Readers thank Baron Hill for vote

November 12, 2009

Our country has been waiting for such reform for far too long. Representative Hill thankfully realized that there are too many families here in Southern Indiana who could not afford to wait any longer. » More

Check Back for Updates!

September 29, 2009

Check back soon for updates from the campaign trail! » More

Baron Hill voted wisely

October 29, 2008

Baron Hill has shown himself to have the wisest head in the House of Representatives. » More

Reader endorses Baron Hill

October 28, 2008

Just last week, the Indiana State Fraternal Order of Police endorsed Congressman Baron Hill in his re-election bid. » More

Spence: Top 10 reasons for Baron Hill

October 28, 2008

The top 10 reasons to re-elect Baron Hill to Congress » More

Ninth District a repeat of 2006

October 26, 2008

INDIANAPOLIS -- What separates incumbent U.S. Rep. Baron Hill, D-9th, from GOP challenger Mike Sodrel is not just differing views on such key issues as the economy, taxes and immigration. It's also in what drives each of the candidates. » More

Re-elect Baron Hill

October 24, 2008

The people of Indiana's 9th House District are well represented by Democrat Baron Hill. As a cautious, moderate lawmaker, he fits his constituency. Pleasant, steady and accessible, he's the kind of fellow Hoosiers should want looking after their interests in Washington. » More

Thanks to Rep. Baron Hill

October 18, 2008

I am writing to publicly thank Rep. Baron Hill for his "no" vote on the recently passed bailout bill in Congress. » More

Hill Receives Indiana FOP Endorsement

October 17, 2008

Congressman Baron Hill has received the endorsement from the Indiana Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). On Wednesday afternoon, Hill held a press conference with Clark County Sheriff Danny Rodden and former Congressman Lee Hamilton to discuss his backing by the FOP and his work on national security issues. » More

Hill defends voting no on financial bill

October 15, 2008

U.S. Rep. Baron Hill (D-9th District) makes no apologies about voting not once but twice against the $700 billion financial rescue measure that garnered bipartisan support in Washington, D.C., earlier this month. » More

9th District race not sideshow

October 14, 2008

The 9th District congressional debate next week will not have the candidates wired to lie detectors. That completely predictable response to the feather-brained-had-it-been-really-serious Republican proposal that the candidates be wired for truth comes with debate sponsor Vincennes University turning the idea down flat. » More

Baron Hill tours city, campus: Congressman speaks on economy

October 13, 2008

Congressman Baron Hill, D-9th, didn't vote for the $700 billion package two weeks ago that many said would rescue the wrecked financial institutions on Wall Street. » More

Hill Reacts to Dismal Deficit Numbers

October 10, 2008

This week, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) reported that the federal budget deficit for fiscal year 2008 is $438 billion, $276 billion greater than the 2007 deficit. In response, Congressman Baron Hill issued the following statement: "These numbers are absolutely staggering. When the Bush Administration took office eight years ago, the CBO projected that we would run a surplus of $635 billion in fiscal year 2008. Instead, we find ourselves with a budget deficit of more than 400 billion dollars. That's a one trillion dollar swing in the wrong direction." » More

Hill: Congress needs to get back right after election

October 10, 2008

Congress should reconvene after the election and get to work on economic issues, U.S. Rep. Baron Hill told an audience at Hanover College on Thursday. » More

Economy concerns top forum dialogue at IUS

October 9, 2008

"I think it's going to be the dark ages again," Carol Johnson-Smith said of the economic future for the country during a forum on fiscal responsibility hosted by Congressman Baron Hill Wednesday. » More

Campus, city bus services receive grants

October 6, 2008

Fuel prices forced public transportation throughout Bloomington and IU's campus to cut back on services. Now both Bloomington Transit and IU Campus Bus Service will receive federal grants, but the new money won't be used to fill gas tanks. Last week, Congressman Baron Hill, D-9th, approved a grant of $915,618 in federal funds for the Bloomington Public Transportation Corporation. Hill also approved a $594,000 grant for the IU Campus Bus Service. » More

Hill Announces New VA Healthcare Center Open In Scottsburg

October 1, 2008

A new VA Healthcare Center has been temporarily located at 279 N. Gardner Street (US 31) in Scottsburg and will provide primary care and mental health services for veterans, 9th District Congressman Baron Hill said this week. » More

