Michael Turner RSS Articles

Turner: “What the IRS Did Absolutely Should be Illegal”

Fri, 17 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Today at a hearing before the House Committee on Ways and Means, outgoing Internal Revenue Service Commissioner Steve Miller, stated that the actions of IRS employees targeting conservative organizations was “absolutely not illegal.” Turner in the following statement calls on fellow lawmakers to join him in making it an illegal act:

“Unfortunately, Commissioner Miller is right. The actions by the IRS bureaucrats who targeted conservative groups aren’t illegal. In fact the most punishment they could stand to receive is termination if their supervisor approves it. Targeting Americans for their political beliefs should absolutely be an illegal act. If you’re an employee of the IRS, and use the government for partisan political purposes, you should receive the same punishment as if a member of the president’s cabinet had undertaken that action: 5 years in jail, a $5,000 fine, or both. That’s why I introduced legislation to ensure that there is a deterrent for those who seek to abuse the role of our government. I’m proud to have the support of 86 of my colleagues and am calling on my fellow legislators to add their names to this common sense bill.”

This week, Turner introduced the Taxpayer Nondiscrimination & Protection Act of 2013. The bill would amend Title 18 of the U.S. Code to make it a crime for an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) employee to discriminate against an individual or group on the basis of their protected rights. In addition, it expressly clarifies that political speech and political expression are protected rights. Sen. Marco Rubio has introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

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Turner Statement on DOD Civilian Furloughs

Tue, 14 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Turner (OH-10) released the following statement upon Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel announcing that Defense Department civilian employees would be furloughed 11 days as a result of sequestration:

“Today’s announcement is exactly why I voted against sequestration – it will severely impact hardworking civilian DOD employees and put further strain on our community. I have heard from business owners, restaurant employees, local leaders, and everyone in between who has told me how sequestration has impacted their lives. The president promised Ohioans that sequestration wouldn’t happen. Unfortunately, he and the Senate have failed to meet the House on a solution to this mess that I opposed from the beginning. We cannot do it alone. We need the leadership of the president and the Senate to halt these furloughs and to inject stability back into our community.”

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Turner to Introduce Taxpayer Nondiscrimination and Protection Act

Mon, 13 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Turner (OH-10), today will introduce the Taxpayer Nondiscrimination & Protection Act of 2013. The bill would amend Title 18 of the U.S. Code to make it a crime for an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) employee to discriminate against an individual or group on the basis of their protected rights. In addition, it expressly clarifies that political speech and political expression are protected rights.

“Americans of all political beliefs have been rightly outraged by the revelation of the IRS’ efforts to target certain political organizations. The fact that this could occur with little to no corrective action against those who seek to silence their fellow citizens is unacceptable. That’s why I’m taking immediate action and introducing this bill,” said Turner

Currently, IRS employees who discriminate against taxpayers may be subject to termination. However that is at the discretion of their supervisors. Turner's bill would increase the maximum penalty to a $5,000 fine, 5 years in prison, or both - which is the same maximum penalty for a member of the president's cabinet who directs an employee to take that sort of action.

“Americans should not have to wonder if their government is actively looking to subvert them or their political views. We live in a nation where respect for differing beliefs and a vibrant political discourse play an important role in shaping our government. This is about protecting the rights of all Americans, and their ability to freely express their political thoughts,” added Turner.

NOTE: A copy of the legislation is available here.

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Turner to White House to Discuss Military Sexual Assault

Thu, 09 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Turner (OH-10), Co-Chair of the Military Sexual Assault Prevention Caucus, has been invited to the White House today to discuss the issue of sexual assault in the military. The meeting, today at 10:30am, will be with President Obama’s senior adviser Valerie Jarrett and Tina Tchen, the first lady's chief of staff. Turner yesterday teamed with Congresswoman Niki Tsongas (MA-3) to introduce the BE SAFE Act. The legislation addresses issues with Article 60 of the UCMJ’s convening authority, and creates an automatic discharge for conviction in major sexual assault cases.

