2004 Op-ed Archives
Congress Fails On Its Promise For More Basic Scientific Research
December 20, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- Just two years after it promised to double funding for scientific research, Congress has cut the budget for the National Science Foundation by $105 million - the largest cut in the history of the NSF. This comes at a time when U.S. children are falling behind their international counterparts in math and science skills.
Veterans Day Has Special Significance For Tennesseans
November 9, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- This Veterans Day will have special significance to the Tennessee families whose loved ones are fighting an enemy half a world away in Afghanistan and Iraq. About 3,600 citizen-soldiers from the Tennessee Army and Air National Guard are currently serving on active military duty, with more than 3,200 more scheduled to be deployed soon to Iraq.
Quit Playing Politics With Our Tobacco Farmers
October 1, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- A tobacco buyout that would help Tennessee farmers and their communities is facing yet another obstacle from out-of-state politicians who don't understand the issue. The buyout measure has been approved by both the House and the Senate, but it is languishing in a conference committee.
Teen Suicide Prevention Gets Federal Boost
September 20, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- More than 4,000 children and young adults kill themselves each year, making suicide the third leading cause of death among people between the ages of 10 and 24. That's a tragedy we need to get a better handle on, and Congress is doing its part.
Congress Closes In On A Tobacco Buyout
July 16, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- A tobacco buyout is closer to reality than it ever has been now that both the Senate and the House have approved such a measure. But the fight to get the buyout into law is just beginning because differences between the two versions must be resolved before Congress adjourns in October.
Tobacco Buyout Close To Becoming Reality
July 1, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- A buyout to help Tennessee tobacco growers transition out of a dwindling market is as close as it has ever been. The House of Representatives recently approved the measure and an accompanying provision allowing Tennesseans to deduct state sales taxes when filing their federal income tax returns. The two measures are attached to a larger piece of legislation designed to restructure corporate tax rates.
Why We Celebrate The Fourth Of July
June 25, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- Independence Day is more than backyard barbecues, fireworks and good times. It's a day our nation celebrates to signify its independence from a monarchy with little regard for the colonies except the taxes they paid.
Cleaning Up The Meth Mess
June 14, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- As of March 2004, the Tennessee Department of Children Services had 1,500 children in its custody because their parents were either addicted to methamphetamine or were manufacturing the drug. Authorities estimate that another 600 children will be taken into DCS custody this year because of meth.
Power Line Through Middle Of Sumner County Unnecessary
June 4, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- The Tennessee Valley Authority's plan to build a new 90-mile high-voltage transmission line from Kentucky through the middle of Sumner County is unnecessary and would be a huge eyesore that would adversely affect quality of life and economic development in the community. That's why I oppose the plan and will ask TVA to explore alternatives.
Dealing With Soaring Gasoline Prices
June 3, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- Record-high gasoline prices are putting a crimp in everyone's budget. Gasoline prices will likely climb even higher as more people take to the highways for vacation destinations. It's long past time to take measures that will slow gasoline price hikes.
Our Best Bet For A Tobacco Buyout
May 28, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- Middle Tennessee tobacco farmers have waited too long for a tobacco buyout. For more than two years, I have teamed with my colleagues from tobacco-growing states and pressed House leadership to bring buyout legislation to the floor for a vote. Congressional leadership has repeatedly refused our attempts. But my time in Congress has taught me that there is more than one way to succeed in the legislative process.
National World War II Memorial Serves As A Fitting Tribute
May 21, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- For many Middle Tennesseans, Memorial Day symbolizes the start of summer. It's the beginning of backyard barbecues, long evenings with family and friends, and more than a few mosquito bites. But Memorial Day is really about honoring those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country. This year, the holiday comes with special significance as the long overdue National World War II Memorial will be dedicated on Saturday, May 29, in Washington, D.C.
Nation's World War II Memorial Now Open To The Public
April 30, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- After too many years of waiting for it, the country's World War II Memorial has opened to the public. The granite and bronze monument was built to pay tribute to the more than 400,000 Americans who died during World War II.
Budget Shortchanges Nation's Veterans
April 23, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- Too often I'm reminded of the old saying, "Put your money where your mouth is," when I see budget proposals concerning the Department of Veterans Affairs. We expect sacrifice and courage from the military men and women who protect us from harm and keep this nation free. But when it comes to taking care of them when they get old and frail, the current administration seems to consider that a burden.
Federal Tobacco Buyout Legislation Long Overdue
April 15, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- My tobacco-state colleagues and I have introduced new buyout legislation that provides financial relief to Middle Tennessee tobacco growers and their communities through the existing federal excise tax. Unlike other buyout bills, no new fees or taxes would have to be collected from tobacco manufacturers to pay for the buyout.
Pell Grants Fail To Keep Pace With Rising Tuition Costs
March 12, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- A quality education can provide endless opportunities. It's an investment that pays huge returns to not only the person who receives such an education, but also to society as a whole. The future of our nation depends on how well our children adapt, and a sound education can ensure our children have the skills to adjust to a changing world.
Keep Our Lakes Open For Recreation
March 5, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- Middle Tennessee residents are fortunate to have an abundant amount of lakes, streams and forests to enjoy. Too often, though, we take the Great Outdoors for granted, until something unforeseen happens.
Gordon Urges Congress To Act On Tobacco Buyout
March 1, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- Middle Tennessee tobacco farmers are understandably anxious and disappointed that Congress has failed to deliver a promised buyout. I am disappointed, as well, but the congressional leadership is to blame for this inaction.
Pushing For A Fair Tobacco Buyout Program
January 30, 2004, by Bart Gordon -- As we begin another year of work in Congress, tobacco buyout legislation is one of my top priorities. Middle Tennessee tobacco farmers are understandably anxious about reduced quotas and depressed prices. And I'm eager to get this legislation signed into law so our farmers can get some relief.
