Vol. 1 Issue 23, December 14, 2010
Welcome to the Taxpayer's Tab -- the weekly newsletter for up-to-the-minute research from the National Taxpayers Union Foundation's BillTally Project.
Since 1991, NTUF has computed the legislative spending agendas of Members of Congress by analyzing the costs -- and savings -- of the bills that they sponsor and cosponsor. Our goal is to provide you with objective information about what Congress wants to do with your tax dollars in an open and transparent manner.
Each week, NTUF will bring you updates on the week's most and least expensive bills, the ones with the most cosponsors ("the most friended"), and a few bills we've termed Wildcards -- bills that we think you might find interesting.
For more information on the National Taxpayers Union Foundation or the BillTally Project, check out our website and methodology.
Most Expensive Bill of the Week
The Bill: H.R. 6456/H.R. 4318, 21st Century Civilian Conservation Corps Act
Annualized Cost: $16 billion ($64 billion over four years)
In a nod to the New Deal-era program, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-9) sponsored H.R. 6456, which authorizes the President to reestablish the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The Corps would pay people to work on federally funded public works projects. Participants would also receive transportation and housing benefits. Unemployed veterans and citizens who have exhausted their unemployment benefits would receive employment preferences.
Similar to the Depression-era measure, CCC projects would target the prevention of forest fires, floods, and soil erosion. In addition, the Corps would establish or repair paths and trails in America's national parks and also combat tree diseases and invasive species.
The bill authorizes $16 billion in spending each year through Fiscal Year 2014. Additionally, the President may use other unobligated public works funds to supplement Corps activities.
Least Expensive Bill of the Week
The Bill: H.R. 6246, Rural Energy Communities Development Act of 2010
Annualized Cost: $1 million ($2 million two-year cost)
Congressman Earl Pomeroy (ND-At Large) introduced the Rural Energy Communities Development Act to assist towns with less than 20,000 residents and whose energy-producing sector has grown at least 20 percent over the last ten years. Assistance would be in the form of infrastructure loans to establish or rehabilitate roads, utilities, schools, law enforcement, and other improvements.
The bill would authorize a $75 million Rural Energy Communities Loan Program to small cities, towns, or incorporated areas. Based on similar federal energy-related loan programs, NTUF estimates the subsidy cost of the loans would be 3.21 percent, or $2 million over two years.
Most Friended
The Bill: S. 3772, Paycheck Fairness Act
Number of Cosponsors: 33 Senators
In a follow-up to the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, Senator Harry Reid (NV) introduced the Paycheck Fairness Act to address sexual discrimination in the workplace.
The bill would put in place enhanced requirements for equal pay as well as institute a training program for girls and women to learn salary negotiation skills. An award for workplace equality would also be established to recognize businesses and associations proactively complying with equality rules. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and Bureau of Labor Statistics would compile more detailed information on pay based on sex, race, and national origin of employees.
Cosponsors include 33 Senators, all of whom either caucus with or are members of the Democratic Party.
We Want You!
NTUF is looking for winter, spring, and summer associate policy analysts to participate in our internship program. Associates assist with BillTally research and other policy projects. Academic credit and a stipend are possible. Email questions to ntuf@ntu.org. To apply visit our internship page. Join us and help keep a tab on Congress!
The WildcardThe Bill: H.R. 6426, Moving Outdoors in Nature Act of 2010 Annualized Cost: $55 million ($165 million over three years) To encourage children and families to spend more time outdoors, Congressman Ron Kind's (WI-3) bill would establish a grant system for eligible entities to develop and implement Moving Outdoors in Nature State Strategy plans. Grant recipients would be required to establish activities such as outdoor recreation programs, youth mentoring, the creation of natural play areas within communities, and promotional efforts showing the benefits of time spent outdoors. The Department of the Interior would coordinate the grant program, which would result in $165 million in new spending. |
About NTUF The National Taxpayers Union Foundation is a research and educational organization dedicated solely to helping citizens of all generations understand how tax policies, spending programs, and regulations at all levels affect them now and in the future. Through NTUF's timely information, analysis, and commentary, we're empowering citizens to actively engage in the fiscal policy debate and hold public officials accountable every day. NTUF is a 501(c)(3) research and education organization. Donations are deductible for personal income tax purposes. Please make a donation today to help further NTUF's mission of research and education! This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to aid or hinder the passage of any legislation or as a comment on any Member's fitness to serve. |