“I look forward to today’s discussion at the White House. The president, as commander-in-chief has a responsibility to ensure the safety and morale of our men and women in uniform. This issue strikes at the heart of our servicemember’s ability to successfully carry out their duties. The president must lead and demonstrate to the leaders of our Department of Defense that sexual assault is not just bad behavior or a small problem, but a crime that must be taken seriously,” said Turner

Previously, Turner and Tsongas co-authored the STRONG Act and were successful in getting many of its provisions passed through the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in recent years.

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Turner Statement on White House Meeting on Sexual Assault in the Military

Thu, 09 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Turner, Co-Chair of the Military Sexual Assault Prevention Caucus, released the following statement after meeting with White House officials and a group of bipartisan, bicameral lawmakers on the issue of sexual assault in the military:

“Today’s meeting was a positive discussion about the path forward legislatively on the issue of sexual assault in the military. The White House and Congressional members in attendance were in agreement on the need to change the culture in the military which discourages the reporting of sexual assaults. In addition, with the legislative proposals that are seriously being discussed, there are opportunities to further collaboration to create an overarching effort in the coming House and Senate National Defense Authorization Acts. I feel that there is positive momentum on this issue. I’d like to thank the White House for listening to us today. It is my hope they continue to play an active role in this issue which has a direct impact on the safety and morale of our men and women in uniform.”

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Turner Joins in Introducing Legislation to Level the Playing Field for American Manufacturers

Thu, 09 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Turner (OH-10) and Congressman Matt Cartwright (PA-17), along with 30 original co-sponsors, joined in introducing the bi-partisan Foreign Manufacturers Legal Accountability Act (FMLAA).

The FMLAA would require foreign manufacturers doing business in the U.S. to identify a registered agent authorized to accept service of process on behalf of the manufacturer. Registering an agent would constitute an acceptance of jurisdiction of the state in which the agent is located.

“A level playing field ensures that American consumers and businesses have recourse when a foreign manufacturer’s products cause them harm. Currently, our laws allow foreign businesses and their products not to avoid being held to the same standards as those made by American businesses. This bill would change that,” said Turner

This FMLAA will allow Americans to overcome the current procedural hurdles and delays by serving legal papers on registered agents of foreign manufacturers in the United States. Under the bill, relevant federal agencies will require that foreign manufacturers of products regulated by their agencies register an agent who will accept service of process.

“This bipartisan legislation is a commonsense solution to an issue which is affecting manufacturers in Ohio and across the country. Our consumers deserve the peace of mind that they have an means to address injuries brought on by the harmful, defective products of a foreign manufacturers. When businesses are required to compete fairly across marketplaces, and when Americans can hold bad actors accountable, Ohio businesses succeed, and so does America,” added Turner.

The bill also ensures that, at a minimum, courts in the state where the registered agent is located will have personal jurisdiction over the foreign manufacturer. Currently, some foreign manufacturers are able to avoid the jurisdiction of every state and federal court even though they sell their products in the United States market.

The bill applies to major product categories including consumer goods, drugs, cosmetics and chemicals, and it authorizes a study of how to apply similar rules to foreign food producers as well as to component parts contained within products imported into the United States.

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Turner, Tsongas Introduce BE SAFE Act

Wed, 08 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Turner (OH-10) and Congresswoman Niki Tsongas (MA-3), Co-Chairs of the Military Sexual Assault Prevention Caucus, have introduced the Better Enforcement for Sexual Assault Free Environments Act of 2013 (BE SAFE) Act. This legislation continues the lawmakers’ bipartisan effort to combat the issue of sexual assault in the military. Previously, they co-authored the STRONG Act and were successful in getting many of its provisions passed through the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in recent years.

