were voting in Washington. There was a lot of talk that YOU were the suggested AUDIENCE for his visit --as the only member of NH delegation NOT to embrace his plan. ** Where do you STAND on the President's plan to overhaul the Social Security system? Still your STAND? Q Did you feel any PRESSURE from the White House on this issue? Q Apparently the White House is signaling a willingness to COMPROMISE on the private retirement accounts -- Possible add-on accounts -- which would not divert payroll taxes to finance. Your THOUGHTS. Q Are you hopeful there will be some sort of Social Security REFORM in the President's 2nd term? Are their bi-partisan efforts being made on an overhaul plan? |
| Iraq War/Visit PM fs Return to index of stories... |
Let's Talk about Iraq -another issue of TOP concern. You recently traveled there with a group of 5 members of Congress -- where you met with Iraq's newly elected Prime Minister. Insurgent violence is on the rise, and so is "political bickering" as Iraqi Lawmakers try to finalize the country's new transitional government. Q Did you gain any INSIGHTS into what's going on there in terms of forming the new government? ** The writing of the final consitution was slated for completion Aug 15th, is that going to happen? Q While in Iraq- You also meet with troops from New Hampshire. The question everyone asks is HOW long will our troops be needed in Iraq. ** How long will it take to TRAIN Iraqi forces to take over the country's security? Q SERVICES held recently for a Nashua soldier -- killed in early April ** There have been concerns all along about armour on vehicles -has that been addressed??? Q How was MORALE of the troops you saw? Q What did you hear from soldiers you spoke with? |
| Bradley Dining Return to index of stories... |
First District Congressman Jeb Bradley dines with New Hampshire soldiers at the 3rd Infantry Division "Tiger Division" Dining Facility in Iraq. |
| Bradley with Cpl fs Return to index of stories... |
Congressman Bradley meets Cpl. James of Errol, New Hampshire. |
| Bradley/Camp fs Return to index of stories... |
Congressman Bradley poses for a picture with New Hampshire soldiers at Camp Victory in Iraq. |
| Bradley Chopper fs Return to index of stories... |
Congressman Bradley flies in a blackhawk helicopter with other members of the Congressional Delegation to the Green Zone in Iraq. |
| Shipyard rolling rally Return to index of stories... |
When you talk about our nation's defense -- around here -- people think of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Come May 13-th we should know if the shipyard has been targeted for closure. On a rainy Saturday in April-- some 500 people from both Maine and NH came out to express their support for the shipyard -- and the 4-thousand jobs at stake. The Pentagon wants to shut-down as many as 25-percent of the nation's military installations as part of the Base Re-alignment and Closure process. There is mounting fear the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard will be on that list. Q Cong Bradley: The shipyard dodge a bullet in 95 -- but there seems to be a gnawing sentiment It won't be so LUCKY this time around. How vulnerable to closure is it ???? Q What if ANYTHING can be done -- if the Portsmouth Yard makes the LIST? Q Any discussions on CONTINGENCY plans -- should it make the LIST? q How devastating will that be to the STATE'S economy? |
| Energy Bill Return to index of stories... |
When you talk about Pocket Book issues -- GAS prices certainly come to mind. As prices at the pump "surge" well-over 2-dollars a gallon -- An ABC NEWS/Washington Post poll shows that 34-percent of Americans place the blame on the President--and Republicans. If you're looking for immediate RELIEF -- you won't find it in the Energy Bill --recently PASSED by the HOUSE. Q CONG BRADLEY: Where did you come down on the Energy Bill ? and WHY? Q What about the provision in the bill regarding M-T-B-E, a gasoline additive that is contaminating drinking water. ** Will states LOSE the right to sue makers of MTBE for expensive clean up costs? Q If current Legislation PASSES in the Senate -- How will that IMPACT NH??? ** Bill calls for oil drilling in an Alaska Wildlife Refuge -- as well as shields makers of MTBE. Is that likely to meet STRONG opposition in Senate. Q President praised Energy bill saying it will reduce our dependence on FOREIGN oil. does this?? gas prices? To that you would say? Q Expectations for the Bill?? Q Democrats call the bill a special interest give-away that hurts the environment and does nothing to reduce |
| Schiavo Return to index of stories... |
