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Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
Digital Library Collections
This is a PDF of a folder from our textual collections.
Collection: Blackwell, Morton: Files
Folder Title: Balanced Budget Amendment
(1 of 3)
Box: 2
To see more digitized collections visit:
https://reaganlibrary.gov/archives/digital-library
To see all Ronald Reagan Presidential Library inventories visit:
https://reaganlibrary.gov/document-collection
Contact a reference archivist at: [email protected]
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WITHDRAWAL SHEET
Ronald Reagan Library
Collection Name BLACKWELL, MORTON: FILES
Withdrawer
RBW 2/28/2011
File Folder
BALANCED BUDGET AMENDMENT (1 OF 3)
FOIA
F06-0055/07
Box Number
OA 9075
POTTER, CLAIRE
2
DOC Doc Type
Document Description
No of
Doc Date Restrictions
NO
Pages
1
LIST
RE. ATTENDEES FOR WHITE HOUSE
2
ND
B6
BRIEFING ON 7/19/82
Freedom of Information Act . [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
B-1 National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
B-2 Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
B-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
B-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
B-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
B-7 Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
B-8 Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
B-9 Release would disclose geological or geophysical information concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of gift.
file
THE WHITE HOUSE
Tax
WASHINGTON
4/29/82
TO: Dick Darman
FROM: Ken Duberstein
As we discussed, you may want to
circulate this background fact sheet/
status report on the Balanced Budget
Constitutional Amendment to our
legislative strategy group (expanded)
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 28, 1982
BALANCED BUDGET CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT
S.J. Res 58 now has 53 co-sponsors (39 Republicans and 14
Democrats). The principal sponsors are Thurmond and Hatch.
H.J. Res 350, as of Wednesday, April 28, has 201 co-sponsors
(147 Republicans and 54 Democrats). The principal sponsors
are Conable (R-NY) and Jenkins (D-GA).
S.J. Res 58 and H.J. Res 350 are identical.
To pass, 2/3 of those present in the Senate and House must
vote "aye."
32 states have endorsed a call for a Constitutional Convention.
34 are required for a Convention. 38 states required to ratify
under this approach, which is the same ratification process
required under the legislative approach.
Since 1960, there has been only one balanced budget.
What S.J. Res 58 and H. J. Res 350 do:
SECTION 1: Prior to the beginning of each fiscal year, Congress
must adopt a statement of income (receipts or taxes)
and expenses (outlays) for the upcoming fiscal year
which provides that income cannot exceed expenses.
The Congress and the President are charged with ensuring
this is adhered to. If the Congress wants to amend
this during the year, both the Senate and House must
concur and 3/5 of the whole number must support such
a waiver. 261 hard votes in the House and 61 hard
votes in the Senate.
SECTION 2: Provides that taxes cannot increase any faster than
national income. In other words, the budget can't be
balanced simply by raising taxes disproportionately.
This can be amended by Congress if a simple majority of
the whole number of both the Senate and House (218
Hard votes in the House and 51 hard votes in the
Senate).
SECTION. 3: Provides that Congress may waive the budget balancing
provisions for any fiscal year in which a declaration
of war is in effect.
SECTION 4: Provides that Congress may not require that the
states engage in additional activities without compen-
sation equal to the additional costs. In other words,
the states are protected from the Feds shifting
expensive programs to them without providing
financing to support such programs.
SECTION 5: Total receipts shall include all receipts of the
United States except those derived from borrowing
and total outlays shall include all outlays of the
United States except those for repayment of debt
principal.
SECTION 6: This article shall take effect for the second
fiscal year beginning after its ratification.
On May 19, 1981, the Senate Judiciary Committee reported
S.J. Res. 58 favorably 11-5. It is now ready for Senate
Floor debate.
In the House, Chairman Rodino of the House Judiciary Committee,
is purposely delaying committee action.
Date: 5/6/82
TO:
Morton Blackwell
FROM: WAYNE H. VALIS
For your information
Per our conversation
Other:
Some of the business folks are
"on board."
ince. hoge balw
copy:
R.
Cavaney
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WHOLESALER-DISTRIBUTORS
1725 K Street, N.W.
naw
Washington, D.C. 20006
the national voice of wholesale distribution
202/872-0885
Dirk Van Dongen
President
May 4, 1982
Mr. Lewis Uhler
President
National Tax-Limitation
file for: no Monton valir the blockwell
Committee
1523 L Street, N.W.
Suite 600
bosiver soe folls
Washington, D.C. 20036
Dear Lew:
are wv board"
On behalf of the 121 national wholesaler-distributor trade associations (see attached)
and 45,000 members of NAW, I want to convey our Board's recent endorsement of the
balanced budget-tax limitation amendment (S.J. Res. 58/H.J. Res. 350).
While we do not view its passage by the Congress or its ratification by the states as
a short term solution to our current deficit problems, we believe its long term
benefit will be substantial.
By way of background, in 1981 the wholesale distribution sector of the economy was
responsible for over 1.2 trillion of economic activity, employing 5.4 million people
at 307,000 plus locations across the country.
NAW has been, and remains, a strong advocate of President Reagan's economic recovery
program. We believe that unabated and excessive Federal spending is one of the root
causes of our present economic malaise.
We look forward to working closely with the NTLC over the coming months in advancing
this important legislation.
You are to be commended for the excellent work you have already done in this regard.
I look forward to making your acquaintance.
Sincerely,
DvD
Dirk Van Dongen
President
CC: William Tobin
Charls Walker
Attachment
William M. Burckart
T.E. Addison, Jr.