Specifically, this bill takes on the convening authority’s unfettered discretion and authority under Article 60 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice by removing the convening authority’s ability to change or dismiss an adjudged court-martial conviction for any charge or specification except in the case of minor offenses. It also limits the convening authority’s discretion to commute or lessen the adjudged sentence determinations of a military court-martial.

“Since taking on this issue over 7 years ago, I have grown more troubled by the military’s resistance to change its culture. With the unilateral decision by Lt. Gen. Franklin to overturn a sexual assault conviction and rob a victim of justice, it was clear further legislative action was needed. This issue and many others remain to be resolved. However, only so much can be done by Congress. It is up to the military and its leadership to come to the realization that this is not an issue of bad behavior, but that it is a crime,” said Turner

In addition, the BE SAFE Act requires that a person found guilty of an offense of rape, sexual assault, forcible sodomy, or an attempt to commit any of those offenses receive a punishment that includes, at a minimum, a dismissal or dishonorable discharge. The bill also builds upon Turner and Tsongas’ efforts to take care of the victim and instill confidence in the system by eliminating the five-year statute of limitations on trial by Court-Martial for sexual assault and sexual assault of a child, and expanding the legal assistance services available to military sexual assault victims.

“The disturbing prevalence of sexual assault in the military undermines the trust and shatters the confidence needed for a military unit to succeed. In recent months we have seen reports rise, commanders and supervisors abuse their authority, and an officer in charge of prevention efforts allegedly commit the crimes he swore to stop. This is clearly a systemic problem and accountability is needed at every level, from everyone – officer and enlisted alike. This legislation will take steps to correct some of the recent alarming issues that have arisen due to failures of the military justice system. It will also continue our push to provide victims of sexual assault access to legal counsel, which is a critical step in the process of creating an environment that encourages victims to report these crimes and in bringing those responsible to justice. This legislation is one step, and I am committed to continuing to work with Congressman Turner and our colleagues in Congress on this critical national security issue,” said Tsongas.

NOTE: A section by section breakdown follows below.

Section 1: Short Title and Table of Contents

Section 2: Limitations on Convening Authority Discretion Regarding Court-Martial Findings and Sentence

· Removes the convening authority’s ability to change or dismiss an adjudged court-martial conviction for any charge or specification except for a charge or specification for a minor offense.

· Limits the convening authority’s discretion to modify or lessen an adjudged sentence.

· Requires the convening authority to provide a detailed written explanation for any decision disapproving, commuting, or suspending an adjudged court-martial conviction or sentence for any charge or specification.

Section 3: Mandatory Discharge or Dismissal for Certain Sex-Related Offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice and Trial of Such Offenses by General Courts-Martial

· Requires that a person found guilty of an offense of rape, sexual assault, forcible sodomy, or an attempt to commit any of those offenses receive a punishment that includes, at a minimum, a dismissal or dishonorable discharge.

· Establishes that if court-martial is warranted, only general courts-martial have jurisdiction over an offense of rape, sexual assault, forcible sodomy, or an attempt to commit any of those offenses.

Section 4: Elimination of Five-Year Statute of Limitations on Trial By Court-Martial for

Additional Offenses Involving Sex-Related Crimes

· Eliminates five-year statute of limitations on Trial by Courts-Martial for sexual assault and sexual assault of a child, pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 920 (b) and 920b (b) (Articles 120 (b) and 120b (b) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

Section 5: Consideration of Need For, and Authority to Provide For, Temporary Administrative Reassignment or Removal of a Member on Active Duty Who is Accused of Committing a Sexual Assault or Related Offense

· Affirms commanders’ authority to consider the need for and provide for the temporary administrative reassignment or removal of a member on active duty who is accused of committing a sexual assault or other sex-related offense from a position of authority or assignment.

Section 6: Victims’ Counsel For Victims of Sex-Related Offenses and Related Provisions

· Creates 10 USC 1044e to establish the authority for military legal counsel to provide legal assistance services to victims of sex-related offenses.