Life and Death issues were front and center in March -- when the president signed emergency legislation -- passed by Congress --aimed at saving the life of Terri Schiavo -- the brain damaged Florida woman whose feeding tube had been removed. The measure empowered a U-S judge to order the re-insertion of a feeding tube. But, a federal judge "denied" the request. Schiavo died days later. Varying polls show that anywhere from 70 to 82-percent of Americans believe it was INAPPROPRIATE for Congress to get involved in the case. The public believes the government needs to "stay out" of decisions like the oneTerri Schiavo's relatives faced. Q You MISSED that Vote -- you were in Colorado at a memorial service at the time-- But, you've indicated you WOULD have SUPPORTED the Schiavo Legislation. WHY??? ** Doesn't that fly in the face of STATE RIGHTS??? Q At the time TOM DELAY, the House Majority Leader talked about the Judiciary THUMBING their noses at Congress -- and hinted at impeachment proceedings for judges??? |
| Tom Delay Return to index of stories... |
House Majority Leader Tom Delay is embroiled in an ETHICS controversy --. Yet, House Republicans continue to THROW their support behind him. Q Do you SUPPORT Tom Delay in his leadership role? Q Democrats are upset over the new GOP-written rules for investigating lawmakers --pushed thru on a party-line vote over Democratic objections. They say the new rules -- were designed to PROTECT Delay. You voted FOR those rules changes??? ============== Q Due to new CENSUS figures, New England stands to lose 20% of its congressional seats. Not here in NH but elsewhere. WILL that threaten the regions' POLITICAL CLOUT??? Q What's happening on TAX reform? Q You voted to PERMANENTLY REPEAL the death TAX -- now before Senate. WHAT will that do for NH? Q BETH: Congress breaks on May 27 for its Memorial Day recess. Any predictions on what we're likely to see happen before then. Any closing remarks -- CONGRESSMAN JEB BRADLEY --THANK YOU!! |
| Intro nh state society Return to index of stories... |
There's a group in Washington D-C that works to bring together those with ties to New Hampshire. It's a non-profit organization called the New Hampshire State Society, dedicated to serving the interests of those from the Granite State. Members consist of current and former state residents, graduates of NH colleges and universities or anyone with a connection to the state. |
| Tag nh state society Return to index of stories... |
Boston University students studying in Washington -- compiled this story for us. They tell us there are 48 active State Societies across the country and that membership in the NH chapter has increased dramatically in the last 4 to 5 years. If you'd like to learn more about the New Hampshire State Society you can log on to our website, nhptv.org/outlook for a link to their site. You can also find streaming video of NH Outlook on-line, on-demand. |
| Goodnight Return to index of stories... |
That concludes our program. Thanks for watching. I'm Beth Carroll. We'll see you next time. |
| Tonight 10:00 Return to index of stories... |
Tonight on New Hampshire Outlook: We'll take you inside the new ballpark for the New Hampshire Fisher Cats minor league baseball team. Tonight at 10:00 only on New Hampshire Public Television. |
| Tomorrow Return to index of stories... |
On the next New Hampshire Outlook - We'll take you inside the New Hampshire Fisher Cats minor league baseball team-- with a look at their new stadium in Manchester. Plus, we'll talk to the author of a new book who chronicled the team's 2004 inaugural season in New Hampshire. |
| CBS Poll Return to index of stories... |
CBS News Poll. April 13-16, 2005. N=1,149 adults nationwide. MoE ± 3. . "What do you think is the most important problem facing this country today?" . % War in Iraq 16 Economy/Jobs 15 Social Security 6 Terrorism 6 Health care 5 Gas/Gas prices/Heating oil 5 Other 42 Unsure 5 |
| Census/House Return to index of stories... |
New England's political clout threatened as population growth slows jayap NEW HAVEN, Conn. - Newly released census data show New England stands to lose about 20 percent of its congressional seats during the next quarter century as political power follows population booms in the South and West. Population projections released today by the U-S Census Bureau project much slower growth in New England. They also paint a picture of a region that is increasingly elderly, especially in Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, where statisticians expect a dramatic spike in the number of residents over 65. An Associated Press analysis found that if the projections hold true, Massachusetts would lose two of its ten congressional seats, Connecticut would lose one of its five and Rhode Island would lose one of its two. |
| Web Pointer Return to index of stories... |
