MAURICE HINCHEY FOR CONGRESS

Binghamton & Owego, NY — Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) today officially kicked off his campaign to continue representing the people of New York’s 22nd Congressional District. Hinchey highlighted his work to create local jobs, his efforts to improve benefits for veterans and his fight to protect middle class families from the worst abuses of Wall Street banks, credit card companies and health insurance corporations. The congressman, who is a Navy veteran, also pointed to a series of local accomplishments.

"In the midst of a difficult economic time for far too many New Yorkers, I know that it takes strong leadership with a vision for the future. This is a moment in history that demands fresh ideas and creative solutions," Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) said. "By drawing on the resources and talents of local residents, entrepreneurs, and businesses I've helped to deliver on the promise of those ideas by creating hundreds upon hundreds of new, high-tech jobs while laying the groundwork for our region to be a powerful economic force in the state and country moving forward.  I am running so that we can continue to build this revitalization of our region's economy.  We need more tax relief for the middle class so that people can keep up with life's daily expenses.  And we need to provide tax relief and support for small businesses so they can grow and create jobs. At the same time, we need stronger rules to protect the middle class from the abuses of credit card companies, Wall Street banks, and health insurers.  Instead of bailing out those special interests, I am going to continue fighting for the interests of the middle class. That’s what I’ve done my entire life and that’s what I’ll continue doing with the support of voters in New York's 22nd Congressional District.”

The following are Hinchey’s prepared remarks from today’s campaign kick-off announcement:

“Serving in the U.S. House of Representatives is an extraordinary honor. Not a day goes by where I don’t pour every ounce of my heart into listening to the people of the 22nd district and fighting for our needs. And I don’t intend to stop now.

“From Binghamton to Owego to Ithaca and over to Poughkeepsie, the people of this great district are facing challenges like they’ve never seen. Too many people are out of work and not enough jobs are being created. Families have lost their homes and small businesses are struggling.

“It’s an economic situation that wasn’t created overnight, and it’s not going to be fixed overnight either. But while the path ahead may not be easy, I still believe that our best days are ahead of us. We will bounce back – America always does.  But we can’t sit on our hands and wait for things to just get better.  We’ve got to work hard to create jobs and lay the groundwork for long-term economic growth that will help our region remain strong moving forward.

“That’s why I’m fighting to improve our local communities and for common-sense economic policies that create jobs and put middle class values and main street’s priorities before the greed of Wall Street banks, large insurance companies and big energy.

“That’s why I voted to cut taxes for 95 percent of working families and why I worked to reward small businesses with tax credits for every new job they create.
“When our economy started slowing in 2007, I didn't wait for Washington, DC to act. Instead, I worked tirelessly to put New York at the forefront of the high-tech manufacturing job revolution.
“Binghamton University is perhaps the most important economic anchor of our entire region.  The university provides thousands of jobs locally, brings in thousands of students and visitors to our area, and as a research institution, it puts technology into action right here in our backyard.   By introducing 4,000 young smart adults to the area each year, B.U. offers promise in reducing the exodus of young adults who continue to flee the region. The foreign students who attend Binghamton University alone, inject over $50 million into our local economy each year.  

“Over the last eight years, I have secured critical resources for Binghamton University high tech research and development.  

“Over the last two years, one of my major focuses has been the establishment of the Center for Autonomous Solar Power (CASP) at Binghamton University.  The goal of CASP is to address the scientific challenges of reducing the cost of solar power and enhancing energy efficiency.  The money will spur economic growth in the Southern Tier and position the school and the region's businesses as leaders in providing cutting-edge technology for defense, aerospace, consumer and industrial markets. Once the center is fully established and research is ongoing, we expect the CASP to create about 100 new jobs and help retain about 250 jobs annually in the region.

“While the Southern Tier has been hit with the loss of many jobs, there is reason to be hopeful that as the national economy slowly recovers, our region is positioned to improve greatly.  In order to help the Southern Tier redevelop its economy, I have committed to making federal investments to develop the technology and a skilled workforce necessary for long-term growth.  The Southern Tier is still home to cutting edge technology and manufacturing companies who are poised to help this region and this country get back on its feet.   
  
“This region is the home to many simulation companies and today, we are witnessing a revitalization of that local industry.  The Southern Tier is the birthplace of flight simulation, and hundreds of area residents continue to be employed by this regional industry cluster.  As a member of the Modeling and Simulation Caucus and the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, I am leading efforts to ensure that the key technologies that are developed by these companies throughout the Southern Tier are recognized by the federal government. Greater Binghamton is poised to benefit from the increased demand for modeling and simulation devices.

“Earlier this year, I announced the award of a U.S. Army contract worth $12.5 million to a team that includes Binghamton Simulator Company (BSC).  The program will produce a simulation training system to conduct realistic training exercises and mission rehearsals for Army helicopter aircrew personnel.  The contract will help sustain 42 current employees, create 10 high-tech jobs, and positions BSC to nearly double its workforce over the next several years.