· Requires enhanced training for all military and civilian attorneys assigned to provide legal assistance to victims of sex-related offenses.

· Establishes Reporting Requirements for Secretary of Defense and the Sec. 576 Independent Review Panel to assess: (1) the Services’ implementation of the 1044e Victim Counsel provision; (2) the roles, responsibilities, and authorities of the Victims’ Counsel to provide legal assistance to victims of sex-related offenses; and (3) whether the Victims’ Counsel roles and authorities should be expanded to provide additional service and/or legal standing on behalf of the victim in criminal proceedings.

Section 7: Secretary of Defense Report on Sentencing Reform

· Requires the Secretary of Defense to provide Congress with a report on sentencing guidelines and mandatory minimum sentencing provisions under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

Section 8: Secretary of Defense Report on Role of Commanders in Military Justice Process

· Requires the Secretary of Defense to submit a report to Congress containing an assessment of the current role of commanders in the administration of military justice and the investigation, prosecution, and adjudication of offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Specifically, the Secretary of Defense shall assess the post-trial authority of the commander as convening authority under 10 U.S.C. 860, and include a recommendation regarding whether this authority should be further modified or repealed.

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Turner Highlights Positive Impacts of American Energy Production, Export

Tue, 07 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Turner (OH-10), who has introduced the Expedited LNG for American Allies Act (H.R. 580), submitted the following statement for the record as the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy and Power held a hearing on “U.S. Energy Abundance: Exports and the Changing Global Energy Landscape.”

Turner’s legislation seeks to help strengthen our strategic partnerships with key allies, reduce the trade deficit and boost job growth right here at home by streamlining the regulatory process to export natural gas to North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) countries, Japan and others. This bill is a modified version of the LNG for NATO Act, originally authored by Senator Richard Lugar (R-IN) and which Turner introduced as the House companion bill in the 112^th Congress. Turner serves as the Chairman of the U.S. Delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly.

House Committee on Energy and Commerce

Subcommittee on Energy and Power

“U.S. Energy Abundance: Exports and the Changing Global Energy Landscape”

Statement for the Record

The Honorable Michael R. Turner

Chairman Whitfield, Ranking Member Rush, and Members of the subcommittee, thank you for the opportunity to submit a statement for the record for this important hearing.

Helping our allies diversify their energy resources is important to strengthening our strategic partnerships and bolstering security. That is why I authored H.R. 580, the Expedited LNG for American Allies Act, which seeks to help bolster our alliances, reduce the trade deficit and boost job growth right here at home. Specifically, the bill streamlines the regulatory process to export natural gas to NATO countries, Japan and possibly others. H.R. 580, the House companion measure to Senator John Barrasso’s (R-WY) S. 192, is an updated version of legislation from the 112th Congress introduced by Senator Richard Lugar (R-IN) and myself.

Over the last several years, exploration and development of U.S. natural gas, particularly shale gas, has increased significantly. The United States is one the largest producers of natural gas in the world, and according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), has nearly a 100-year supply. In fact, last week, the Department of the Interior announced that there is three times the amount of shale gas in North Dakota, South Dakota and Montana than previously estimated.

As a result of increased production, the price of U.S. natural gas has fallen, making it competitive in the global market place. This presents significant opportunities to export U.S. natural gas and create American jobs. A recent Department of Energy-commissioned report found that increasing exports of natural gas would have positive economic benefits for our country. In my home state of Ohio, exploration and development in the Utica Shale would have a $5 billion economic impact and create or support nearly 66,000 jobs in Ohio by 2014.

As energy security continues to play an important role in global relationships and dialogue, increased U.S. natural gas production also stands to benefit our strategic allies abroad. In my role as Chairman of the U.S. Delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, many foreign leaders and officials have expressed to me the need to diversify energy resources away from one source or from unstable regions. Several of the largest natural gas importers are also NATO members with strong national security ties to the United States.