Just a reminder if you missed any of this program or would like to watch it again-- New Hampshire Outlook is available online on-demand at nhptv.org/outlook You can also find streaming video of ALL of our broadcasts. |
| key: state politics/ government Return to index of stories... |
NEW HAMPSHIRE OUTLOOK Air Date/Time: 05/03/05 HOST: Beth Carroll Length: 26:46 minutes Now on New Hampshire Outlook: From Washington to the Granite state. We check in with New Hampshire Congressman Jeb Bradley about the progress and pitfalls of the 109th congress. And later, the cherry blossoms in the nation's capital, and their tie to a group from the Granite State. Hello. I'm Beth Carroll. Welcome to New Hampshire Outlook. This year Congress has debated Social Security and tax reform, wrangled over an energy bill, and struggled with the politics of life and death. The near-end of this session is a great time to catch up with our Congressional delegation. We've invited all 4 of our elected officials to join us over the next few weeks. In this program, we're talking with 2nd Term Congressman Jeb Bradley, a Wolfeboro Republican who represents the 1st District. PRODUCER/REPORTER: NAME OF PARTICIPANTS: Rep. Jeb Bradley\ New Hampshire |
| key: economy/ business Return to index of stories... |
NEW HAMPSHIRE OUTLOOK Air Date/Time: 05/03/05 HOST: Beth Carroll Length: 26:46 minutes Now on New Hampshire Outlook: From Washington to the Granite state. We check in with New Hampshire Congressman Jeb Bradley about the progress and pitfalls of the 109th congress. And later, the cherry blossoms in the nation's capital, and their tie to a group from the Granite State. Hello. I'm Beth Carroll. Welcome to New Hampshire Outlook. This year Congress has debated Social Security and tax reform, wrangled over an energy bill, and struggled with the politics of life and death. The near-end of this session is a great time to catch up with our Congressional delegation. We've invited all 4 of our elected officials to join us over the next few weeks. In this program, we're talking with 2nd Term Congressman Jeb Bradley, a Wolfeboro Republican who represents the 1st District. PRODUCER/REPORTER: NAME OF PARTICIPANTS: Rep. Jeb Bradley\ New Hampshire |
| key: UNH Return to index of stories... |
No UNH stories |
| WEB PROMO Return to index of stories... |
Tonight on New Hampshire Outlook. . Tonight at 10pm on New Hampshire Public Television. |
| Post Show Log Return to index of stories... |
Monday, May 2, 2005: This show was pretaped last week. Today we pretaped a show for later this month. The in-studio interview was pretaped last month so we started early. Just after 4:15pm. We re-did the end of the show because Beth's mic popped 3 times. All else went smoothly. We finished by 5pm. Director's Log: It was a straight forward show since it was all on tape. Beth's mic did pop and we need to figure out why that happened. Also, for some reason, we had bars in the prompter. Carl figured out how to fix it so hopefully that won't happen again. Other than that, all went well. |
| social security Return to index of stories... |
President George W. Bush is open to compromise on his proposal for private retirement accounts as part of a Social Security overhaul, the White House said on Friday. As Bush took his campaign to change Social Security to Ohio, White House spokesman Scott McClellan did not dispute published remarks from Allan Hubbard, head of the White House National Economic Council, that the administration was "willing to discuss" how private accounts are structured. Private retirement accounts are considered a bedrock principle of Bush's proposals for revamping the nation's largest entitlement program. But with the proposal getting a chilly reception on Capitol Hill and with the public, the White House is looking for ways to placate the opposition and push Social Security changes this year. Hubbard was quoted in USA Today as saying that the administration was "willing to discuss ----- his week -- the administration said it was open to compromise on private retirement accounts. President George W. Bush is open to compromise on his proposal for private retirement accounts as part of a Social Security overhaul, the White House said on Friday. As Bush took his campaign to change Social Security to Ohio, White House spokesman Scott McClellan did not dispute published remarks from Allan Hubbard, head of the White House National Economic Council, that the administration was "willing to discuss" how private accounts are structured. Private retirement accounts are considered a bedrock principle of Bush's proposals for revamping the nation's largest entitlement program. But with the proposal getting a chilly reception on Capitol Hill and with the public, the White House is looking for ways to placate the opposition and push Social Security changes this year. Hubbard was quoted in USA Today as saying that the administration was "willing to discuss Adults in the United States remain concerned about retirement and the military operation in Iraq, according to a poll by Harris Interactive. 