Dave Schweikert RSS Articles

“HAVE THEY LOST THEIR MINDS?”

Wed, 09 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – Congressman David Schweikert (R-AZ) took to the House Floor last night to speak against an excessive Department of Justice regulation that would require every public swimming pool and jacuzzi to provide a permanently fixed lift. To view his full remarks, click here:

“This is one of those moments you have here in Congress where I swear we are almost talking about completely different things than the reality I live in.

“I am blessed to represent Scottsdale, Arizona, one of the resort centers in the country.

“A month ago, I went and visited a resort right down the street from where I grew up. They have seven pools, if you count the jacuzzis. And I am walking through the resort with the manager, who I have known since high school, and he is just looking at me with these huge eyes saying, ‘have they lost their minds?’

“First point he makes, is that they have had a portable lift for a decade. And no one has ever asked for it.

“Second point he made, and he was emphatic on this, was twenty years ago because of their tort liability they got rid of all the diving boards. And now we're going to demand they build six structures up against a jacuzzi?

“I can't wait to see who is going to be standing there monitoring those beer drinking and not climbing on top and leaping into a jacuzzi and using it as swimming pool diving board. Anyone familiar with the term attractive nuisance? Are you going to step up and say, ‘We are going to provide you tort liability’ when someone jumps off and ends up in horrible shape because twenty years ago we made a point to remove these types of hazards from the sides of pools and jacuzzis?

“But the third thing he was just livid on, was his point saying, ‘I have seven pools in my resort. We’re barely making it today and you are telling me I'm going to grind through my concrete and grind through my pool decking to build six fixed lifts near every pool and jacuzzi when no one has ever asked for the portable one in ten years?’

“What's wonderful about the amendment if you actually read it and move away from some of the rhetoric, is that it makes it very clear, that this is about building permanent structures next to those pools and jacuzzis. If they're going to mandate a portable—with the other caveats, ok, fine. Live with that.

“Let's actually step up and deal with this rationally because I fear the law of unintended consequences is going to be that some of my resorts are going to close down those jucuzzis, close down those pools from access to anyone when there is a pragmatic solution, which is embracing the portable lifts. From every call I have made up and down Scottsdale, and as you know we have resorts everywhere, I have not had a single manager call me back and say, ‘Yes, we are using our portable one.’”

BACKGROUND: Rep. John Carter (R-TX) had an amendment in H.R. 5326, the Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations bill to block the Department of Justice’s enforcement of this regulation.

In January 2012, the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division set forth new requirements for all facilities “of public accommodation” that go beyond those contained in a final rule issued in 2010 giving hotels and other residential communities no time to comply with this burdensome rule.

This new guidance requires a permanent lift be installed in every public pool, spa, or jacuzzi.

The number of businesses, recreation centers, and apartment complexes—and not just the large hotels and resorts—across the country that will have to comply is staggering. Not only will each body of water require its own lift, larger pools will require multiple points of entry in the form of a lift and a sloped entry. Perhaps even more staggering is the cost. A pool lift can run $2,500 - $9,700 and the installation of each lift can cost $500 - $3,000.

After pressure from the industry, the DOJ extended the compliance deadline for 60 days. Additionally, DOJ allowed for a 15-day comment period on a possible six-month extension. The DOJ needs to take into account the cost, resulting backlog on pool lift orders, compliance timeline, and the very real possibility that these fixtures will prove to be injurious attractive nuisances to children.

REP. SCHWEIKERT HONORS ISRAEL’S 64TH BIRTHDAY

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – Congressman David Schweikert (R-AZ) made the following statement today on the 64th anniversary of Israel’s birth:

“Today, we join the State of Israel, our closest ally, in celebrating the 64th anniversary of her birth. Born out of the ashes of the Holocaust, Israel stands as a stabilizing democratic force in a region long marred by tyranny and oppression.

“In true Israeli tradition, the day before her Independence Day, all Israelis join together to remember those 23,000 soldiers and terror victims who gave their lives for her existence. Join me in celebrating the Nation that stands today due to their ultimate sacrifice.”

REP. SCHWEIKERT STANDS FOR INDIVIDUAL PROTECTION, VOTES AGAINST ‘CISPA’

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – Congressman David Schweikert (R-AZ) made the following statement Thursday after voting against the Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act of 2011 (CISPA):

“I could not support this bill because of the lack of government accountability for individual protection.

