This past week we've seen a lot of developments as Congress moves towards its August District Work Period. I know that in the forefront of many minds is the move towards healthcare reform. Through my travels in the District and participation in tele-townhalls, I have heard from a great deal of folks who are afraid of a change in their health benefits through a government-run health system. I'm happy to report that we'll be taking more time to listen to your thoughts before considering it in the fall.
This is a two-pronged opportunity for Members of Congress to hear directly from you all on our work so far, and also for us to slow down and look closely at the direction we're heading in. I will continue to work towards a bipartisan solution to reforming the healthcare industry in a way that will protect existing benefits, reduce costs, guarantee coverage, and secure the doctor-patient relationship without a government-run healthcare program.
Next, there has been further movement in the legislative process on my proposed Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act. The full Natural Resources Committee, of which I'm a member, approved my bill unanimously. This plan is critical towards success in cleaning up the Bay. It will require that we identify every penny we spend on the Bay and hold those that spend this money are accountable to show positive results in the restoration efforts. Neither off these efforts is currently required or fully utilized, and they have proven to work in the actions to restore the Florida Everglades and the Great Lakes. It is my hope that Congress will continue to act in a bipartisan effort on my legislation to achieve final approval once we return in September.
Lastly, I was honored to hear that the Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, Ike Skelton, has seen fit to appoint me to the U.S. Naval Academy's Board of Visitors. The Board's duties are to inquire about the curriculum, fiscal affairs, and other matters surrounding the state of the Academy. I am eager to work with the Board's other members to ensure our Midshipmen continue to receive top notch training as they prepare to enter our armed forces. Additionally, the First District, with its many Academy graduates and veterans will provide a wealth of knowledge to guide me in the coming months.
I'm looking forward to travelling across the district over these next few weeks and encourage you all to continue to let me know your thoughts and ideas on Congress' efforts in Washington. So please don't hesitate to contact my Washington D.C., Fredericksburg, Tappahannock, or Yorktown offices. Your feedback is what enables me to continue to serve you to the best of my ability.
Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He was elected to his first full term in November 2008 and serves on the Natural Resources Committee and the Armed Services Committee where he is the Ranking Member of the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee.