31 per cent of respondents say Social Security is the most important issue for the government to address, while 29 per cent mention the war. U.S. president George W. Bush vowed to reform the Social Security program during his re-election campaign. Bush has proposed allowing workers to divert up to four per cent of their Social Security taxes into personal accounts that could be invested in stocks and bonds. In his Feb. 2 State of the Union address, the president explained his rationale, saying, "Your money will grow, over time, at a greater rate than anything the current system can deliver." The coalition effort against Saddam Hussein’s regime was launched in March 2003. At least 1,562 American soldiers have died during the military operation, and more than 11,800 troops have been injured. Iraqi voters elected a transitional legislative branch in January. A new government—headed by prime minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari—was established on Apr. 7. Health care was next on the list of concerns with 14 per cent, followed by the economy, energy and oil prices, and education. Polling Data What do you think are the two most important issues for the government to address? Social Security 31% War In Iraq The war Iraq / Saddam Hussein 29% 23% 6% Health care 14% The economy 13% Energy / Oil prices 9% Education 9% Federal budget / Deficit 6% Employment / Jobs 6% Taxes 6% Immigration 4% Terrorism 4% National security 4% Homeland / Domestic Security / Public safety 3% Medicare 3% Foreign policy 3% Domestic / Social issues 3% Abortion 2% Poverty 2% Same sex marriage / Rights 2% Welfare 2% Crime / Violence 2% Source: Harris Interactive Methodology: Telephone interviews with 1,010 American adults, conducted from Apr. 5 to Apr. 10, 2005. Margin of error is 3 per cent. Adults in the United States remain concerned about retirement and the military operation in Iraq, according to a poll by Harris Interactive. 31 per cent of respondents say Social Security is the most important issue for the government to address, while 29 per cent mention the war. U.S. president George W. Bush vowed to reform the Social Security program during his re-election campaign. Bush has proposed allowing workers to divert up to four per cent of their Social Security taxes into personal accounts that could be invested in stocks and bonds. In his Feb. 2 State of the Union address, the president explained his rationale, saying, "Your money will grow, over time, at a greater rate than anything the current system can deliver." The coalition effort against Saddam Hussein’s regime was launched in March 2003. At least 1,562 American soldiers have died during the military operation, and more than 11,800 troops have been injured. Iraqi voters elected a transitional legislative branch in January. A new government—headed by prime minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari—was established on Apr. 7. Health care was next on the list of concerns with 14 per cent, followed by the economy, energy and oil prices, and education. Polling Data What do you think are the two most important issues for the government to address? Social Security 31% War In Iraq The war Iraq / Saddam Hussein 29% 23% 6% Health care 14% The economy 13% Energy / Oil prices 9% Education 9% Federal budget / Deficit 6% Employment / Jobs 6% Taxes 6% Immigration 4% Terrorism 4% National security 4% Homeland / Domestic Security / Public safety 3% Medicare 3% Foreign policy 3% Domestic / Social issues 3% Abortion 2% Poverty 2% Same sex marriage / Rights 2% Welfare 2% Crime / Violence 2% Source: Harris Interactive Methodology: Telephone interviews with 1,010 American adults, conducted from Apr. 5 to Apr. 10, 2005. Margin of error is 3 per cent. |
| schiavo Return to index of stories... |
