This Wednesday, January 4, marked the first day of the 2012 Legislative Session. However, the House has been unable to begin hearing bills because most of the members of the minority party have yet to show up to do the work of the people. Hoosiers all over the state are not being represented because without a quorum, meaning 67 members of the House are present on the chamber floor, we cannot conduct our business. At this point, all pieces of legislation authored by members of the House are being postponed. Many of these bills would help to strengthen Indiana by assisting veterans and the disabled, or are key pieces of legislation that address government reduction, military family relief and a smoking ban. In a positive step forward, the House committees are meeting to hear testimony on legislation. While the House committee members cannot currently vote, it is beneficial to listen to public testimony and ask questions in order have a better understanding of the bills that may come before the House. Because this is a short session, it must end by March 14, we have a limited amount of time to accomplish our work. I am looking forward to the point when we are able to move forward and can begin to openly discuss and debate the pieces of legislation that come before us in the House. It is our duty as legislators to represent our entire district. Hoosier taxpayers’ voices are being stifled by the actions of the representatives who are not in their seats and ready to do the job they have been elected to do, and that is wrong. On a final note, if you have a few moments and have not yet filled out my legislative survey I encourage you to please do so. It is available on my website at www.in.gov/H78 and can be found on the top-right side of the page. I appreciate your feedback about the issues we may discuss this session and also your individual comments. Thank you for your continued support.
-30- Crouch Capitol Connection, Hoosier taxpayers’ voices stifled by House Minority no-show, 1-6-12.doc |