In recent years, various disputes have caused several European countries to experience natural gas supply disruptions from Russia, the largest supplier of natural gas to Europe. Turkey relies on 20 percent of its natural gas from Iran. Earlier this year, Islamist militants attacked a natural gas facility in Algeria, which is the third largest exporter of natural gas to Europe.

Japan, a strategic ally in Asia and already the world's largest importer of natural gas, may need to seek greater imports of natural gas as a result of its 2011 nuclear plant disaster. Japan already relies on 42 percent of its natural gas from Russia, the Middle East and North Africa. According to recent press reports, Japan is negotiating with Russia to import more natural gas.

Increasing natural gas exports would not only help reduce our trade deficit and create jobs for American workers, but also help our key allies diversify their energy resources, bolster their energy and national security, and strengthen our strategic alliances.

There have been several studies examining the geopolitical impact of exporting U.S. natural gas. A recent report by the Brookings Institute entitled “Liquid Markets: Assessing the Case for U.S. Exports of Liquefied Natural Gas” states:

“The risk of high reliance on Russian gas has been a principal driver of European energy policy in recent decades. Among central and eastern European states, particularly those formerly aligned with the Soviet Union such as Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic, the issue of reliance on imports of Russian gas is a primary energy security concern and has inspired energy policies aimed at diversification of fuel sources for power generation. From the U.S. perspective such Russian influence in the affairs of these democratic nations is an impediment to efforts at political and economic reform. The market power of Gazprom, Russia’s state-owned gas monopoly is evident in these countries.”

“…the addition of a large, market-based producer will indirectly serve to increase gas supply diversity to Europe, thereby providing European consumers with increased flexibility and market power.”

On our key partnerships in Asia, the Brookings Institute report states:

“Increased LNG exports will provide similar assistance to strategic U.S. allies in the Pacific Basin.”

“…the ability of the United States to provide a degree of increased energy security and pricing relief to LNG importers in the region will be an important economic and strategic asset.”

A study by Deloitte entitled “Exporting the American Renaissance – Global Impacts of LNG Exports from the United States” states:

“Maintaining market share and oil-indexed prices are major concerns for Russia.”

“Russia has jealously guarded its European market share through control of its pipeline transit capacities. By restricting access to its pipelines, Russia is able to prevent supplies from other countries…from reaching lucrative European markets and competing with Russian supplies.”

“U.S. LNG exports will likely apply greater pressure on Russia and other gas exporters to transition to competitively set prices.”

The surplus of U.S. natural gas production is already having an impact on global natural gas markets. Natural gas previously destined for the United States, but no longer needed as a result of increased production, was diverted to other markets. In 2012, nearly half of natural gas supplied to Europe was purchased under spot contracts. A recent article in the Wall Street Journal entitled “In Reversal, Neighbors Squeeze Russia’s Gazprom Over Natural Gas Prices” states:

“In Europe, where Gazprom once had a reputation for hardball tactics and dictating prices, customers are tapping new sources. Booming shale-gas production in the U.S. has freed up vast quantities of other fuel from around the world, including American coal no longer needed at home. With that new leverage, Gazprom's European customers have squeezed billions of dollars in discounts from the company, and they are pressing for more.”

Under section 3 of the Natural Gas Act, companies seeking to export natural gas must receive permits from the Department of Energy, which determines if such exports are in the public interest. Export permits to countries with which the United States has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) are automatically approved. For non-FTA countries, there is a regulatory process to determine if such exports are in the public interest.

In general when it comes to exporting U.S. goods, we often talk about barriers in other countries our U.S. producers must overcome to sell their products overseas. In this case, we have, in fact, placed regulatory barriers on ourselves to sell natural gas to consumers willing and eager to buy.

There are currently 20 applications before the Department of Energy from companies seeking approval to export natural gas to non-FTA countries. As the Department of Energy evaluates these applications, I hope it takes into consideration not only the domestic economic benefits, but also the opportunities to strengthen our strategic partnerships with key allies and bolster our national security.