Polls show most Americans believe it political leaders who have involved themselves in the Schiavo case are doing so for reasons of trying to gain political advantage. Seventy percent said they think it was inappropriate for Congress to get involved in the case. the government should stay out of decisions like the one Terri Schiavo’s relatives faced. Many adults in the United States think the country’s political leaders should not have become involved in the case of Terri Schiavo, according to a poll by CBS News. 82 per cent of respondents believe Congress and U.S. president George W. Bush should stay out. gave U-S courts JURISDICTION in the case. Terri Schiavo case -- the brain-damaged florida woman whose feeding tube had been removed. In the end aimed at saving the life of Terri Schiavo, the brain-damaged Florida woman whose feeding tube was removed House Majority Leader Tom DeLay apologized Wednesday for using overheated rhetoric on the day Terri Schiavo died, but refused to say whether he supports impeachment of the judges who ruled in her case. Many adults in the United States think the country’s political leaders should not have become involved in the case of Terri Schiavo, according to a poll by CBS News. 82 per cent of respondents believe Congress and U.S. president George W. Bush should stay out. On Mar. 18, following an order by Pinellas-Pasco Circuit judge George Greer, Terri Schiavo’s feeding tube was removed. Following emergency legislation passed by the U.S. House of Representatives and signed by Bush, federal judge James Whittemore denied the request to reinsert the feeding tube, saying the woman’s "life and liberty interests were adequately protected by the extensive process provided in the state courts." 75 per cent of respondents believe the government should stay out of decisions like the one Terri Schiavo’s relatives faced. Do you think Congress and the president should be involved in deciding what happens to Terri Schiavo, or is this a matter Congress and the president should stay out of? Should be involved in 13% Should stay out of 82% Unsure 5% |
| delay Return to index of stories... |
The ethics panel's crisis began in January when Republicans pushed through, on a party-line vote over Democratic objections, a rule change requiring that a complaint be dismissed automatically after 45 days if a majority of the committee — made up of five Republicans and five Democrats — did not begin an investigation or vote to dismiss it. It's lead to a 3-month impasse with Democrats --keeping the ethics committee from functioning. Republicans on a House comittee say they want to begin a preliminary investigation of House Majority Leader Tom DeLay. But Democrats seem unlikely to accept the inquiry until new, lenient ethics rules are revised. They say new rules put in place by the GOP leadership were designed to protect DeLay. This is the second time in two weeks that Republicans tried to break the deadlock, while Democrats have held their ground and criticized the GOP-written rules for investigating lawmakers, passed in January without Democratic support. Democrats have accused the majority party of writing the rules to protect DeLay. WASHINGTON — House Republicans yesterday offered to open an investigation into overseas travel and other activities by Majority Leader Tom DeLay, R-Texas, as part of an effort to resolve a three-month impasse with the Democrats that has kept the ethics committee from functioning. With questions mounting about DeLay's overseas travel and past dealings with lobbyists, ethics committee chairman Doc Hastings, R-Wash., said he would set up a subcommittee to "review various allegations concerning travel and other actions by Mr. DeLay." But Democrats said the concessions did not address their chief objections to rule changes that the Republicans pushed through in January, most notably a provision that would cause a complaint to be dismissed — rather than lingering in limbo — if the chairman and ranking minority-party member cannot agree on whether to take up the case. The committee's top Democrat, Rep. Alan Mollohan of West Virginia, rejected ***** The Republican offer to investigate DeLay — the target of recent questions about his travel and links to a controversial lobbyist — intensified the battle over the Ethics Committee. That fight erupted in January when Republicans pushed through the changes to its rules. The Democrats refused to accept the rules then, and reiterated that position Wednesday — even though it meant passing up a chance to investigate DeLay, the second most powerful man in the House. WASHINGTON — House Republicans yesterday offered to open an investigation into overseas travel and other activities by Majority Leader Tom DeLay, R-Texas, as part of an effort to resolve a three-month impasse with the Democrats that has kept the ethics committee from functioning. With questions mounting about DeLay's overseas travel and past dealings with lobbyists, ethics committee chairman Doc Hastings, R-Wash., said he would set up a subcommittee to "review various allegations concerning travel and other actions by Mr. DeLay." But Democrats said the concessions did not address their chief objections to rule changes that the Republicans pushed through in January, most notably a provision that would cause a complaint to be dismissed — rather than lingering in limbo — if the chairman and ranking minority-party member cannot agree on whether