“I have concerns that the private information gathered by the Department of Homeland Security would be passed on to other government entities that have little to no civilian oversight.

“Further, CISPA provides few limitations on the types and uses of this information that could be shared. Companies who hand data over to the government under CISPA are exempt from criminal and civil liabilities as long as those companies say they were acting ‘in good faith.’ While CISPA provides excellent protection for American companies, it provides little protection for American citizens.

“While we must protect America’s cybersecurity, I will not support a bill that encroaches on our civil liberties.”

REP. SCHWEIKERT REMEMBERS HOLOCAUST DAY

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – Congressman David Schweikert (R-AZ) made the following statement today in remembrance of Holocaust Day:

“Today we remember the six million Jewish lives lost under a regime of hate and horror. The Holocaust is something that should be taught and remembered by every generation, not for the evil, terror, and ashes, but for the hope, freedom, and strength that rose from them.

“May we never forget the life and liberty stolen from so many simply because of race and creed. Further, may we always stay vigilant to ensure that “never again” does not only apply to the past, but to the future.”

REP. SCHWEIKERT ANNOUNCES BUSINESSES PARTICIPATING IN HIS SECOND JOB FAIR

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Scottsdale, Ariz. – Today, Congressman David Schweikert (R-AZ) released the list of businesses participating in his second job fair at Scottsdale Community College on Friday, April 20, 2012. This event will connect area companies looking to hire with job seekers from all levels of expertise in the community.

Constituents are invited to attend workshops in the morning on the topics of Resume Writing Techniques and Interviewing Skills before the main event at 11 a.m.

The job fair will be held after the workshops and all in attendance will be invited to interact directly with representatives from dozens of local companies looking for employees. Job seekers are encouraged to bring resumes. Rep. Schweikert will attend this event.

This event will be held on Friday, April 20, and will kick off at 9:15 a.m. and finish at 2:00 p.m.
Scottsdale Community College is located off the 101 and Chaparral Road. Parking will be available. No registration necessary for job seekers.

REP. SCHWEIKERT JOB FAIR:

WHEN: Friday, April 20, 2012
TIME: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Job Fair in the Turquoise Room
WHERE: Scottsdale Community College
9000 E. Chaparral Road, Scottsdale, 85256

Workshops will be held in the Peridot Room:
9:15 – 9:45 a.m.: Interviewing Skills
10:00 – 11:00 a.m.: Resume Writing Techniques

BUSINESSES PARTICIPATING IN JOB FAIR

US Customs and Border Protection
The Art Institute of Phoenix
Epcor Water
Charles Schwab
Boeing
Leslie's Pool Supplies
CDW
ExpressScripts
Farm Bureau Financial Services
United States Army
Starbucks Coffee Company
Yelp
Scottsdale Healthcare
Electronic Consulting Services
Signature Technology Group
IO Data Centers
Technology Staffing Solutions
Grand Canyon University
Taser
American Valet
Macayo's Mexican Kitchen
Liberty Mutual Insurance
DES Arizona Workforce Connection
DES Child Support Division
International Cruises and Excursions
Scottsdale Community College
University of Phoenix
Esurance
HDS Inc.
Veterans Upward Bound
Dunkin Donuts
Nextiva Inc.
Lowes
Childcare Careers
A-1 Careers
Allied Forces
United States Air Force
Norwegian Cruise Line
Maricopa Community Colleges
Southwest Truck Driver Training
U-Haul International
United States Postal Service
Arizona Army National Guard
Sun Valley Solar
Jewish Family and Children Service
Arizona Medical Training Institute
Colonial Life
PayPal

For any questions, please contact Daniel Caldwell at 480-946-2411 or via email at Daniel.Caldwell@mail.house.gov. For press inquiries, please contact Rachel.Semmel@mail.house.gov.

NATION’S LARGEST TAXPAYER GROUP HONORS REP. SCHWEIKERT WITH “TAXPAYERS’ FRIEND AWARD”

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – Congressman David Schweikert (R-AZ), today was recognized for his outstanding pro-taxpayer voting record last year. The 362,000-member National Taxpayers Union (NTU), a nonpartisan citizen group, has announced that Schweikert is among the recipients of the 2011 “Taxpayers’ Friend Award.”

