[StBernard] Washington Report from Rep. Richard H. Baker

[Westley Annis]

December 7, 2007

Thank you for signing up for my e-newsletter. Below are issue updates that you may find interesting. As always, please visit my website at http://www.baker.house.gov <http://www.baker.house.gov/>  for the most up-to-date news and information on what I am working on in the Sixth Congressional District of Louisiana.

Baker Introduces Go Zone Extension Legislation

During the time since hurricanes Katrina and Rita, I have heard from many businesses and employers who have encountered numerous roadblocks while trying to recover. Questions about insurance, labor and construction costs, as well as levee and flood protection are all factors businesses must address when deciding if they can rebuild and invest in South Louisiana. For many, the original Go Zone deadlines did not provide enough time to project, plan and complete projects. I have introduced legislation to give the entire Go Zone more time to rebuild. In addition, my legislation would also increase the Go Zone Bond allocation for Louisiana, which has proven to be a powerful economic tool for employers around South Louisiana. Click here to learn more <http://www.baker.house.gov/html/release.cfm?id=344> .

Importance of the Holiday Season

With the passage of Thanksgiving, we are now officially in the Christmas Season. Unfortunately these days too often Christmas is recognized as only another American holiday. While millions of American Christians would agree that Christmas offers a unique opportunity for family and friends, they also understand the greater significance of the holiday as it relates to their faith. This week I joined with over 50 of my House colleagues in sponsoring a resolution that calls attention to the importance of Christmas as a Christian holiday and the contributions of Christianity to the foundation of the United States. Click here to view the resolution <http://thomas.loc.gov/home/gpoxmlc110/hr847_ih.xml> . 

Louisiana Department of Economic Development (LED) Announces Important Tax Information for Area Businesses

Many small and medium-sized businesses throughout South Louisiana are still eligible for tax breaks as part of Go Zone and the Renewal Community Tax Credit Programs. These programs can play a major role in the region’s recovery and incentives can be used for business renovations, building expansion, equipment, hiring workers, etc. LED has created a campaign to bring awareness to these incentives. Visit their website, www.YourTaxClaim.com <http://www.YourTaxClaim.com/> , for more information.

Website Student Center

Each year many school groups come to Washington, D.C., to see our federal government in action. It is an exciting opportunity for these students who are able to walk through the Capitol and visit some of our national treasures. For those who are not planning a trip to our nation’s capital, my website includes a popular feature called the Student Center <http://www.baker.house.gov/html/students.cfm> . This page offers information about Congress, local attractions, and education resources for students, teachers and parents. Also, if you are planning an upcoming trip to Washington, please let my office know how we may assist you.