[Nfbnet-members-list] Legislative Update

[David Andrews]

Fellow Federationists:

I am writing to update you on the latest developments on Senator 
Portman's amendment 1742 to the Senate surface transportation bill, S. 1813.

Senator Portman's amendment would allow states to enter into 
commercial ventures at rest areas on federal highways and 
interstates, and would dramatically
impact Randolph-Sheppard vendors that are currently operating at 
those locations.

The Senate began debating on S. 1813 yesterday, but adjourned until 
next Tuesday, March 13, before Senator Portman's amendment could be 
considered.  We
must use this extra time to work to ensure that we get the votes to 
defeat Senator Portman's amendment next Tuesday.

Please continue to call your senators, and urge them to vote against 
Senator Portman's Amendment 1742.  You may be connected to your 
senator's offices by
calling the Capitol switchboard at (202) 224-3121.  I appreciate the 
work that we have done to this point, and I am asking you to see it 
through to the
finish next Tuesday.  Please contact me with any questions.

Jesse


Jesse Hartle
Government Programs Specialist
National Federation of the Blind
Phone:  (410) 659-9314, Ext. 2233
Email:  jhartle at nfb.org