We Can't Wait, Bringing our Troops Home from Iraq

We Can't Wait
House Democrats are committed to extending the payroll tax cut for 160 million Americans and unemployment benefits—initiatives that create jobs, spur our economic growth, and strengthen the middle class. Congress must take action to pass these crucial pieces of President Obama's American Jobs Act as well as other provisions to help small businesses grow and hire; rebuild America's roads, bridges, and schools; and keep teachers in the classroom, firefighters on the job, and cops on the beat. The President's plan, along with House Democrats' "Make It In America" initiative, will revitalize our economy and put our country back on the path of economic prosperity.

Americans can't wait. Congress must act now.

Congresswoman Pelosi delivers remarks on the floor of the House to mark the end of the war in Iraq and honor the sacrifices of our nation's veterans and their families.

Bringing our Troops Home from Iraq
On Thursday, we marked the official end to the war in Iraq, bringing our troops home in time for the holidays and ending a war that has cost the American people too much in lives, in dollars, and our reputation around the world. I commend President Obama for keeping his promise to the American people and express gratitude to those who have served our great nation. Just as they commit to leave no one behind on the battlefield, we will leave no veteran behind when they come home – honoring their service with the economic opportunities and benefits they were promised.

Increasing Pipeline Safety
On Monday, the House passed H.R. 2845, a bill to strengthen pipeline safety standards by allowing for the hiring of additional safety inspectors, increasing penalties for violators, requiring automatic shutoff valves on new or replaced pipeline, and mandating that pipelines in high-consequence areas have the documentation or testing to prove they can safely handle their level of pressure. Having witnessed the devastation of the San Bruno pipeline explosion – meeting the victims, touring the destruction, and thanking the first responders – it is all too clear why Congress had to take strong bipartisan action to strengthen pipeline safety standards. I commend Transportation Secretary LaHood for his continued attention to this urgent safety issue.

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