Congressman addresses state of the economy

October 1, 2008

Before Congressman Baron Hill, D-9th, called Tuesday's meeting to order, laughter and small talk filled the lobby of City Hall. But as soon as Hill began speaking, the mood quickly turned serious. » More

Scottsburg getting VA Health Care Center

September 30, 2008

Congressman Baron Hill has announced the opening of a temporary veterans' health care center in Scottsburg. The Department of Veterans Affairs anticipates the opening of the permanent clinic by spring 2009. » More

Hill in Bloomington Tuesday to talk about economic crisis

September 29, 2008

U.S. 9th District Rep. Baron Hill will meet with Southern Indiana constituents Tuesday evening at Bloomington's City Hall to talk about the national economic situation and what comes next. » More

Veterans health clinic heads to Scottsburg

September 27, 2008

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs anticipates the opening of a permanent clinic in Scottsburg by spring 2009. A temporary clinic will open there next week. "This is a critical service that will be brought to southern Indiana veterans," Indiana 9th District Rep. Baron Hill said Friday in announcing the clinic. "Veterans will have easier access to primary care and mental health services." » More

House Passes Energy Bill

September 17, 2008

After weeks of resistance from Democratic leaders, the House has approved a bill to allow more offshore oil drilling. But Republicans are blasting the bill as a "sham." "You're supposed to listen to your constituents, and more than 60% of my constituents say they want more drilling," says Ninth District Democrat Baron Hill. » More

9th debates uncertain

September 13, 2008

A disagreement over how a former congressman handled constituent files when leaving office two years ago has 9th District debates on hold. » More

Hill sponsoring trading regulation

August 27, 2008

U.S. Rep. Baron Hill, D-Ind., is sponsoring a bill, H.R. 6372, which would strengthen oversight of the commodity futures trading market. » More

President Signs Hill-Bayh Property Tax Relief into Law

July 30, 2008

Early this morning, the President signed the American Housing Rescue and Foreclosure Prevention Act, which contains federal property tax relief legislation authored by Congressman Baron Hill and Senator Evan Bayh. Today's signing marks the culmination of a yearlong push by Hill and Bayh to provide help to Hoosier homeowners affected by Indiana's recent reassessment. » More

Bayh, Hill pitch deduction to help with property tax relief

July 30, 2008

Some homeowners would receive a federal income tax break based on their state property taxes under a proposal introduced Wednesday by two members of Indiana's congressional delegation. » More

Hill Votes for Enhanced Investment in Homeland Security

July 25, 2007

Congressman Baron Hill voted today to approve sweeping legislation to protect America and strengthen the investment in homeland security. The Homeland Security Appropriations bill, H.R. 2638, was passed by a bipartisan vote of 268 to 150. The legislation makes border security a top priority, provides additional border patrol agents for the country, provides first responders with additional training and equipment, improves aviation and port security, and includes strong accountability measures in order to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being well spent. » More

Praise for Baron!

2006-10-05

I was so blown away by Baron's stirring response to the ethics in Congress question at the Women's Foundation Candidate's Forum at IUS. » More

Hill Fighting to Protect Social Security for Hoosier Seniors

September 25, 2008

During this time of economic turmoil, many Hoosier seniors are understandably concerned about the continued solvency of Social Security. Congressman Baron Hill has consistently fought to preserve the Social Security Trust Fund. In fact, he voted against both budget proposals put forth by his Democratic colleagues during this session of Congress, largely because the bills relied too heavily on taking from the Social Security Trust Fund to balance the budget. » More

House Passes Government Funding Bill: Bill includes economic stimulus and disaster funding provisions

September 25, 2008

Yesterday, Congressman Baron Hill supported legislation that would fund the government at Fiscal Year (FY) 2008 levels through March 6, 2009. The Consolidated Security, Disaster Assistance, and Continuing Appropriations Act, 2009, H.R. 2638, would provide disaster relief, loans for automotive factory updates, and home energy assistance. The bill also includes the FY 2009 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, Defense, and Homeland Security Appropriations bills. H.R. 2638 passed the House by a vote of 370 to 58. » More