Kenneth Adler
Vincent A. Fochtman
W. Scott Smith, Jr.
Dan W. Ruple
Past Chairman
Chairman of the Board
Chairman Elect
First Vice Chairman
Second Vice Chairman
Secretary
Buffalo, New York
Atlanta, Georgia
Detroit, Michigan
Traverse City, Michigan
Chester. Pennsylvania
Carson. California
National Wholesaler-Distributor Organizations
Affiliated with the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors
Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Wholesalers
National Association of Plastics Distributors
American Dental Trade Association
National Association of Recording Merchandisers, Inc.
American Jewelry Distributors Association
National Association of Service Merchandising
American Machine Tool Distributors' Association
National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers
American Supply Association
National Association of Textile & Apparel Distributors
American Surgical Trade Association
National Association of Tobacco Distributors
American Traffic Services Association
National Association of Writing Instrument Distributors
American Veterinary Distributors Association
National Beer Wholesalers Association
Appliance Parts Distributors Association, Inc.
National Building Material Distributors Association
Associated Equipment Distributors
National Business Forms Association
Association of Footwear Distributors
National Candy Wholesalers Association
Association of Steel Distributors
National Commercial Refrigeration Sales Association
Automotive Service Industry Association
National Electronic Distributors Association
Aviation Distributors & Manufacturers Association
National Fastener Distributors Association
National Food Distributors Association
Bearing Specialists Association
National Frozen Food Association
Beauty & Barber Supply Institute, Inc.
Bicycle Wholesale Distributors Association, Inc.
National Independent Bank Equipment Suppliers Assn.
Biscuit & Cracker Distributors Association
National Industrial Belting Association
National Industrial Glove Distributors Association
Ceramic Tile Distributors Association
National Lawn & Garden Distributors Association
Ceramics Distributors of America
National Locksmiths' Suppliers Association
Coated Abrasives Fabricators Association
National Marine Distributors Association
Cooperative Food Distributors of America
National Paint Distributors, Inc.
Copper & Brass Servicenter Association
National Paper Trade Association, Inc.
Council for Periodical Distributors Association
National Plastercraft Association
Council of Wholesale-Distributors
National Sash & Door Jobbers Association
American Institute of Kitchen Dealers
National School Supply & Equipment Association
Distributors Council, Inc.
National Solid Wastes Management Association
Door & Hardware Institute
National & Southern Industrial Distributors Associations
Drug Wholesalers Association
National Spa and Pool Institute
National Truck Equipment Association
Electrical-Electronics Materials Distributors Assn.
National Welding Supply Association
Explosive Distributors Association, Inc.
National Wheel & Rim Association
Farm Equipment Wholesalers Association
National Wholesale Druggists' Association
Flat Glass Marketing Association
National Wholesale Furniture Association
Fluid Power Distributors Association, Inc.
National Wholesale Hardware Association
Food Industries Suppliers Association
Northamencan Heating & Airconditioning Wholesalers
Foodservice Equipment Distributors Association
North American Wholesale Lumber Association, Inc.
General Merchandise Distributors Council
Optical Laboratories Association
Outdoor Power Equipment Distributors Association
Hobby Industry Association of America
Pet Industry Distributors Association
Independent Medical Distributors Association
Petroleum Equipment Institute
The Irrigation Association
Power Transmission Distributors Association, Inc.
Institutional & Service Textile Distributors
Association, Inc.
Safety Equipment Distributors Association, Inc.
International Ceramic Association
Scaffold Industry Association
Shoe Service Institute of America
Machinery Dealers National Association
Specialty Tools & Fasteners Distributors Association
Mass Merchandising Distributors Association
Spring Service Association
Material Handling Equipment Distribution Association
Steel Service Center Institute
Monument Builders of North America-Wholesale Div.
Motorcycle Industry Council
Textile Care Allied Trades Association
Music Distributors Association
Toy Wholesalers' Association of America
National-American Wholesale Grocers' Association
United Pesticide Formulators & Distributors Association
National Appliance Parts Suppliers Association
Wallcovering Distributors Association
National Association of Aluminum Distributors
Warehouse Distributors Association for
National Association of Chemical Distributors
Leisure & Mobile Products
National Association of Container Distributors
Watch Materials & Jewelry Distributors Association
National Association of Decorative Fabric Distributors
Water and Sewer Distributors Association
National Association of Electrical Distributors
Wholesale Florists & Florist Suppliers of America
National Association of Fire Equipment Distributors
Wholesale Stationers' Association, Inc.
National Association of Floor Covering Distributors
Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America, Inc.
National Association of Manufacturing Opticians
Wood Heating Alliance
National Association of Marine Services, Inc.
Woodworking Machinery Distributors Association
National Association of Meat Purveyors
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WHOLESALER-DISTRIBUTORS
1725 K Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006 202/872-0885
Inside
THIS WEEK'S NEWS FROM
Washington
Reagan Boost Aids
Tax-Limit Amendment
hood of Washington, D.C., inspired something
called "National Condom Week," an activity ac-
The President's strong endorsement of the
tually celebrated by the local D.C. government and
Balanced Budget-Tax Limitation Amendment in
endorsed by Mayor Marion Barry. The Planned
last week's televised address to the nation is
Parenthood group, which received over half-a-
expected to give the amendment a big shot in the
million dollars in Title X funds in the last 14
arm just as it nears a vote in the Senate. William
H. Shaker, executive vice president of the Na-
tional Tax Limitation Committee, told HUMAN
An invitation Is...
EVENTS:
"We're really tickled pink that President Rea-
THE 1th ANNUAL
gan has endorsed the amendment. His support will
really be helpful as we proceed to a vote in the
Senate." As previously reported, the amendment
RUDDER Fab 19. 1982 DISCO
(SJ Res. 58, HJ Res. 350) has already been ap-
6 10 pm
proved by the Senate Judiciary Committee and
could reach the Senate floor at any time.
The Beral
1148 Connecticut Ave. NW
The proposed addition to the Constitution,
which enjoys the enthusiastic support of Nobel
The Men's Center
admission free with a condom
Prize-winning economist Milton Friedman, has
Planned Parenthood
dress: informal
two key provisions. One requires that "total out-
lays"-significantly including so-called "off
budget" items-may not exceed "total receipts."
