Forum: Lipinski’s congressional goals
November 21, 2012 9:30PM
Updated: December 24, 2012 7:21AM
On Election Day, I was honored to be chosen to serve the people of the new 3rd Congressional District. While the district boundaries have changed, my commitment to listening to my constituents and bringing people together to develop and implement solutions to the many issues that we face remains the same.
I heard from independents, Republicans and Democrats throughout the campaign. Many of them told me they are tired of partisan bickering that accomplishes nothing. I share their frustration, especially when so many Americans are looking for work and our national debt continues to soar.
Now that the election is behind us, I hope we can address our most pressing issues, starting with the fiscal cliff and passing a responsible deficit reduction plan. In March, I helped introduce a budget modeled after the Simpson-Bowles Deficit Reduction Commission recommendations. Only a “Brave 38” supported this budget, but hopefully more representatives will have the courage to do the right thing now that the election has passed.
Before the end of the year, I also will push the Senate to follow the House’s lead and pass my American Manufacturing Competitiveness Act that will promote domestic manufacturing jobs. When the next Congress is sworn in, my Five-Point Jobs Plan still will be a priority. I plan on re-introducing my Buy American Improvement Act to ensure that “Buy American” laws are followed. I also am committed to starting right away on a new federal transportation bill that creates jobs and takes care of local infrastructure priorities. To find out more about these issues, please visit my website at lipinski.house.gov.
I’ll continue to provide top-notch constituent services and organize various community programs and events. No matter the concern or where you live in the district, know that my door is always open to you.
U.S. Rep. Dan Lipinski
3rd Congressional District
Movie a flight of fancy
As a retired captain with 35 years experience with one of America’s largest airlines, I would like to comment on the current hit movie, “Flight,” which is entertaining but has little to do with flying.
The central character is a drug-addicted alcoholic pilot. The flying public should be aware that there are many safeguards that prevent addicts and alcoholics from flying airliners, including a system of random drug and alcohol checks.
If a crew member fails to report a pilot who appears to be under the influence, that crew member will be terminated. Ironically, the pilot who’s under the influence can get help through a rehabilitation program. The pilot unions work closely with the airlines to prevent abuse. The unions’ professional standards and aeromedical committees will intervene when a problem is suspected. Unlike the movie, pilot unions do not condone or try to hide substance abuse.
“Flight” is a riveting tale of a person fighting an addiction. It could be about a bus driver or a doctor, but the writers chose an airline pilot. Fortunately, it is something that we in America should not worry about.
Retired Capt. Jerry Lawler
Palos Heights
