As Americans welcome a new President and a new Congress, I’d like to ask you to share with me your opinions on the most important issues facing our nation and state at this critical juncture. We often learn the most when we listen. Hearing first-hand what is important to you helps me better represent Texas.  

    Like you, I am passionate about the issues that most affect our state, and I know how important they are to you and your families. I encourage you to respond online at the survey page on my website or mail in your responses. The mailing address and survey website address are listed at the end of this column. I appreciate your participation and look forward to reading your responses.

1. Economy
     The current financial crisis threatens the economic security of every American family and business. Unemployment has reached a 15-year high, and our economy is in a recession. My goal is for American workers to earn a living wage and for their companies to be competitive, resulting in long-term success for businesses and their employees. As we work to find solutions to overcome the recession, what role do you think the federal government should play, in stimulating economic growth in this time of uncertainty?  Please rank in order of importance. Should they increase government spending on infrastructure, cut taxes, or pay down the national debt? 

2. Health Care
     There is a growing disparity in access to health care because of soaring medical costs and rising insurance premiums. We must find ways to make health care more accessible without sacrificing the quality of care that Americans enjoy. In your opinion, what are the greatest barriers in our healthcare system?  Please rank in order of importance. Is it the high cost of insurance and health care services, limited or no access to health insurance, quality of care provided (please explain), limitations on choice of health care practitioners, or the difficulty understanding health insurance plan coverage and payments?

3. Education
     Education is key to America’s success, and it will be critical to our leadership in the 21st century. Strengthening our schools, colleges, and universities is a goal all levels of government share. First, we must dramatically reduce the high school dropout rate. Second, we must emphasize science, technology, engineering, and math in our schools. These are the disciplines that spur creativity and new discoveries, which are essential to economic growth. What do you think Congress should do to strengthen public education?  Please rank in order of importance. Should they expand choice for alternatives to public schools (private, parochial, or magnet options), help attract more qualified teachers, raise teachers’ salaries, expand technical and vocational training in community colleges, or expand access to colleges with student aid and scholarships?

4. Transportation
     Transportation is a vital part of our daily lives. Yet, every day at rush hour, we are reminded of the strain that Texas’ growing population puts on our infrastructure. If we fail to meet our transportation needs, businesses and employers may relocate to areas with more suitable infrastructure. In your opinion, what should the federal government do to enhance the capabilities of our current transportation system? Please rank in order of importance. Should they increase use of rail as an alternative to automobiles, replace aging infrastructure, increase toll roads, develop more options for mass transit, or develop more options for use of lanes dedicated to multi-passenger cars (HOV)?

5. Legislative Priority
What should Congress’ legislative priority be this year? Please submit your responses to Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, Survey Responses, 961 Federal Building, 300 East 8th Street, Austin, Texas 78701. Or you can email: www.hutchison.senate.gov/survey.html