The D.C. chapter of the Planned Parenthood orga-
In emergencies, Congress could make exceptions
nization, which is financed with federal funds, pro-
to this rule. But this would require a three-fifths
vided a perfect example of flagrantly wasted tax
dollars when It staged a "Rubber Disco."
vote "of the whole number of both houses" in
favor of a measure providing for "a specific ex-
months, admitted through its financial director,
cess of outlays over receipts," and-to assure
Edith Ledbetter, that the condom celebration had
accountability-the measure would have to be
been promoted with federal dollars.
"directed solely to that subject."
To get the week (February 14-21) off to a rous-
The second major provision states that the gov-
ing (or perhaps arousing) start, the local Planned
ernment's "total receipts" for any fiscal year may
Parenthood group sent out a promotional letter,
not increase from year to year by more than the
signed by Paula Wilborne, which read in part:
growth of national income, "unless a majority of
"Included among the celebration of National
the whole number of both houses of Congress
Condom Week are: A symposium on Male Sex-
shall have passed a bill directed solely to approv-
uality, a talk on Male Contraception, and last but
ing specific additional receipts and such bill has
not least, an evening of enjoyment and educational
become law."
exchange called
RUBBER DISCO!!!!! - Yes,
The amendment would become effective in the
it is the 4th annual RUBBER DISCO. Admission is
second full fiscal year after it was ratified by the
free with a condom and an invitation which can be
necessary three-fourths of the states.
picked up at the Men's Center of Planned Parent-
hood (located at 1108 16th Street, N.W.-that is,
16th and L). This fabulous dance will be held at
The Beret Discotech, decorated with a rainbow of
different colored, blown up condoms. The height
Another Spending Scandal
of festivities will culminate with a condom blowing
contest, the winner of which is to receive a prize of
Is There No More
$35.00."
Secretary of Health and Human Services
Fat in the Budget?
Richard Schweiker called this project "tasteless"
and a "flagrant example of irresponsibility and
Has the budget been "cut to the bone," as the
bad judgment at any time, but especially in these
liberals are so fond of saying these days? Judie
times of budget restraint." Representatives Robert
Brown, president of American Life lobby, insisted
Walker (R.-Pa.) and John Rousselot (R.-Calif.)
to a House subcommittee on appropriations last
were appalled, and roundly condemned the misuse
week that all sorts of money is being wasted on
of taxpayers' money. Walker kept referring to the
Title X of the federally funded Public Health Ser-
occasion as "unbelievable." "This is yours and my
vice Act. This program, she pointed out, referring
federal tax dollars that are being used on this kind
to a study by the General Accounting Office, "is
of enterprise," he moaned.
riddled with waste and abuse."
Most people would find that hard to disagree
Typical of hundreds of federal programs on the
with. But Speaker Tip O'Neill and his Democratic
books, this measure will cost $123 million in Fiscal
colleagues, in breaking off the budget negotiations
Year 1983, but the GAO claims that at least $48
with the President last week, keep suggesting that
million is foolishly spent on a yearly basis.
cutting such spending amounts to a cruel blow to
Consider, for instance, that Planned Parent-
the underprivileged.
MAY 8, 1982 / Human Events / 3
379
PLANNED PARENTHOOD'OF METROPOLITAN WASHINGTON, D.C., INC.
1108 SIXTEENTH STREET, N.W. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20036 202-347-8500
Dear Friend,
Thank you for taking the time to express your support for our
ad in the Washington Post. As you know, the Senate Judiciary
committee just passed the Hatch Amendment by a vote of 10 to 7.
This Amendment (S.J. 110) reads:
"A right to abortion is not secured by this Constitution.
The Congress and several States shall have the concurrent
power to restrict and prohibit abortion: provided, that
a law of a State which is more restrictive than a law of
Congress shall govern."
Now that it has passed the Judiciary Committee, this anti-choice
legislation may reach the Senate floor in the very near future.
WHAT YOU CAN DO:
First and foremost, you can express your views to our elected
representatives.
Members of the Judiciary Committee who voted pro-choice should
receive personal thank-you notes. The pro-choice votes on the
Judiciary Committee were:
Mathias, MD
Kennedy, MA
Specter, PA
Leahy, VT
Baucus, MT
Metzenbaum, OH
Byrd, WV
Write: Senator
, United States Senate, Washington, DC 20510
Residents of Virginia and Maryland should also write their
Senators and urge them to vote against the Hatch Amendment and
all other anti-choice legislation.
Maryland Residents
Virginia Residents
Write:
Write:
Charles McC. Mathias, Jr.
Harry Byrd, Jr.
358 Russell Building
417 Russell Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Washington, D.C. 20510
Paul Sarbanes
John Warner
2327 Dirksen Building
6239 Dirksen Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Washington, D.C. 20510
Finally, the Planned Parenthood Metropolitan Washington
Public Affairs Program welcomes volunteers who want to work
with us on this issue. If you can donate some time, please
call us at 347-8500, or send in the attached coupon and we will
contact you.
Thanks again for your support!
Sincerely,
Amy Fine
Amy Fine
Public Affairs Director
Please contact me, I would like to volunteer with your Public
Affairs Program.
Name
Phone: Day
, Eve.-
,
Address
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 18, 1982
MEMORANDUM TO WAYNE VALIS
FROM:
ROBERT MOSS
pay
RE:
Support for the Balanced Budget Amendment
Attached is a letter from Bill Tobin of the National Tax-
Limitation Committee with trade association support for
S.J. Res. 58/H.J. Res. 350.
Following is a list of specific organizations with respect to
your request on their position regarding the balanced budget:
National Association of
Manufacturers
Support the amendment with the
reasoning that it will limit federal
spending.