“As our nation continues to confront challenges to a strong economic recovery, fiscal discipline in Washington, DC has never been more important. Fortunately, residents in Arizona’s 5th District can count on Rep. Schweikert, to whom National Taxpayers Union is proud to present a ‘Taxpayers’ Friend Award,’” said NTU President Duane Parde.

The award is given to Representatives and Senators who achieve an “A” grade in NTU’s annual Rating of Congress. The Rating, which is based on every roll call vote affecting fiscal policy, assigns a “Taxpayer Score” to each Member of Congress that indicates his or her support for reducing or controlling federal spending, taxes, debt, and regulation. For 2011, a total of 337 House and 234 Senate votes were selected.

NTU Executive Vice President Pete Sepp said, "Congressman David Schweikert's excellent performance on our 2011 Rating placed him in the top tier of House Members working to protect taxpayers. By casting wise votes day in and day out on behalf of limited government, David Schweikert has proven he's willing to do more than just talk about restoring fiscal responsibility to Washington. NTU welcomes Congressman Schweikert to the elite circle of Taxpayers' Friends!"

In the latest Congress, 53 lawmakers attained scores sufficient for an “A” grade (a minimum score of 85 percent in the House and 90 percent the Senate) and therefore won the “Taxpayers’ Friend Award” – representing a decline from the 79 who achieved the honor in 2010. On the other hand, more than 200 Senators and Representatives were tagged with the title of “Big Spender” for posting “F” grades (20 percent or less in the House and 19 percent or less in the Senate).

Unlike those of other organizations, NTU’s annual Rating does not simplistically focus on only a handful of equally weighted “key votes.” For this reason, it has received praise from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, including the late Sen. (and “Golden Fleece Award” creator) William Proxmire (D-WI).

BACKGROUND

NTU is a nonpartisan, nonprofit citizen group founded in 1969 to work for lower taxes, smaller government, and economic freedom at all levels. Note: The 2011 Rating and a searchable Rating database from 1992 to 2011 is available at www.ntu.org. For questions about the Rating, its history, or methodology, please contact NTU Communications Manager Doug Kellogg at (703) 683-5700.

REP. SCHWEIKERT PLEASED PRESIDENT OBAMA SIGNED ‘JOBS’ ACT INTO LAW

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Scottsdale, Ariz. – Congressman David Schweikert (R-AZ) made the following statement after the president signed the ‘JOBS’ Act into law. This package included two of his bills, the most of any Member:

“I am pleased to see the president signed the 'JOBS' Act into law today. The American people deserve a government that upholds the principles of economic freedom and does not create harmful barriers to free enterprise and capital formation. For that very reason, the 'JOBS' Act makes important progress giving job creators the freedom to achieve prosperity,” said Rep. David Schweikert.

BACKGROUND ON H.R. 1070:
The Small Company Capital Formation Act reduces regulation and makes it easier for small businesses to raise capital and test the waters for a future initial public offering.

H.R. 1070 reduces burdensome regulation on small business by increasing the SEC Regulation A exemption from $5 million to $50 million.

Regulation A, on the books since 1933, exempts small companies from the SEC’s filing requirements for less than $5 million. Though Regulation A has periodically increased from its initial ceiling of $100,000 in 1933 to the current $5 million ceiling in 1992, it has not been increased to reflect the rising costs associated with bringing a small company public over the last two decades. Increasing the Regulation A threshold will lower the cost of raising capital for small businesses.

The Small Company Capital Formation Act ensures that this ceiling is raised when necessary and as economic conditions warrant by requiring that the SEC revisit this ceiling every two years. Should the SEC find that the ceiling needs to be higher, this bill provides them with the authority to increase the limit.

This bill first passed the House on November 2, 2011, by a margin of 421-1.

The Senate version of this bill was introduced in September by Sens. Toomey (R-PA) and Tester (D-MT).

BACKGROUND ON H.R. 2167:
Many small businesses are forced to file as a public company because of an obscure regulation that requires companies with 499 shareholders and $10 million in assets to file with the SEC.

This current shareholder threshold rule was originally adopted in 1964, and has not been modernized since.

