Ehrlich on Washington column, November 25, 2001

с MFWS FROM Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. Second Congressional District of Maryland 1 407 York Rood, Suit* 304 lulhervill*, Morylond 2 1 093 3 1 5 Cannon Hovm Office Building Woihington, D C 20515 EHRLICH ON WASHINGTON Week of November 25, 2001 By Congressman Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. The Holidays: A Time For Americans, Young And Old, To Reflect This year, Thanksgiving was unlike any other for thousands of families across America, especially in the New York and Washington areas. They gathered around the holiday table for the first time without a spouse, child, or parent, reminding us that the September 1 1 attacks are still affecting everyday Americans. Many more families gathered without a son or daughter, as our men and women in uniform faithfully carry out Operation “Enduring Freedom” in Afghanistan. But these families can take a measure of solace in the efforts Congress and President Bush are taking to protect Americans at home, to rid the world of terrorism, and to reinstate peace throughout the world. First, Congress overwhelmingly granted President Bush the constitutional authority needed to wage an overwhelming and decisive military campaign to wipe out the perpetrators of the September 1 1 attacks and their cohorts. The impending collapse of the Taliban in Afghanistan proves just how serious President Bush takes an attack on our freedoms. Next, Congress and President Bush enacted a series of laws to strengthen America at home, including aviation security that places federal Sky Marshals on commercial flights and increases security at passenger and baggage screening locations at airports. In addition, Congress and the President enacted tough new law enforcement measures needed to crack down on suspected terrorists. In October, the House adopted an economic stimulus plan that boosts consumer spending and increases business investment. Specifically, H.R. 3090 helps low-income working families by delivering a full $300 rebate to individuals who received a partial rebate from President Bush’s $1.35 trillion tax relief initiative. In addition, couples who received a partial rebate would receive the full $600 rebate.