La. Legislature deadlocks over Gov. Blanco’s spending plan
December 14, 2006
Edward Castle Sr.
December 18, 2006
State Rep. Charlie Melancon was nominated this week to serve on the Energy and Commerce Committee when the 110th Congress convenes next year.
The Energy and Commerce Committee is one of four exclusive committees in the House. It has broad jurisdiction over health, energy, environment, telecommunications, commerce and oversight issues.
The Democratic Steering Committee nominated Melancon. The full Democratic Caucus will vote on the nomination when Congress adjourns in January.
“I am honored my colleagues have nominated me to serve on the Energy and Commerce Committee and am happy for the opportunity to advocate for Louisiana’s interests at this level,” Melancon said.Ü”As I told the leadership when I made my case for this appointment, Louisiana needs a voice on Energy and Commerce and we haven’t had one in the last two years. I am pleased they agreed.”
The last Louisiana congressmen to hold the coveted post were Billy Tauzin and Chris John.
“Like [them], I hope to use the position to encourage the growth of our energy industry, creating good-paying jobs for Louisianians and helping us move forward with rebuilding our economy.ÜI will also work to make improving the affordability and access of health care for all working Americans and developing telecommunications infrastructure, especially in rural communities, a priority for the committee. I look forward to this challenging new opportunity to serve Louisiana,” Melancon said.
This is Melancon’s second appointment in the last two weeks. Last week, his office announced that the congressman had been tapped to serve on the U.S. House Democratic Steering Committee. The committee is responsible for developing policy for the Democratic Caucus and making recommendations on appointments and committee assignments for members.
The committee includes members of the elected leadership as well as the chief deputy whips and chairs of the five exclusive committees and the Budget Committee.
In accepting the appointment, Melancon vowed to keep hurricane recovery, coastal restoration and protecting coastal communities from future storms top priorities for Congress and the leadership.