to take up the case. The committee's top Democrat, Rep. Alan Mollohan of West Virginia, rejected Hastings' offer. "If we're going to have an ethics committee, we have to do it right," he said, adding that the current rules would "defeat the very purpose of the ethics committee, and that's to have credible investigations." Still, Hastings' offer marked the first time Republicans have shown a willingness to compromise, after weeks of negative news coverage about the financing of DeLay's overseas trips and his dealings with lobbyist Jack Abramoff, who is now the subject of congressional and criminal investigations. Some Republicans say that without a functioning ethics committee, DeLay has no formal venue for trying to clear himself of allegations. The ethics panel's crisis began in January when Republicans pushed through, on a party-line vote over Democratic objections, a rule change requiring that a complaint be dismissed automatically after 45 days if a majority of the committee — made up of five Republicans and five Democrats — did not begin an investigation or vote to dismiss it. |
| gas Return to index of stories... |
that Some lawmakers were incensed that they could not debate on the House floor a provision in the bill that would give makers of MTBE, a gasoline additive that is contaminating drinking water, a shield against product liability lawsuits by communities facing expensive cleanup costs. to to one written by and for oil companies. it a speical inPolitics A democratic spokeman is quoted as saying: The only thing rising faster than gas prices right now is the influence that the energy industry wields over the Republican Party," said Josh Earnest, a DNC spokesman. "For Republicans to use public anxiety over energy prices to push a bill written by and for oil companies is politics at its worst." Washington, DC - As gas prices surge over $2 per gallon, 34 percent of Americans now blame Bush and the Republicans, according to a March ABC News/Washington Post poll. So, Bush and Republicans are scrambling to use the crisis to push through their right-wing agenda while giving the appearance of doing something. ADVERTISING "The only thing rising faster than gas prices right now is the influence that the energy industry wields over the Republican Party," said DNC spokesman Josh Earnest. "For Republicans to use public anxiety over energy prices to push a bill written by and for oil companies is politics at its worst. American families need leaders who will work to lower gas prices, not work to increase energy industry profits." This energy bill is a staggering special interest giveaway that hurts the environment and does nothing to reduce gas prices. Republican Energy Bill Is a Special Interest Giveaway That Will Not Reduce Gas Prices And Hurts the Environment Republican Energy Bill Is a Special-Interest Giveaway ----------------- *** House Democrats attacked a Republican energy bill Wednesday, contending it provides billions of dollars to highly profitable energy companies while doing little to promote alternative fuels and energy conservation or to address soaring gasoline prices. Nevertheless, lawmakers said the bill is likely to be approved by the House on Thursday, setting the stage for a battle in the Senate over the nation's energy agenda. Opponents of the legislation, which covers more than 1,000 pages, were planning to try to strip from the bill its call for oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska and to impose tougher fuel economy requirements on automakers. Similar attempts have been unsuccessful, and GOP leaders said they are confident these will fail as well. Congress has failed to agree on energy legislation, despite repeated tries, during the last four years. In a speech to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Bush said he wished he "could wave a magic wand and lower gas prices tomorrow" but said the nation's energy problems took years to develop and are "not going to be solved overnight." *** Some lawmakers were incensed that they could not debate on the House floor a provision in the bill that would give makers of MTBE, a gasoline additive that is contaminating drinking water, a shield against product liability lawsuits by communities facing expensive cleanup costs. The bill gives MTBE makers "safe harbor" and will leave communities and water districts with billions of dollars in cleanup costs, said Rep. Lois Capps, D-Calif., who had prepared an amendment to remove the MTBE section. She also wanted to remove a provision that gives MTBE makers, including some of the biggest oil companies, $2 billion in transition assistance as MTBE is phased out over the next nine years. GOP leaders did not accept either amendment. Some lawmakers were incensed