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Have not formulated a position on
the Balanced Budget Amendment.
The Business Roundtable
Have not formulated a position on
the Balanced Budget Amendment.
National Federation of
Independent Business
Support the Balanced Budget Amendment
and will work on behalf of its passage.
Westinghouse Electric Corp.
Will support the White House position
on the Balanced Budget Amendment.
Mobil Corp.
Supports the Balanced Budget Amendment.
U.S. Steel Corp.
Have not taken a position on the Res.
They will await a budget compromise
and will support The White House
position on the BBA.
National Association of
Wholesaler-Distributors
Strongly in support of the BBA.
the
national
taxlimitation
P.O. Box 513
X
1523 L Street, N.W., Suite 600
committe
Loomis, CA 95650
Washington, D.C. 20005
(916) 652-0471
(202) 393-2060
MEMORANDUM
OFFICERS
Lewis K. Uhler, President
(Attorney, businessman, consultant)
TO:
Bob Moss
William H. Shaker, Executive Vice President
Washington Office)
FROM:
Bill Tobin
B.T.
William J. Tobin, Vice President
(NTLC-Washington Office)
David Copeland, Vice President
DATE: May 18, 1982
(Tennessee State Representative)
Donald L. Totten, Vice President
(Illinois State Senator)
Attached is a list of national trade associations
Jameson G.Campaigne, Jr., Treasurer
(Publisher, consultant)
that have formally endorsed the Tax Limitation/Bal-
FOUNDERS & SPONSORS
anced Budget Constitutional Amendment (S.J.Res.58/
H.J.Res.350).
C. Austin Barker
(Financial Consultant
Noyes Partners, Inc.)
The National Tax Limitation Committee is finan-
George Champion
cially supported by approximately 25,000 corporations
(former Chairman, Chase
Manhattan Bank)
and companies, who presumably agree with our major
M. Stanton Evans
thrust to amend the constitution in order to limit
(Author, columnist, Broadcaster)
the growth of taxes and spending and plan a balanced
Milton Friedman
budget. I've enclosed a sheet giving examples of
(Author, Economist, Nobel laureate)
such corporations.
Arthur Godfrey
(Entertainer, commentator)
Among corporation contributors who are to my
Allan Grant
(former President, American Farm
knowledge most active are: Flowers Industries,
Bureau Federation)
Blue Bell and the Reserve Fund. They have contacted
James M. Hall
(former Secretary, California
their employees/investors and have asked them to
Human Relations Agency)
contact their Senators and Representatives.
Clare Boothe Luce
(Author, columnist, former
U.S. Ambassador, congresswoman)
In addition to corporate support, NTLC has 600,000
individual members nationwide.
Vern 1. McCarthy, Jr.
(Director, Bank of Bellwood)
Frank Shakespeare
Please call me if you need additional information.
(former Director, United States
Information Agency: President RKO)
William Craig Stubblebine
(Professor of Economics,
Claremont College)
General A.C. Wedemeyer
(U.S. Army, Retired)
FOUNDERS & SPONSORS
Currently in Government Service
Robert Carleson
William A. Niskanen
Association Support of the Tax Limitation - Balanced Budget Amendment
American Bakers Association
American Council for Capital Formation
American Farm Bureau Federation
American Gear Manufacturers Association
Associated Builders and Contractors
National Association of Homebuilders
National Association of Manufacturers
National Association of Realtors
National Association of Wholesaler - Distributors
National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association
National Cattlemen's Association
(National Screw Products Association)
National Federation of Independent Business
National Welding Supply Association
United States Jaycees
Illinois Manufacturers Association
Michigan Chamber of Commerce
Associated Industries of Kentucky
Savings League of Wisconsin
Oklahoma Bankers Association
Virginia Agribusiness Council
Texas Bankers Association
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
William Tobin
the
202-393-2060
national
taxlimitation
P.O. Box 513
X
1523 L Street, N.W., Suite 600
committee
Loomis, CA 95650
Washington, D.C. 20005
(916) 652-0471
(202) 393-2060
BIPARTISAN SUPPORT GROWS FOR TAX LIMITATION/BALANCED
BUDGET AMENDMENT -- SENATOR CANNON SIGNS ON AS
COSPONSOR -- PRESIDENTIAL ENDORSEMENT WELCOMED
OFFICERS
Washington, D.C., May 14, 1982 -- Senator Howard
Lewis K. Uhier, President
(Attorney, businessman, consultant)
Cannon (D-NV) is the latest member to announce support
William H. Shaker, Executive Vice President
(NTLC- Washington Office)
William J. Tobin, Vice President
for Res. 58, the Tax Limitation Balanced Budget
(NTLC-Washington Office)
David Copeland, Vice President
Amendment pending before the U.S. Senate. His sponsor-
(Tennessee State Representative)
Donald L. Totten, Vice President
(Illinois State Senator)
ship brings the official number of Senate cosponsors to
Jameson G.Campaigne, Jr., Treasurer
(Publisher, consultant)
57. A number of additional Senators have indicated
FOUNDERS & SPONSORS
C. Austin Barker
that they plan to vote for the Amendment.
(Financial Consultant
Noyes Partners, Inc.)
President Reagan reiterated his support for the
George Champion
(former Chairman, Chase
Manhattan Bank)
Amendment in a speech to the Nation May lst. Public
M. Stanton Evans
(Author, columnist, Broadcaster)
response has been running more than seven to one in
Milton Friedman
(Author, Economist, Nobel laureate)
favor of the Amendment.
Arthur Godfrey
(Entertainer, commentator)
Allan Grant
Lewis K. Uhler, President of the 600,000 member
(former President, American Farm
Bureau Federation)
National Tax Limitation Committee, praised the action
James M. Hall
(former Secretary, California
Human Relations Agency)
by Senator Cannon saying: "That such a distinguished
Clare Boothe Luce
(Author, columnist, former
U.S. Ambassador, congresswoman)
member of the Senate should endorse the Amendment at
Vern I. McCarthy, Jr.