Hill to Participate in Timely and Important Economic Hearing: Joint Economic Committee will hear from Federal Reserve Chairman Bernanke

September 23, 2008

As a member of the Joint Economic Committee (JEC), Congressman Baron Hill will participate in tomorrow's JEC hearing entitled, "The Economic Outlook." Members will hear testimony from the Honorable Ben Bernanke, Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, regarding the current financial crisis and the future of the nation’s economy. » More

Hill Supports Oil Speculator Legislation

September 19, 2008

Yesterday afternoon Congressman Baron Hill supported legislation that is aimed at curbing excessive energy speculation that is artificially driving up the price of gasoline. The Commodity Markets Transparency and Accountability Act of 2008, H.R. 6604, which contains provisions from Congressman Hill's legislation, H.R. 6372, the Commodity Futures Restoration Act, passed the House by a vote of 283 to 133. » More

Serving Constituents in Wake of Defeat: Hill did the job, Sodrel did not

September 10, 2008

Both Baron Hill and Mike Sodrel have found themselves in the same position: handing over the seat of Ninth District congressman to the other. However, the way the two men handled their respective situations could not be more different. » More

President Signs Toy Safety Bill into Law

August 18, 2008

Late last week, President Bush signed H.R. 4040, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008, into law, which includes protections against faulty toy imports and improves consumer recalls. As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection (CTCP), Congressman Baron Hill has been working diligently on this legislation to strengthen protections against dangerous toys since November 2007. Hill was an original cosponsor of the bill. His work in the Subcommittee led to the inclusion of a provision to improve all-terrain vehicle (ATV) safety. » More

College Opportunity and Affordability Act Signed into Law

August 15, 2008

Late yesterday afternoon, President Bush signed H.R. 4137, the College and Affordability Act of 2008, into law. Congressman Baron Hill supported this bill earlier this year in the House. H.R. 4137 is a comprehensive reauthorization of the Higher Education Act that addresses rising college costs and removes various barriers to college enrollment. » More

Hill Looking Forward to Fall Energy Vote

August 14, 2008

Congressman Baron Hill looks forward to a possible vote on a bill to allow offshore drilling. House leadership has indicated a willingness to allow the Members to debate and vote on a bill that would increase offshore drilling rights and ease consumer oil prices. » More

Hill Protects the Lost River System

August 4, 2008

The U.S. Forest Service has completed the boundary exchange that Congressman Baron Hill had requested on April 1, 2008. The exchange will allow the National Forest Service to purchase or accept donated land to the Hoosier National Forest for preservation and recreation in and around the Lost River. » More

House-Passed Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Bill Makes Historic Commitment to Our Veterans: Hill secures funding for MUTC

August 1, 2008

Congressman Baron Hill supported the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Bill, H.R. 6599, when it was overwhelmingly passed by the U.S. House of Representatives this morning. The legislation builds upon this Congress' commitment to making veteran issues one of its top priorities. In fact, the funding increase for veterans' care in this bill is 11 percent higher than last year's largest-ever increase in the 77-year history of the Veterans' Administration. Hill also successfully secured funding for the Muscatatuck Urban Training Center (MUTC) to expand its training capability in the bill. » More

House to Consider Oil Speculation Bill That Includes Provisions from Hill's Commodity Futures Restoration Act

July 30, 2008

The U.S. House of Representatives is scheduled to consider this afternoon H.R. 6604, the Commodity Markets Transparency and Accountability Act, which contains provisions from Congressman Baron Hill's legislation, H.R. 6372, the Commodity Futures Restoration Act. Both bills are aimed at curbing excessive energy speculation that is artificially driving up the price of gasoline. » More

Hill Supports Two Important Bills Honoring Veterans

July 30, 2008

Yesterday afternoon the U.S. House of Representatives passed, and Congressman Baron Hill supported, two bills reaffirming this Congress' commitment to addressing issues important to this nation's veterans. Both bills - H.R. 6445, the Veterans' Health Care Policy Enhancement Act of 2008 and H.R. 5892, the Veterans Disability Benefits Claims Modernization Act of 2008 – were passed unanimously. » More

House Passes Bills Aimed at Restoring Highway Trust Fund, Protecting Jobs and Strengthening Bridge Inspection Standards

