Federal Student Aid

As students look toward the 2008-2009 college school year, they should be aware of all the federal tools and resources available to help them with college costs.  If you, or someone you know, needs federal financial aid, please have them look through the guide below. 

"Funding Education Beyond High School: The Guide to Federal Student Aid" contains information about federal grants, loans and work-study programs.  You can also visit "Student Aid on the Web" for other information related to federal funding for education beyond high school. 

Rep. Myrick is also working to help students and families plan for higher education by making sure that colleges and universities give every student a clear picture of the total cost of their degree.  For information on her efforts, please click here. 
 

Myrick Signs Onto Military Freedom Act

Rep. Myrick recently announced that she has cosponsored the Military Freedom Act (HR 5462). Congressman Louis Gohmert of Texas introduced this legislation in response to the City of Berkeley, California. They obstructed military recruiters from doing their duty, and labeled them “unwelcome intruders.” 

“The men and women in the military protect us and our freedoms. They did not deserve the unbelievably poor treatment they received in Berkeley. This legislation will makes towns like Berkeley think twice before they disrespect our military and their recruiters,” said Rep. Myrick.     

The Military Freedom Act would deny Federal funds for any state, city, county, or other political subdivision of a state that prohibits or restricts the establishment or operation of a military recruiting office. It covers all Federal funds, whether made available by appropriation, grant, award, contract, or any other means to a state or a political subdivision of a state.
 

2009 Federal Budget

The House Majority recently passed their 2009 federal budget.  Rep. Myrick voted against this budget because it demonstrates no fiscal discipline.  It contains the largest tax increase in history.  It cuts no wasteful government programs.  It increases spending by $74 Billion and does nothing to address entitlements. 

Click here to see more details about the Majority's 2009 Budget
 

Criminal Illegal Alien Detention Center

On March 8th, the Charlotte Observer ran a story about the future of the Federal Immigration Detention facility in Gaston County.  While the story was accurate, the headline made it appear that Gaston had decided not to build a detention center.  This is false, as talks between Gaston officials and ICE are moving forward.

The correction stated:  "A headline in Saturday's Local & State section implied that Gaston County would not build a detention center sought by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. County leaders said they would not build a 1,500-bed facility. But they said they might build a smaller jail to address local needs that could also be used for ICE detainees."   
 

Economic Stimulus Payment Calculator

Starting in May, the Treasury will begin sending economic stimulus payments to more than 130 million American households. If you would like to know if you qualify for this check, please click here for the IRS calculator.   

If you have questions about the stimulus checks, or if you have questions related to your 2007 taxes, you can get face-to-face help from the IRS at their local office in Charlotte.  Their hours are Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m., and they are located at: Five Resource Square, Suite 1-300, 10715 David Taylor Drive, Charlotte, NC 28262, (704) 548-4100.
 

Immigration Court Update

The Immigration Court opening has been pushed back to Fall 2008.  This is the second time the General Services Administration (GSA) has pushed back the opening date.  The first was last July when the opening was delayed due to the GSA's procurement process taking longer than originally anticipated.  The GSA delay is said to involve office space construction issues.   

"We have worked long and hard to bring an immigration court to our area, and I'm upset that the General Services Administration continues to delay its opening.  I wrote them a letter to express my frustrations and I hope that this letter will force them to look at our situation and speed up the opening.  Rest assured I will stay on top of this issue and will let the public know what we find out," said Rep. Myrick.