(Director, Bank of Bellwood)
this time demonstrates that Senate support is steadily
Frank Shakespeare
(former Director, United States
Information Agency: President RKO)
mounting. " A Senate vote expected in early June will
William Craig Stubblebine
(Professor of Economics,
Claremont College)
require 67 votes for passage.
General A. C. Wedemeyer
(U.S. Army, Retired)
Along with Cannon, other members who have signed
FOUNDERS & SPONSORS
Currently in Government Service
on as cosponsors in a bipartisan show of support since
Robert Carleson
the Amendment was favorably passed by the Senate Judiciary
William A. Niskanen
(More)
- 2 -
Committee are: Senators Lloyd Bentsen (D-TX), Quentin Burdick (D-ND),
Walter Huddleston (D-KY), John Melcher (D-MT) Sam Nunn (D-GA),
William Roth (R-DE), Jim Sasser (D-TN), John Tower (R-TX) and
Nicholas Brady (R-NJ).
Bipartisan support is also building in the House of Repre-
sentatives, where the Amendment enjoys the cosponsorship of more
than 200 Congressmen. The House drive is led by Representative
Ed Jenkins (D-GA) and Barber Conable (R-NY). Among the House co-
sponsors are Robert Michel (R-IL), Minority Leader, and Tony
Coelho (D-CA), Chairman of the Democratic Campaign Committee.
William H. Shaker, NTLC Executive Vice President reported
that a number of other Senators, including Senator Lawton Chiles (D-FL)
and Senator Charles Percy (R-IL), are closely studying the Amend-
ment. Shaker said: "It now appears, based on constituent mail
from Senators which has been shared with us by NTLC members, that
the Amendment has sufficient support for passage."
Regarding the President's endorsement, Uhler said: "NTLC
welcomes the radio address by President Reagan on May 1 in which
the President urged the grassroots to start putting pressure on
Congress now to pass the Tax Limitation/Balanced Budget Amendment. "
"We agree with the President," said Uhler, "that government
must stay within the limits of its revenues. The sorry fiscal
record of the last 25 years is convincing evidence that Congress
and the Executive need the external restraint of a constitutional
amendment to balance the budget and limit taxes."
(More)
- 3 -
Both President Reagan and Vice President Bush supported
this type of amendment during their respective Presidential
Campaigns during 1980. Reagan first proposed such an amendment
in 1973 as an amendment to the California constitution.
If passed by the Congress this year and ratified by the
states in the amount of time normally taken for such ratifica-
tion, the Amendment would first go into effect in fiscal year
1986. This is the year that both the President and Congressional
leaders have set for achievement of a balanced budget -- which
would be the first balanced federal budget since 1969. Uhler
said, "Passage of the Amendment will put teeth in this goal and
make Congressional and Presidential commitment to fiscal respon-
sibility permanent."
The National Tax Limitation Committee played a principal
role in formation of the Amendment's language and in introducing
the Amendment in the Congress, as well as, spearheading the grass-
roots campaign on the issue for the past seven year.
#
#
#
bec Wayne Valis
R.Cavaney
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WHOLESALER-DISTRIBUTORS
1725 K Street, N.W.
naw
Washington, D.C. 20006
the national voice of wholesale distribution
202/872-0885
Dirk Van Dongen
President
May 4, 1982
Mr. Lewis Uhler
President
National Tax-Limitation
for: no Maton Valis the Blackwell
Committee
1523 L Street, N.W.
Suite 600
file
bosiver so of folls
Washington, D.C. 20036
are wv Good"
Dear Lew:
On behalf of the 121 national wholesaler-distributor trade associations (see attached)
and 45,000 members of NAW, I want to convey our Board's recent endorsement of the
balanced budget-tax limitation amendment (S.J. Res. 58/H.J. Res. 350).
While we do not view its passage by the Congress or its ratification by the states as
a short term solution to our current deficit problems, we believe its long term
benefit will be substantial.
By way of background, in 1981 the wholesale distribution sector of the economy was
responsible for over 1.2 trillion of economic activity, employing 5.4 million people
at 307,000 plus locations across the country.
NAW has been, and remains, a strong advocate of President Reagan's economic recovery
program. We believe that unabated and excessive Federal spending is one of the root
causes of our present economic malaise.
We look forward to working closely with the NTLC over the coming months in advancing
this important legislation.
You are to be commended for the excellent work you have already done in this regard.
I look forward to making your acquaintance.
Sincerely,
DvD
Dirk Van Dongen
President
CC: William Tobin
Charls Walker
Attachment
William M. Burckart
T.E. Addison, Jr.
Kenneth Adler
Vincent A. Fochtman
W. Scott Smith, Jr.
Dan W. Ruple
Past Chairman
Chairman of the Board
Chairman Elect
First Vice Chairman
Second Vice Chairman
Secretary
Buffalo, New York
Atlanta, Georgia
Detroit, Michigan
Traverse City, Michigan
Chester. Pennsylvania
Carson. California
National Wholesaler-Distributor Organizations
Affiliated with the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors
Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Wholesalers
National Association of Plastics Distributors
American Dental Trade Association
National Association of Recording Merchandisers, Inc.
American Jewelry Distributors Association
National Association of Service Merchandising
American Machine Tool Distributors' Association
National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers
American Supply Association
National Association of Textile & Apparel Distributors
American Surgical Trade Association
National Association of Tobacco Distributors
American Traffic Services Association
National Association of Writing Instrument Distributors
American Veterinary Distributors Association
National Beer Wholesalers Association
Appliance Parts Distributors Association, Inc.
