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Remarks from Bernice Stafford, AEP Government Relations Committee ChairOctober 21, 2008—In their citizen polling, on January 12, 2008, the Washington Post reported education as the No. 6 priority with the economy/jobs as No. 1 among the most important issues in this election. While the economy/jobs remained the No. 1 priority when monthly poll results were reported on October 11, education had dropped to No. 10. Yet, without a strong commitment to education the jobs the economy will need to power out of the current downward spiral will probably not materialize or will end up offshore. AEP is committed to a mix of federal and state level government relations activities, and that is exactly what will be needed to keep education as a top priority as federal and state officials grapple with the problems of the economy. National economics are very important to what happens at the state and local levels. Take California as an example: housing, entertainment, tourism, technology, financial services, and agriculture are big parts of the state's economy. And these industries have a huge interdependency upon the rest of the nation, and, in fact, the world. For these industries to do well the rest of the nation has to have disposable income to commit to businesses in California, and that will not happen until the credit markets "unfreeze" and become more liquid, which is why a few weeks ago Governor Schwarzenegger warned treasury secretary Paulson that the state might need a short-term loan to ensure schools continue to operate, teachers be paid and other state programs funded. With support from CEO, Charlene Gaynor, the Government Relations Committee will actively watch education-related key legislation at both the federal level and in key states to promote the interests of the membership. We will hold our first meeting under my leadership on Tuesday, October 28 at 2 p.m. EST to begin to map out how AEP can implement our 2008 legislative plan. And for those of you not on the committee but who have suggestions we would appreciate you communicating your thoughts in this vital area. If you would like to participate on the government relations committee call, please email Stacey Pusey, AEP Content Manager, for call information. | |||||
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