This regulation causes undue pressure on our markets because it restricts the number of shareholders and assets these companies can have. In turn, this severely limits the growth stages for companies, which need time and flexibility to develop. Without regulatory relief, these small businesses will not grow or they will be acquired by larger firms. Both of these outcomes lead to fewer jobs and less innovation.

H.R. 2167, Private Company Flexibility and Growth Act, removes these barriers to capital formation for small companies by raising the shareholder threshold from 500 to 1,000 shareholders.

REP. SCHWEIKERT ANNOUNCES HIGH SCHOOL ART COMPETITION WINNERS

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Scottsdale, Ariz. – Tuesday, Rep. David Schweikert announced the winners of the 2012 Congressional High School Art Competition An Artistic Discovery for Arizona’s 5th District:

“Congratulations to each of this year’s winners and a big thanks to all who participated. The competition was stiff and the results were stunning. We have tremendous talent in Arizona’s 5th District, and I look forward to placing the winning pieces in my offices,” Rep. Schweikert said.

Award Recipients

First Place
Karen Baker, Desert Mountain High School
Title: La Lune

Second Place
Brittany Branch, Desert Mountain High School
Title: Pure Elegance

Third Place
Elizabeth Attridge, New School for the Arts and Academics
Title: Portrait of a Young Woman

Honorable Mention
Brenley Markowitz, Desert Mountain High School
Title: Blossoming

Honorable Mention
Michal Jane Sears, New School for the Arts and Academics
Title: J’ai dessine celui-ci a deux heures du matin dans ma cuisine

In 1982, Congress established an art competition to showcase the talents of our nation’s young artists. Each spring, thousands of high school students from around the country participate for the opportunity to have their art work displayed prominently in the tunnels and walkways of the U.S. Capitol Building.

Karen Baker’s winning piece of artwork will represent Arizona’s 5th District in the 30th Annual Congressional Art Show and will be on display for a year in the United States Capitol campus along with other Congressional state winners. The second and third place pieces by Brittany Branch and Elizabeth Attridge respectively, will be displayed in Rep. Schweikert’s Washington and Scottsdale office. The students’ art is currently on display at the Arizona Art Alliance Gallery until Saturday, April 7.

NOTE: Pictures of this event are here.

REP. SCHWEIKERT TO HOST SECOND JOB FAIR IN SCOTTSDALE

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Scottsdale, Ariz. – Building on the success of his first job fair, Congressman David Schweikert (R-AZ), announced today that he will host a second job fair at Scottsdale Community College on Friday, April 20, 2012. This event will connect area companies looking to hire with job seekers from all levels of expertise in the community. A copy of the event flyer can be found here:

Constituents are invited to attend workshops in the morning on the topics of Resume Writing Techniques and Interviewing Skills before the main event at 11 a.m.

Any businesses interested in participating in Rep. Schweikert’s Job Fair, please contact Daniel Caldwell at 480-946-2411 or via email at Daniel.Caldwell@mail.house.gov. For press inquiries, please contact Rachel.Semmel@mail.house.gov.

REP. SCHWEIKERT VOTES FOR MOST CONSERVATIVE BUDGET TO PASS HOUSE IN MODERN HISTORY

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – Congressman David Schweikert (R-AZ), a cosponsor of the Republican Study Committee’s (RSC) alternative budget for FY 2013, made the following statement today after he voted for the RSC budget and then subsequently the Ryan budget. The RSC proposal returns spending to 2008 levels and balances the budget in 5 years:

“I am not only a cosponsor of the RSC budget, but a staunch advocate for demonstrating that our budget can be brought into balance in five years. I am disappointed this did not pass, but thank my colleagues, Reps. Jim Jordan and Scott Garrett, for their leadership in taking our debt seriously.

“The Ryan budget includes many good policy provisions. While it does not come into balance as fast as the RSC budget alternative, it is still the most conservative budget to passed the House in modern history.

“Sadly, it is a testament to how serious our fiscal situation is that even this budget takes seven years to unwind our bloated entitlement system. We must continue to do more to get our fiscal house in order.”

REP. SCHWEIKERT ANNOUNCES HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS EVENT

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 19:52:09 GMT

REP. SCHWEIKERT TO HOST ‘HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS EVENT’ TOMORROW

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 13:51:24 GMT

REP. SCHWEIKERT TO HOST JOB FAIR IN SCOTTSDALE

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 20:18:05 GMT