National Building Material Distributors Association
Associated Equipment Distributors
National Business Forms Association
Association of Footwear Distributors
National Candy Wholesalers Association
Association of Steel Distributors
National Commercial Refrigeration Sales Association
Automotive Service Industry Association
National Electronic Distributors Association
Aviation Distributors & Manufacturers Association
National Fastener Distributors Association
National Food Distributors Association
Bearing Specialists Association
National Frozen Food Association
Beauty & Barber Supply Institute, Inc.
National Independent Bank Equipment Suppliers Assn.
Bicycle Wholesale Distributors Association, Inc.
Biscuit & Cracker Distributors Association
National Industrial Belting Association
National Industrial Glove Distributors Association
Ceramic Tile Distributors Association
National Lawn & Garden Distributors Association
Ceramics Distributors of America
National Locksmiths' Suppliers Association
Coated Abrasives Fabricators Association
National Marine Distributors Association
Cooperative Food Distributors of America
National Paint Distributors, Inc.
Copper & Brass Servicenter Association
National Paper Trade Association, Inc.
Council for Periodical Distributors Association
National Plastercraft Association
Council of Wholesale-Distributors
National Sash & Door Jobbers Association
American Institute of Kitchen Dealers
National School Supply & Equipment Association
Distributors Council, Inc.
National Solid Wastes Management Association
Door & Hardware Institute
National & Southern Industrial Distributors Associations
Drug Wholesalers Association
National Spa and Pool Institute
National Truck Equipment Association
Electrical-Electronics Materials Distributors Assn.
National Welding Supply Association
Explosive Distributors Association, Inc.
National Wheel & Rim Association
Farm Equipment Wholesalers Association
National Wholesale Druggists' Association
Flat Glass Marketing Association
National Wholesale Furniture Association
Fluid Power Distributors Association, Inc.
National Wholesale Hardware Association
Food Industries Suppliers Association
Northamerican Heating & Airconditioning Wholesalers
Foodservice Equipment Distributors Association
North American Wholesale Lumber Association, Inc.
General Merchandise Distributors Council
Optical Laboratories Association
Outdoor Power Equipment Distributors Association
Hobby Industry Association of America
Pet Industry Distributors Association
Independent Medical Distributors Association
Petroleum Equipment Institute
The Irrigation Association
Power Transmission Distributors Association, Inc.
Institutional & Service Textile Distributors
Association, Inc.
Safety Equipment Distributors Association, Inc.
International Ceramic Association
Scaffold Industry Association
Shoe Service Institute of America
Machinery Dealers National Association
Specialty Tools & Fasteners Distributors Association
Mass Merchandising Distributors Association
Spring Service Association
Material Handling Equipment Distribution Association
Steel Service Center Institute
Monument Builders of North America-Wholesale Div.
Textile Care Allied Trades Association
Motorcycle Industry Council
Music Distributors Association
Toy Wholesalers' Association of America
National-American Wholesale Grocers' Association
United Pesticide Formulators & Distributors Association
National Appliance Parts Suppliers Association
Wallcovering Distributors Association
National Association of Aluminum Distributors
Warehouse Distributors Association for
National Association of Chemical Distributors
Leisure & Mobile Products
National Association of Container Distributors
Watch Materials & Jewelry Distributors Association
National Association of Decorative Fabric Distributors
Water and Sewer Distributors Association
National Association of Electrical Distributors
Wholesale Florists & Florist Suppliers of America
National Association of Fire Equipment Distributors
Whichesdie Stationers' Association, Inc.
National Association of Floor Covering Distributors
Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America, Inc.
National Association of Manufacturing Opticians
Wood Heating Alliance
National Association of Marine Services, Inc.
Woodworking Machinery Distributors Association
National Association of Meat Purveyors
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WHOLESALER-DISTRIBUTORS
1725 K Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006 202/872-0885
Dairy and Food Industries
for Morton
Supply Association, Inc.
Blockwell
6245 EXECUTIVE BOULEVARD, ROCKVILLE, MARYLAND 20852
(301) 984-1444, Telex: 908706
Fred J. Greiner
Executive Vice President
7 May 1982
five
The President
The White House
Washington, D.C.
Dear Mr. President
As the chief executive officer of this Association we want your
office to be aware that this Association has gone on record as
supporting the Constitutional Amendment re balanced Federal budget
The action supporting this movement was taken by our Board of Directors
at our annual meeting on April 21, 1982.
We are very pleased at your announcement of support made in your
telecast last week and we want you to know how much we appreciate
your effort toward achieving fiscal responsibility in the United
States budget making process.
Cordially
Jane Fred J. Greiner
Executive Vice President
bcc - Wayne H. Valis
Wayne:
Fn you
Junel
READING SERVICE
126 S. Putman, Williamston, Mich. 48895
HILLSDALE, MI
DAILY NEWS
E-8,780
MAY-1 -82
Huber Senate bid based on experience
By Paul Manning Krawzak
& Chemical Co, in Detroit, which he
think he's made the right moves
would take for economic recovery if
militarily than any other nation,
said sells its products in international
both internationally as well as
he became a senator, Huber said, "It
said, since peace is not possible ur
Robert J. Huber believes, for two
as well as U.S. markets. He is also
nationally, he said.
isn't a question of specific things. It's
the "strongest army, navy, air foi
reasons, that he is more qualified
chairman of the board of a plastics
He would, however, place more
an attitude, an approach to
is in the hands of the most peace
han those opposing him in the race
corporation in Arkansas, director of
emphasis than Ronald Reagan has on
problems,
nation."
0 replace U.S.
Michigan National Bank in Troy, and
balancing the budget.
