Columns

The looming expiration of critical tax provisions on January 1, 2013 is part of what many analysts are calling the “fiscal cliff.” Others have dubbed this economic doomsday scenario “Taxmageddon.” Recently, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) found failing to prevent scheduled tax increases at the end of the year likely would contribute to a recession in early 2013. The stakes for our struggling national economy and Nebraska families could not be any higher.

Later this month, the Supreme Court is expected to rule on the constitutionality of President Obama’s health care law, formally known as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Make no mistake, this will be a landmark decision with profound implications for the future of our country. But the significance of this decision goes beyond the dubious constitutional standing of the law’s individual mandate.

This summer, a travelling memorial called “Remembering Our Fallen” will make its trek across Nebraska. This 60-foot long tribute to Heartland soldiers who have been killed in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan is a poignant reminder of the high cost of freedom. This past Friday, I had the special honor of welcoming its arrival in Gothenburg, where it will be on display through May 31^st at Stone Hearth Estates.

While Nebraska continues to see a strong job market, the national economy remains weak with unemployment above 8 percent for 39 consecutive months. The tepid pace of growth is due in large part to the overregulation coming out of Washington, paralyzing employers with uncertainty. And just as a rising tide lifts all boats, the opposite is also true. Failure to rein in out-of-control regulations will result in lasting damage to our country, and all Americans will pay the price.

As I travel the Third District, one of the issues I hear about most often is the future of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). The USPS is an important part of life in Rural America, where efficient and effective mail delivery is vital to commerce and everyday life.

Dealing with severe weather is an unfortunate part of life in Nebraska. As we saw with last year’s record flooding, nature can be unpredictable and unrelenting. Ensuring you, your family, your home, and your business are prepared for a weather emergency is critical to minimizing the devastating impact extreme events can have on life and property.

This past week marked the 64^th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel. From day one, the United States and Israel have enjoyed a strategic partnership based on shared democratic values, friendship, and respect. With the escalating instability in the Middle East and the threat of a nuclear Iran, it is as important as ever we stand firmly with our most important ally in the region.

Agriculture is a bright spot in our nation’s economy, sustainably meeting growing demands to provide food, feed, fuel and fiber for the world. Nebraska’s producers are masters of efficiency and make high-quality products. As the landscape continues to evolve, public policy will have to change with it. Getting these policies right is the key to the continued success of our farmers and ranchers and the reason why I serve as co-chair of the Modern Agriculture Caucus.