“Over the last two years, I have secured projects for Rockwell Collins that has led to critical improvements to military flight simulation and display programs.  This work has helped Rockwell retain dozens jobs locally during the economic downturn and positions the company to grow in the future. 

“Additionally, just this past May, I came to Rockwell Collins to announce an award from the U.S. Navy that will create 20 local jobs and help retain 50 jobs. 
  
“The massive downsizing of IBM’s local workforce, along with other shifts in local manufacturing created a challenging set of economic circumstances.   Since 1990, this region has lost 53% of its manufacturing jobs.  Turning this situation around remains the primary focus of my work today. 

“The good news is that we’re making progress.  Despite the job losses we’ve suffered, this region is still home to advanced manufacturing and it keeps getting better.   All the pieces are in place for economic growth in this sector.

“Last year, I obtained a federal investment for Endicott Interconnect Technologies to develop a microelectronic chip that would enable the military to ensure that no one has tampered with U.S. weapons.  This project alone is expected to create and save more than 80 jobs, including about 30 new jobs in the near-term. 

“I secured BAE Systems the federal resources needed to develop a next generation defensive unit that will help keep military personnel safe during dangerous missions.  This is helping BAE retain jobs and gives them an advantage over other companies.  BAE is now positioned to manufacture and sell its product to the military, which will increase employment locally.

“And last year, I worked extremely hard to save the presidential helicopter program at Lockheed Martin.  I presented the Department of Defense with a compromise plan, which would have saved billions of dollars, delivered capable helicopters to the White House in a timely matter, and preserved hundreds of jobs in the Southern Tier at Lockheed Martin in Owego. 

“While I secured House approval of my plan, unfortunately, the Senate and the administration refused to agree to this commonsense path to eliminate the cost growth in the program but preserve the investment that had already been made.  Despite this difficult situation, I was able to secure $100 million, which will be used to save $1 billion worth of the original investment by using the technologies developed on other programs.  Best of all, that endeavor will be supported by more than 100 employees in Owego. 

“The Southern Tier is also home to a world class commercial and military shelter manufacturer.  I have had the fortunate opportunity to aid this company by cutting through the red tape in order for Johnson Outdoors to continue to manufacture tents needed by the U.S. Military.  While helping meet a critical need of our military personnel, this has also kept dozens of manufacturing workers employed in Binghamton. 

“Now, Johnson Outdoors is focused on collaborating with The Solar Energy Consortium, an organization I helped establish to make New York a hub for solar energy research and development, and Binghamton University in order to develop new, energy efficient shelter systems.  This partnership will develop breakthrough technology that will save energy and help this region's economy.      

“As for The Solar Energy Consortium, we’ve seen much success in New York with more to come. 
We’re laying the groundwork for a green jobs revolution right here in New York.  We've made incredible progress, but we can't stop now. I intend to keep fighting to attract more companies, create more jobs, and improve our economy.
“Over the last two years, I have acted to address flood prevention needs in the City of Binghamton and the Towns of Conklin and Union. These federal projects will help mitigate against future flooding hazards and protect the lives, property, and businesses of residents in the region.  The construction phases of these projects are also expected to create between 14 and 21 jobs. 

“In June of this year, I proudly introduced legislation to bring relief for the 6,500 additional homes in Binghamton, Johnson City and Endicott that may be forced to purchase flood insurance due to FEMA’s new flood maps.  This legislation, known as the Flood Insurance Fairness Act, will provide homeowners with an optional five year delay on the requirement to purchase flood insurance and reimburse homeowners for the cost of successfully appealing flood map.  Recently, the House adopted many of my bill’s proposals into comprehensive flooding legislation that awaits action by the Senate.

“And a vital part of our region’s infrastructure is the Broome Intermodal Bus Terminal -- a stunning new building that opened this summer.  The Hub promotes a message of mobility for low-income residents, helps reduce local vehicle use and congestion and supports hybrid bus use, reducing carbon emissions, and urban revitalization.  This project was made possible by my determination to both secure the necessary federal resources and move the project past multiple programmatic hurdles.

“And servicing the bus terminal will be six new hybrid buses I secured over the past several years for Broome.  The buses' hybrid propulsion technology was designed by BAE Systems right here in Johnson City and the actual vehicles were constructed by Orion Bus Industries in Oriskany, New York.

“It is vitally important that we invest in our communities to rebuild our roads and bridges, upgrade our infrastructure and improve our quality of life so that we can continue to attract and retain new businesses.

“As a primary artery into the City, Front Street in Binghamton is now receiving the upgrades it deserves due to federal funding I secured in the 2005 highway reauthorization law.  This project will improve, both visually and structurally, this important entrance to Binghamton.