"If my. votes had been followed
For two reasons he supports 1
en. Donald
director of a Detroit firm. He is
For this, he favors a tax on im-
(when he was in Congress) we would
president's proposed arms buildt
tiegle.
somebody who understands in-
ported oil, which would raise'
have had a balanced budget," he
First, he is in favor of the program
"I've served
dustry and the problems of in-
gasoline prices somewhat and
said.
he said. Second, he said, "I da
a every level of
dustry," he said.
provide the government with $30 to
"Live within the means now
really believe there is anybody in t
overnment,
Riegle's term expires at the end of
$40 billion it could use to cut the
that's the philosophy one has to have
U.S., including the secretary
he 59-year-old
this year. Opposing Huber on the
federal deficit "It would reduce
and Don Riegle doesn't have it," he
defense, who understands the tol
tepublican said
Republican side are former
consumption of gas that would
said. "We've had the Riegles running
picture of our total problems exce
'riday during a
Michigan Congressman Philip
help our energy crunch," he said. By
the railroads for the last 20 years and
the president."
top in Hillsdale.
Ruppe, William Ballenger and
cutting the federal deficit, it would
that's what's brought us to ruin."
"I THINK THE president mu
luber served as
University of Michigan Regent Dean
promote reduced interest rates, and
HE SAID THAT if an imported oil
explain his position to the people
nayor of Troy
Baker.
it would also improve the nation's
tax is implemented, there will be an
the U.S. and I think he's done that
or six years, on
Economic recovery is the main
balance of trade, since the U.S. would
upturn in the industrial base due to
he said.
he Oakland
issue facing the Senate, he said, and
import less, he said.
lower interest rates, an increase in
Given equal military forces by tl
County Board of
Robert
his approach to it would stress
"I THINK IT'S essential to have a
employment, and a resulting cut in
U.S. and Soviet Union, there is tl
upervisors for
Huber
creating "an attractive business
balanced budget," he said. But
the deficit, since more tax revenue
temptation on the part of the Sovie
our years, as state senator for six
environment in, which the free en-
Huber is not comfortable with a
will flow in to the government and
to "aggressively attempt to utili:
ears, and as a U.S. representative
terprise system can flourish."
constitutional amendment requiring
less welfare benefits will flow out.
what force they have to overpower
or two years. "Nobody in this race
"I THINK THE president's
one (which Reagan has proposed),
"I think we've bottomed out in the
intimidate," he said. "And the on
as that," he said.
program is a very good, com-
Congress passed a law two years ago
economy," he said. "The recovery's
way to stop that is to show them thi
MOREOVER, HUBER has spent
prehensive program," he said. "The
requiring a balanced budget by 1981,
not going to be rapid but it's going to
they would bite off more than the
7 years in industry. Since 1952 he has
control of the inflation was a
he said.
be steady."
could chew."
een president of Michigan Chrome
tremendous
asset
to
industry
Asked what specific actions he
The U.S. must be stronger
Huber
lives
in
Troy
ROBERT J. HUBER for U.S. Senator
"He Means Business"
Memo to: mr. Morton Blackwell
From: Bob Huber
Thought you might like tosee
the different approaches being taken
on the balanced budget issue.
+ think we'd all agree
the time has come to put
America's fiscal house in order,
and I support the President's
efforts in that area
file 1982 Electibe
Paid for by friends of Bob Huber
9732 Erwin Ave., Detroit, Mich. 48213(313) 571-9670
MICHIGAN PRESS
READING SERVICE
126 S. Putman, Williamston, Mich. 48895
PONTIAC, MI
OAKLAND PRESS
E-74,546
MAY- 5-82
Ruppe. Balanced budget amendment 'phony baloney
By HANK SCHALLER
154
That view is shared by Riegle
In comparison, former U.S.
balanced budget if that is the
Of The Oakland Press
"It seems to me the
as related by his press secretary
Rep. Robert J. Huber of Troy,
We may have gotten
only thing that can be done,
balanced budget
Mike Russell.
University of Michigan Regent
Ballenger explained
One of the leading contenders
A balanced budget
Deane Baker of Ann Arbor,
to the point where
"I'm certainly in favor of a
for the Republican U.S. Senate
amendment is
amendment is something to be
former state Sen. William
Congress has let the
balanced federal budget. At this
nomination has parted company
looked at at least two or three
Ballenger of Lansing, and the
point, though, I'm not certain
with the Reagan administration
geamg guys off the
years down the road," Russell
other GOP candidates, agree
budget get out of its
want to go the whole mile with a
over the for a
hook for not making
explained. "It has little bearing
with Reagan and basically
constitutional amendment. I'm
constitutional amendment
hands, however.
on the problems of today. What
support a Constitutional
always wary of tampering with
mandating a balanced federal
the hard decisions.
is more important is to keep a
Amendment mandating a
- William Ballenger
the Constitution. We may have
budget.
- Philip Ruppe
open dialogue between
balanced federal budget.
gotten to the point where
In fact, former U.S. Rep
President Reagan and
Huber said Congress is
force the U.S. Senate and House
Congress has let the budget get
Philip Ruppe of Houghton
baloney, Ruppe said Tuesday
congressional leaders on budget
already ignoring a law which
of Representatives to live within
out of its hands, however.
agrees more closely with the
It seems to me the balanced
talks."
required a balanced federal
its budget like responsible
For his part, Baker said he
stand of incumbent U.S. Sen
budget amendment is getting
Ruppe said a better control on
budget beginning in 1981.
citizens do. Huber explained.
supported the concept of a
Donald Riegle, D-Michigan, the
guys off the hook for not making
federal spending would be tax
"Since laws are designed to
While stressing he had some
balanced budget amendment as
man he hopes to unseat in
the hard decisions.
indexing which would wipe out
control people while constitution
reservations about a balanced
long as it was flexible enough to
November, than whis three
Any balanced budget
the benefits of inflation to the
amendments are passed to
federal budget amendment,
deal with national emergencies.
opponents foreithe GOP
amendment would be framed to
federal treasury. He explained
control governments, the
Ballenger said he could support
The concept would be good if
nomination.
have an out for politicians. It
federal revenues now increase
American people must now
the proposal.
for no other reason that it would
This balanced budget would be more promise than
1.6 percent for every percent of
initiate the process of a
"I have no problem living with
discipline the representatives
amendment is so much phony reality.
inflation.
constitutional amendment to
a
constitutionally required
and senators, Baker explained.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
June 7, 1982
to Morton B.