At the same time, I believe we can do more to help our allies diversify their energy resources while creating job opportunities right here at home. My bill, H.R. 580, the Expedited LNG for American Allies Act, would make approval of export licenses to NATO countries and Japan automatic. The measure also creates a process that allows the addition of other foreign countries to this list if the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, determines that it would be in our national security interests.

Mr. Chairman, exporting U.S. natural gas presents opportunities to create American jobs while helping to bolster our strategic alliances. Thank you again for the opportunity to submit a statement for the record. I look forward to continuing to work with you on this important issue.

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Turner Statement on DOD FY12 Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military

Tue, 07 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Turner, Co-Chair of the Military Sexual Assault Prevention Caucus, released the following statement upon being briefed by the Defense Department on their Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military:

“The latest number released by the Department of Defense represent the continuation of a troubling trend. We have learned of an increase in the amount of servicemembers experiencing unwanted sexual contact and a decrease in the rate that those incidents are reported. The exact opposite direction of what would indicate a cultural and statistical shift on a problem that effects mission readiness and overall morale of our forces. Once again, I plan to act on this issue through the NDAA and standalone legislation. It’s clear that much more needs to be done both legislatively and structurally, to root out this problem.”

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Turner Leads OH Delegation in Support of UAS Application

Mon, 06 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Turner (OH-10) has lead the Ohio Congressional Delegation in a letter of support for the selection of the Ohio/Indiana Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Center & Test Complex to be selected as one of the six UAS Test Sites required by the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (Public Law 112-95). The selection of Ohio and Indiana as a UAS Test Site would be a boost to research endeavors in the region as well as local economies.

Turner helped co-author the language establishing the test ranges and included several complimentary provisions in the NDAA. Turner’s provisions, which were included in the FY12 National Defense Authorization Act and the long-term FAA reauthorization, also require that the FAA consult with DoD and NASA on site selection.

In the letter, the Delegation pointed to the logistical and technical advantages of selecting the Ohio/Indiana bid for a test site: “With access to restricted airspace, existing Memorandums of Agreement (MOA) and certificates of waiver or authorization (COA), the Ohio and Indiana region currently hosts robust UAS operations, with more than 1,000 sorties flown in the proposed airspace last year alone. The knowledge base of area pilots, researchers and engineers already operating in the UAS aeronautical specialties brings extraordinary understanding, commitment and a proven track record of performance and safety.”

In addition, the Ohio/Indiana bid is bolstered by existing FAA partners conducting research and development work for UAS integration in those states. This includes the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Glenn Research Center, and the Naval Surface War Center Crane Division (NSWC Crane). These facilities and their extensive contractor base hold key technologies needed for the integration of UAS into the national airspace, including sense and avoid technology at AFRL, secure command, control and communication technology at NASA Glenn Research Center, and intelligence and information technology at NSWC Crane.

NOTE: A copy of the letter sent to Secretary LaHood is below.

May 3, 2013

The Honorable Ray LaHood

Secretary of Transportation

Washington, D.C. 20590

Dear Mr. Secretary:

We are writing to express our strong support for the selection of the Ohio/Indiana Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Center & Test Complex to be selected as one of the six UAS Test Sites required by the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (Public Law 112-95).

The Ohio/Indiana proposal fully meets the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) requirements to ensure the safe and responsible operation of UASs in the national airspace system. This effort will be carried out in close proximity to a unique and powerful team of FAA partners already conducting research and development work for UAS integration, including the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Glenn Research Center, and the Naval Surface War Center Crane Division (NSWC Crane). These facilities and their extensive contractor base hold key technologies needed for the integration of UAS into the national airspace, including sense and avoid technology at AFRL, secure command, control and communication technology at NASA Glenn Research Center, and intelligence and information technology at NSWC Crane. The decision to locate significant UAS research and development in proximity to these test facilities represents a new and efficient aerospace national model.