July 29, 2008

Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed, and Congressman Baron Hill supported, two pieces of legislation aimed at restoring the Highway Trust Fund, protecting transportation and construction-related jobs, and strengthening bridge inspection standards and processes. H.R. 6532, the Highway Trust Fund Restoration Act, was passed on July 23, 2008 by a vote of 387-37. And H.R. 3999, the National Highway Bridge Reconstruction and Inspection Act of 2008, was passed on July 24, 2008 with a vote of 367-55. » More

Hill Releases Personal Tax Returns

June 8, 2008

Washington, D.C. - In an effort to run a more transparent campaign, Baron Hill has released his tax returns from 1999 through 2007. "During the last campaign I spoke frequently about the need to strengthen ethics reform, and I have acted upon that promise with my efforts in Washington," Hill said. "Releasing my tax returns is one way I can show people that I am serious about making this campaign more transparent." » More

Hill Cosponsors Servicemember Student Loan Interest Relief Act

April 28, 2008

Bill to be offered as an amendment today to the College Opportunity and Affordability Act

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Baron Hill has added his name as a cosponsor to H.R. 3748, the Servicemember Student Loan Interest Relief Act. The bill would prevent interest from accruing for active duty servicemembers and qualifying National Guard members for the duration of their activation up to 60 months when serving in a combat zone. The bill, authored by Representative Susan Davis (D-CA), will also be offered as an amendment today to H.R. 4137, the College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2007. » More

Hill reminds Sodrel about need for debate over gas prices

May 10, 2006

SEYMOUR – One week after challenging Congressman Mike Sodrel to an immediate debate over gas prices, Baron Hill has yet to hear back from Sodrel. On Primary Night, Hill demanded a debate in Southern Indiana on or before Friday, May 12, claiming Hoosiers deserve to hear the two candidates talk about the current gas crisis, America’s energy policy, and the immediate end to large tax breaks that Congress granted last year to big oil companies. » More

Hill receives League of Conservation Voters' endorsement

May 1, 2006

BLOOMINGTON – Baron Hill, running for Congress in Indiana’s 9th District, today received the official endorsement of the League of Conservation Voters. The endorsement is for both tomorrow’s primary and the fall general election, and reflects Hill’s long-standing commitment to championing environmental issues. » More

Proud to be an American: Long wait to become a citizen is over

2008-08-21

Swedish-born Karin Bernstein no longer has to wonder how it feels to be a U.S. citizen. The long journey toward citizenship ended Thursday when she and about 80 other Indiana residents took the oath at the federal courthouse in Indianapolis. A call to U.S. Rep. Baron Hill finally sped up the process, she said. » More

Representative helped woman with problem

2008-04-28

LETTER April 28, 2008 - 9:58AM

To the Editor:

I would also like to comment about Baron Hill. I have several times called on him to his office by phone or mail and he has always been a help to me. I would like to tell you about the last letter I wrote him.

I was in disagreement of the letter that we received from Medicare on the one subject of instead of receiving our monthly summary on what they paid out, the cost of the actual bill and the amount we would owe. This 30-day summary helped me with my budget and could known how to spend my money, as I am on a fixed income.

Then we get a notice that Social Security was going to a 90-day summary, to me it would be a hardship as I would not know just how much I would owe for a 90 period, as we don't know how many times we might have to go to the doctor get help in emergency, prescriptions, so I felt and still do disagree with this method. A few days later after I wrote Baron Hill about my thoughts, I received a call from Social Security. A man spoke to me about a complaint that I made to Baron Hill about the 90-day summary instead of the 30 days from Medicare, I said yes I did complain and I'm very glad that Baron Hill is doing his job. I went on to tell him what I have written above and added this will hurt people that are on low income with a family. The bills can add up and with children they will not know until it might build up and it's not fair.

He said he would pass on my feelings and he himself never thought about what I said I thought. I said why are they doing this after all these years. He said the government was spending too much money on paper. I rest my case. So don't tell me that Baron Hill is not doing his job. He sure is, he is the kind of representative that reads the bills Republicans or Democrats and states what is good for his district. I'm proud that he's a moderate that listens for the people and that's the kind we need today.