that they could not debate on the House floor a provision in the bill that would give makers of MTBE, a gasoline additive that is contaminating drinking water, a shield against product liability lawsuits by communities facing expensive cleanup costs. The bill gives MTBE makers "safe harbor" and will leave communities and water districts with billions of dollars in cleanup costs, said Rep. Lois Capps, D-Calif., who had prepared an amendment to remove the MTBE section. She also wanted to remove a provision that gives MTBE makers, including some of the biggest oil companies, $2 billion in transition assistance as MTBE is phased out over the next nine years. GOP leaders did not accept either amendment. The MTBE liability issue has been a top priority for DeLay, who was instrumental in getting into the legislation a measure that would funnel $2 billion over 10 years for research into recovering oil and gas from extremely deep areas of the Gulf of Mexico. *** Also, states and local water authorities would lose the right to sue makers of MTBE, a gasoline additive that has polluted water systems around the nation. That controversial provision was partly responsible for scuttling last year's energy bill. The bill's liability limits would affect more than 150 contamination lawsuits filed by states and local water districts since September 2003, said Tom Curtis, deputy executive director of the American Water Works Association, which represents water districts. The cleanup costs could run as high as $29 billion, he said. "It's infringing on the states and cities and doing it in a way that's likely that water customers will likely pay the bill for MTBE cleanup," he said. "That right shouldn't be abridged by an act of Congress." |
| website Return to index of stories... |
For information on our program, and links to our guests and interviews, visit our web site at nhptv.org. You can see and hear streaming video of our broadcasts. We want to know what's on your mind. Join our discussion forum and tell us what you're thinking. If you have a story idea or comment on our program, click the feedback button. Or, call us at 800-639-2721. |
| web briefs Return to index of stories... |
NH Outlook May 2 - May 6 Monday May 2 Rep. Jeb Bradley This year Congress has debated Social Security and tax reform, wrangled over an energy bill, and struggled with the politics of life and death. Over the next few weeks, New Hampshire's four members of the Congressional delegation will be joining us to talk about these and other state and national issues. In this program, we talk with second term Congressman Jeb Bradley, a Wolfeboro Republican who represents the 1st District. http:/www.house.gov/bradley/ NH State Society Also in this program, we learn about a Washington-based organization called the NH State Society. http:/www.nhstatesociety.org/ Tuesday May 3 Let's Play Ball! Lately, it's been a thrilling time for New England sports fans with the Red Sox and Patriots winning world championships. New Hampshire also hosts a championship team-- the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. The AA baseball team affiliated with the Toronto Blue Jays captured their league title last September. This season they're back to defend their title in a brand-new ballpark in downtown Manchester. On a chilly April morning, Chip Neal joined students watching the Fisher Cats take on the Norwich Navigators. http:/http:/www.nhfishercats.com/ Swinging for the Majors While we're talking baseball, we talk with Union Leader reporter Michael Cousineau about his book "Swinging for the Majors: Inside the New Hampshire Fisher Cats Champion Season." Wednesday May 4 May Skies with John Gianforte There's a lot to see in May skies and amateur astronomer John Gianforte brings us his monthly report on what's starring in the night above New Hampshire. http:/www.physics.unh.edu/observatory/ Birding for Beginners Spring is in the air and so are the birds. For anyone curious about those early morning risers living in New Hampshire's backyard, Iain McLeod, executive director of the New Hampshire Audubon Society, offers a unique birding tour for beginners. Videographer Steve Giordani joined him at the Massabesic Audubon Center in Auburn for a basic lesson in bird watching. http:/www.nhaudubon.org. Thursday May 5 One-on-One with Senator John E. Sununu As we continue our series of conversations with members of our Congressional delegation, Beth Carroll sits down with Senator John Sununu. http:/sununu.senate.gov/ Friday May 6 Let the Bidding Begin! NH Outlook will not be seen tonight so that NHPTV may bring you its 2005 Spring Auction. Please watch, bid high and bid often to keep programs like NH Outlook going strong all year long. http:/www.nhptv.org/auction/ |