Thank you to those of you who were able to join us last week for our meeting with United States Senator Mark Udall. We had an opportunity to discuss a number of key issues under consideration in Washington, D.C.; most pointedly, the impending sequester and the fiscal health of our country.
Colorado Concern members were clear that they are frustrated with what appears to be a lack of focus in Congress around addressing key policy decisions that impact the daily lives of all citizens and the stability of our business markets. Perhaps it was best said like this: The American people fear the impact of the sequester less than they do the inaction of our elected officials to address the fiscal challenges of our country in a reasonable and timely manner. Another member noted the lack of bipartisanship, stating that it appears members of Congress would rather see the other side lose than look for a solution. It is fair to say it was a tough, but respectful, crowd. That said, I believe your friends are the ones who need to tell you when things aren't as they should be, and it is crystal clear that the sy
stem in place in Washington, D.C., is currently broken and requires a major fix.
Senator Udall was thoughtful in his response and noted that he believes a "grand bargain" is possible, but that it is likely the sequester will go into effect, if even for a short time. He stated any solution will involve both revenue increases and cuts in entitlement spending, requiring both political parties to give, and to come to the table. Reduction in the corporate income tax also was mentioned as possible, as rates in the United States are now above those of many of our global competitors.
Comprehensive immigration reform - addressing both the expansion of the legal visa system and the issues associated with those in our country illegally - also was mentioned. Senator Udall stated he believes the issue will be debated in the coming months with some form of an omnibus bill making its way to the President for his signature. Of note, it was reported Friday that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the AFL-CIO have come to agreement around principles of a new system to bring lower-skilled workers to the U.S., a key provision of a reform package. Click here for the article.
We appreciate Senator Udall taking the time to meet with our members and his willingness to have a frank discussion about the issues that concern Colorado's business leaders. These types of open dialogues are necessary and play a role in how we develop stronger relationships and, ultimately, solutions. Be assured we will continue to keep in close contact with the Senator and his team, and will look forward to having him return in the coming months.
Should you have questions or concerns about any state or federal policy issue, please do not hesitate to contact me at tamra@coloradoconcern.com, or 303-860-1201.
Warmly,