“Route 17’s upgrade to Interstate 86 is generating an extraordinary amount of work over the next five years to Greater Binghamton.  This work represents the largest federal investment in public works ever in this region.   Many jobs are being created by this project and because of this project.  The new Interstate status will unquestionably benefit economic growth in this region.   

“And in Tioga County, I followed through on my pledge to obtain the last portion of funding needed to complete the construction of the much-anticipated Owego River Walk. This important project is spurring economic activity in the village while also stabilizing the waterfront and protecting homes and businesses by preventing erosion.

“This summer, I gained approval to strengthen the Tioga Rural Area Economic Partnership (REAP) program -- an initiative designed to spur economic growth in the county.  The new federal investment will be used to hire a new executive director to oversee and improve economic development initiatives undertaken by the REAP. As a member of the Agriculture Subcommittee, I helped establish the Tioga REAP Zone in 1999 as part of an effort to help spur economic development in struggling rural areas. 
“The Tioga REAP has grown to be a critical part of Tioga County's economic and community development efforts.  With the help of its REAP status, Tioga County Local Development Corporation received a new low-interest loan to provide loans to local small businesses, which are expected to create 50 jobs and save 40 others in Tioga County. 
“To better understand the concerns of my constituents and help them cut through government red tape, beginning in the spring of this year, I established a mobile office in Waverly and Owego.  Constituents have an opportunity to meet with my staff, ask questions, receive advice and attain assistance in dealing with federal agencies.

“To me, investing in our communities also means making sure that we keep our air clean and our water safe. That's why we must make absolutely sure that any drilling for natural gas or oil, especially here in New York's Marcellus Shale, is done so in a safe and proper way. Disasters such as the BP Gulf oil spill and recent stories of drinking water contamination in Pennsylvania are prime examples of why oil and gas companies must be held accountable and follow the same rules that protect our drinking water and environment that all other industries must follow. After what happened in the Gulf, we simply cannot rely on the oil and gas industry assurances about the safety of their drilling practices. That’s why I’m working for commonsense protections that will help prevent a future disaster.
“In addition to holding big energy accountable, I’m also working to hold Wall Street accountable.
“I voted against the Wall Street bailout because middle class families shouldn’t be paying for the mistakes of big banks. And I helped lead the effort to pass comprehensive Wall Street reform to stop the excessive risk taking that puts our retirement savings, our economy and our jobs at risk.
“I also helped lead the effort to crack down on credit company abuses by stopping unfair rate increases, prohibiting excessive fees and ending due date gimmicks and misleading terminology.  For too long, middle-class families have been bilked by the very banks they were being forced to bail out. And now I’m working to take things a step further, authoring new legislation to cap credit card interest rates at 15 percent.
“If there is one thing this financial crisis has taught us it is that we need to ensure that the savings that matter the most to us are shielded from the risks of the stock market.  That’s why I have fiercely opposed the privatization of Social Security and instead sought to strengthen the bedrock program on which more than 50 million Americans, including more than 3 million New Yorkers, count on for their retirement security and to make ends meet. 
“Social Security has served as a steady source of income for New Yorkers just as Medicare has served as a reliable health insurance program for our seniors.  That’s why I fought so hard to strengthen Medicare. And through recent reforms, we’ve added at least nine years to the solvency of the Medicare trust fund -- ensuring that the program doesn’t go anywhere; we closed the gap in Medicare prescription drug coverage known as the donut hole; provided seniors access to new, free annual wellness visits; and eliminated out-of-pocket copayments for preventive benefits.
“To hold health insurance companies accountable and make health care more affordable for everyone, I worked for legislation that bars insurers from denying coverage based on a pre-existing condition or dropping individuals’ coverage when they get sick and need it most. And in an economic environment in which so many New York high school and college graduates are having a hard time finding a job, these reforms will allow New Yorkers to stay on their parents’ health insurance plan until they turn 26 years old.
“And speaking of our children, let me talk about our schools.  We’re not going to attract the jobs of the 21st century without a workforce prepared to take them on. That means we need more good teachers and smaller class sizes. That’s why I led the effort to prevent a wave of teacher layoffs, saving 8,200 education jobs in our district alone.
“As a member of Congress and as a Navy veteran, I believe we must remain committed to the troops when they return home, leave the service, and become veterans.  That’s why I voted to increase the pay for members of the military and have approved a 70 percent increase since 2007 in funding for veterans health care and benefits.  We cannot ask these men and women to put their lives on the line for the security of our country and then turn our backs on them when they return home. 
“We do face great challenges, but I’m ready to take them on and help move America and the people of the 22nd district forward.
“It starts with tax relief for middle class families and businesses that hire workers, investments that attract high-tech manufacturing jobs with good wages and good benefits, improving our local communities and schools, and providing new protections from the abuses of insurance companies, big banks and big energy. These are your values and my priorities and with your support it would be my honor to keep fighting for them!”