Staying In Touch With E-News

March 2005

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Town Hall Meetings in Middle Tennessee

My best advice comes from home, which is why I have decided to hold open meetings to better understand your concerns. I encourage you to come chat with me between March 29 and April 2. Whether you are experiencing trouble with a federal agency, or simply wish to let me know your stance on important issues, I welcome your thoughts and advice. Please check my Web site, www.house.gov/bart, in the next few days for more detailed information on dates and locations. I look forward to seeing you then.

Methamphetamine Bill to help Local Communities

In February, I introduced a bill, H.R. 798, the Methamphetamine Remediation Act, which will help communities clean up the dangerous toxins left behind by methamphetamine operations. The use of this drug has reached epidemic proportions in our state, not only destroying the people who abuse it, but endangering entire communities because of the way it is made.

As Ranking Democrat on the House Science Committee, I held a hearing on my bill earlier this month. My colleagues and I heard testimony from several witnesses including Dr. Robert Bell, the President of Tennessee Technological University. I expect the Committee to approve H.R. 798 later this month so it can be brought to a vote before the House of Representatives. Passing this bill will be a strong step toward fighting methamphetamine use in Middle Tennessee.

Some Last Minute Tax Help

As the April 15th deadline approaches, I know that many of you will be working on your tax returns. The Internal Revenue Service offers a very informative Web site to help make the process easier. You can file your taxes on-line, check the status of your refund or learn more about the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). I encourage you to check out the IRS’ Web site at www.irs.gov.

Did You Know…

The "Guinness Book of World Records" lists the Lost Sea in Sweetwater as the largest underground lake in the United States.

New Survey On-Line

Check out my Web site for a new survey. Take this opportunity to let me know what concerns you most. Go to www.house.gov/bart, and choose the “Take Our Survey” button.