U.S. Congress returns from its Break
to Focus on the Economy

Released February 2, 2010

This year is positioned to be a busy year in the U.S. Congress as representatives race to complete action before the November mid-term election. The greatest amount of discussion will be on how to deal with the ailing economy and continued high unemployment rates. The major issues that are expected to impact the metalcasting industry in 2010 include:

• Jobs Bill—Congress intends to focus on the economy and legislation to create jobs in 2010.   
  
• Energy and Climate Change—The House passed comprehensive energy and climate change legislation in 2009. A consensus on what structure a cap-and-trade system would take in the Senate has not formed, but strong desire exists in both chambers to pass other energy-related bills that would curb pollution blamed for global warming.
  
• Workplace Legislation—Lawmakers could consider a wide range of labor and employment issues, including labor-management relations, employment nondiscrimination, occupational safety and health reform, immigration, union organizing and paid leave mandates.
  
• Tax Reform—A broad range of tax cuts enacted in 2001 and 2003 are set to expire on Dec. 31, resulting in significantly higher tax rates for businesses and individuals. Congress will have to consider whether to extend or modify existing tax law. 
  
• Clean Water Restoration—The House may consider legislation significantly expanding federal jurisdiction over waters and wetlands under the Clean Water Act and require all construction activity to obtain a permit first. The Senate is working on a compromise.
  
• Immigration—The Obama Administration and some congressional leaders have indicated they want to tackle comprehensive immigration reform this year. 

On the regulatory front, both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have outlined ambitious agendas that begin with an increased enforcement emphasis. OSHA is expected to accelerate current rulemaking on beryllium, silica, cranes and derricks, hazard communication, and combustible dust and initiate a new rule mandating minimum standards for occupational safety and health programs.

For more information, contact Stephanie Salmon, Metalcasters Alliance for Government Affairs Washington Office, at ss@wafed.com or 202/842-4864.