It's great that we have a choice. That's what America is all about. But, a lot of countries don't have that privilege.

Shirley Mackey

Seymour, Ind. » More

Congress Democrats pass important legislation

2008-04-23

Columbus Republic

LETTERS

Congress Democrats pass important legislation

From: Sherida Moore

North Vernon

Received: April 23

I would like to remind my esteemed colleague and respected local author that this Democrat(ic) Congress has passed some very important legislation:

1.They raised the minimum wage from $5.15 to $7.25. From 1997 (when $5.15 was passed) to 2006, the previous Republican Congress passed seven raises for themselves totaling $35,000. After Rep. Baron Hill, D-Ind., got back in office, he voted against this most recent raise.

2. Rep. John Boehner, ROhio, devastated the student loan program two years ago (Bill 1932), cutting back on the availability of college loans while increasing the interest rate.

What an education friendly administration. College tuition has gone up as much as 40 percent since Bush became president; this staggering combination is putting higher education out of reach for the middle class.

This Congress has passed an education bill lowering the interest rates by 2 and 3 percent and expanding the availability of loans. Moreover, at the behest of political friends to education (a bipartisan group), some Ivy League colleges are reaching into their endowment monies to help more kids afford schooling.

3. The SCHIP Healthcare bill to extend insurance to uninsured children was passed by Congress, vetoed by Bush, but we could not quite muster the extra votes to override the veto.

4. Congress also passed FISA legislation, again Bush vetoed, again we were short a few votes on the override. This security act has given more power to President Bush than any other president has had. President Washington declined this power grab knowing that it would lead to a weaker nation.

5. The Democrats and several green-minded Republicans fought for and passed improved fuel efficiency standards via a bill authored by Baron Hill.

6. This Congress made sure the stimulus package benefi ted everyone as fairly as possible (even if China did have to buy the bonds to fund it).

Yes, we do have a mess but at least now we are moving toward fair wages, education, and improving the environment. Maybe after November the country can move more quickly toward some balance in the economy, national security, energy programs and health care.

Thank you for your support of the Homefront Heroes Tax Relief Package

2008-04-16

The Honorable Baron Hill

United States Congressman

223 Cannon House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Dear Congressman Hill:

Thank you so very much for your support of the Homefront Heroes Tax Relief Package. I am so honored that you found my idea worth pursuing and that it has resulted in your introduction of this piece of legislation. And, I am especially honored and grateful that you mentioned me specifically as the inspiration for this legislation. That was very kind and generous of you.

Please do not hesitate to call on me if I can assist you in any way at all as you and your staff marshal this legislation through the approval process. I am truly at your service. Having personally seen the powerful impact of support from home on our deployed military heroes, I can't express my thanks enough.

Kind regards,

Catherine Dalton

David H. Jacobs Chair of Strategic Management,

Editor, Business Horizons, and

Research Director, Insitute for Corporate Governance » More

Man praises representative for his help

2008-04-14

Man praises representative for his help

LETTER

April 14, 2008 - 9:28AM

To the Editor:

In the past in People's Sayso, I have read that we don't have candidates who are worth voting for.

I would like to share what happened in my experience. About four years ago I found out that I have cancer. Off and on I have been very sick. I had to leave my job of 34 years and I just wasn't ready yet.

So I applied for Social Security disability. That process took several years, so I asked then-Rep. Mike Sodrel's office for help. I had to send in paperwork. A few months later I called in and asked if they heard anything yet. They told me no but they were working on it. I called a few other times and nothing. Later they lost my paperwork, so I had to start all over again.

All this time I never got anything from them.

Baron Hill got into office and I asked him for help. I was afraid that my insurance would run out. I was told my paperwork was gone, so I had to start over again.

As soon as Baron took over I got letters from Social Security stating that Hill's office had contacted them. They got me an early hearing with positive results.

I feel that Baron is there to help us the best he can do. I feel that if you have a problem he will be there. I want to thank Baron Hill and want to tell him if he wants to put a sign up in my yard, he is very welcome to do so.

I do think Baron does care about his people because of my true life story.

Kenneth W. Self

Seymour, Ind.

http://www.tribtown.com/opinion/baron_7435___article.html/help_hill.html