Our states are dedicated to strengthening existing partnerships with the FAA in seeking solutions to the integration of UAS into the national airspace. With access to restricted airspace, existing Memorandums of Agreement (MOA) and certificates of waiver or authorization (COA), the Ohio and Indiana region currently hosts robust UAS operations, with more than 1,000 sorties flown in the proposed airspace last year alone. The knowledge base of area pilots, researchers and engineers already operating in the UAS aeronautical specialties brings extraordinary understanding, commitment and a proven track record of performance and safety. The Ohio and Indiana region also represents a broad array of weather conditions, allowing for adequate testing of aircraft and equipment in any weather conditions they may experience anywhere in the national airspace. Moreover, the diverse conditions among the test locations in the American heartland provide testing under conditions that will yield valuable data that will efficiently translate through most parts of our Nation. Because academic involvement is vital to maintaining next generation technology, the Center has partnered with 11 universities within the two states—most of the major institutions of higher education within Ohio and Indiana.

Protecting privacy is paramount to the successful introduction of commercial UASs into the national airspace. Our states are prepared to be the national pathfinder in understanding and developing the concepts of UAS law in privacy, liability, and airspace access. The Ohio/Indiana UAS Center and Test Complex will work with partners in industry and local colleges and universities to develop innovative approaches to privacy law, public policy and community awareness. This strategy of integrating legal policy development acknowledges that UAS access into the national airspace is more than a technical matter, but also requires thoughtful consideration of policy and legal dimensions. The Ohio/Indiana UAS Center and Test Complex is poised to develop these dimensions in a mutually supported approach.

Finally, the expansion of a UAS industry in Ohio and Indiana will contribute to significant economic development and job creation not only in our states but the entire Midwest region. Through deliberate cultivation of industry and research partners, and planned investment in early commercialization, we are confident that major UAS industrial growth can be achieved through our selection as an FAA Test Site. With key research and development activities associated with a test site taking place in the region, we expect to attract the rest of the supply chain, including manufacturing and assembly. Because of the large aerospace manufacturing sector already present in Ohio and Indiana, the selection of our proposal stands to provide high job gains in the region. While the greatest impact will be in the Midwest, this growth will also stimulate a national competitiveness in the UAS aerospace industry. The United States can be the leader as these technologies emerge, and Ohio and Indiana want to lead the way.

As you know, the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 establishes a tight schedule for the development of plans to integrate UASs into the National Airspace System. The selection of the Ohio/Indiana UAS Center & Test Complex will significantly enhance the FAA’s ability to create the policies needed to meet the diverse national interests associated with these aircraft in a safe and timely manner.

Thank you for your consideration.

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Congressional Art Competition Deadline

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 15:02:13 GMT

The Competition is open to all high school students who live in Ohio’s Third Congressional District. Students will compete for one of four generous academic scholarships and the opportunity to visit Washington, D.C. this summer.

Military Service Academy Day

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 14:23:07 GMT

During the Academy Day program, students interested in being nominated to US military service academies will have an opportunity to speak with representatives from each of the five academies.

Deadline for Congressional Page Program Applications

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 19:37:34 GMT

Students entering into their junior or senior year this fall are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age; reside in the Third Congressional District

Congressional Art Competition Reception

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 15:05:40 GMT

Congressman Turner to Appear on Ohio News Network

Fri, 08 May 2009 13:32:50 GMT

Rep. Turner to Appear on WDTN’s Dayton & Beyond

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 18:15:19 GMT

Congressman Mike Turner will appear on WDTN’s Dayton & Beyond public affairs show, this Sunday, June 14 at 12:00 noon.

Rep. Turner on the Bucks Braun Show

Thu, 14 May 2009 19:56:38 GMT

Congressman Mike Turner will call-in on The Bucks Braun Show this Monday, May 18 at 10:30 a.m. ET. Congressman Turner will discuss his legislative agenda and issues of the day.