MEMORANDUM FOR RED CAVANEY
THRU:
DIANA LOZANO
FROM:
MORTON C. BLACKWELL MR
SUBJECT:
Grover Norquist's Group
Here is some material put out by
Grover Norquist's new group.
Lile
Have we put the Balanced Budget -
Tax Limitation Amendment on the
back burner?
Red morton- indicates balanced leudert 15th
no rally action this wich battle.
still pending because the of
pup. for budget
Diana
6/16
mort:
Dictation from
yester day.
A
Tyle
June 15, 1982
MEMORANDUM FOR THE RECORD
Unfortunately, the main concern of the NTLC leaders is that a
strong Presidential initiative on the balanced budget tax limitation
will steal their thunder. They resent the idea that the President
will jump on board the bandwagon. They did a good job in crafting
the amendment with the assistance of Milton Friedman and other
scholars, but they have no record of successful political organi-
zation. Uhler was the chief of the Proposition 1 Tax Limitation
campaign in California which went down to defeat: At that time,
his organization never even went back to the petition signers
and grassroots financial supporters of their campaign for assis-
tance in passing Proposition 1, which narrowly failed.
Our experience in dealing with the NTLC has amply demonstrated
that they are not well organized. Last year we helped them
out with a briefing which caused us more last minute emergencies
than virtually any other briefing we have undertaken.
The President will be perceived as leading on this and other
major issues as Franklin Roosevelt led the country in the 1930s.
Their suggestion that the President should wait until the Senate has
passed the Amendment and then give a speech -- outside of
Washington -- endorsing the amendment, is almost absurd. It is
certainly not in the best interest of the President.
If we go forward immediately with a major Presidential event
here in D. C., the NTLC has no alternative but to applaud the
President's support. Even private grumblings would be unbecoming
and seen by them as dangerous.
There is a big difference between battling for a proposition in
California and fighting a legislative battle. One major difference
is that elected politicians are not held accountable in referendum
- 2 -
battles. The National Right to Work Committee opposed almost
violently the effort which put a proposed Right to Work bill
on the statewide ballot in Missouri. Unlike the situation in
other states which have had battles in their state legislatures
over the Right to Work issue, the losing Right to work referendum
in Missouri a few years ago had absolutely no favorable impact
on subsequent legislative contests.
If the President goes out in front in behalf of this amendment, we
will swamp the Hill with favorable grassroots comments. There is
no likelihood that a comparable grassroots opposition to the
amendment can be mounted.
The NTLC leaders are simply not capable of organizing a massive
grassroots effort across the nation which would heighten voters'
awareness of how their legislators voted on the amendment. Only
a Presidentially-led grand coalition could accomplish this fully.
The NTLC leaders' argument that Presidential involvement would
hurt the amendment effort by making it appear to be partisan
is not a very serious point. It ought to be quite easy for the
President in his strong endorsement of the amendment to make it
crystal clear that he is not approaching this as a partisan issue.
He could single out for praise prominent Democrats not running
for reelection this year and prominent boll weevils, strongly
commending them for their support.
The final point the NTLC made is that the President will not be
helped if the amendment should lose in the Congress this year.
This is simply not SO. From the standpoint of the Congressional
elections, it is clear that supporters of the President would
benefit much more from the amendment issue in Congressional races
if the amendment had narrowly lost in the House. If the amendment
passes, the issue will effectively be moot in Congressional races
because the battle will be transferred to the state legislatures.
- 3 -
This is not to say that we should attempt to create a narrow loss
for the amendment. We should go all out to win on it, but the
argument that a loss after a good fight will hurt the President
simply does not stand up to analysis.
If we do go ahead with a major Presidential event in D. C., it
would be highly appropriate for the President to single out
Lew Uhler and the NTLC for special praise for the excellent
position they have done in bringing this important proposal
before the American people.
6-16-82
Submitted to Red Cavaney 12:00 N
Balanced
Budget
the
BALANCED BUDGET - TAX LIMITATION AMENDMENT
Mr. Paul Weyrich, Director 546-3000
Committee for Survival of a Free Congress
721 Second St. N. E.
Washington, D. C. 20012
Rev. Jerry Falwell, President (804) 528-4112
The Moral Majority
National Capitol Office
500 Alleghany Ave.
Lynchburg, VA 24501
Mr. John T. Dolan, National Director 522-2800
National Conservative Political Action Committee
1500 Wilson Blvd., Suite 513
Arlington, VA 22209
Mrs. Karen Davis, Director 817-429-6396
Christian Women's National Concerns 654-4022
Box 1224
Fort Worth, TX 75202
Mrs. Phyllis Schlafly, Chairman (618)
Eagle Forum
462-5415
68 Fairmount
Alton, Illinois 62002
Mr. Howard Phillips, Chairman 281-6782
The Conservative Caucus
422 Maple Avenue East
Vienna, VA 22180
Mr. Don Todd, Executive Director 546-6555
American Conservative Union
316 Pennsylvania Avenue S. E.
Washington, D. C. 20003
Mr., Lewis Uhler, President 393.2060
National Tax Limitation Committee
1523 L St. N. W.
Washington, D. C. 20005
Mr. James A. DAvidson, Chairman 543-1300
National Taxpayers Union
325 Pennsylvania Avenue, S. E.
Washington, D. C. 20003
7/21 Wayne - -
Dirk Van Dongen
President
74I
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
OF WHOLESALER-DISTRIBUTORS
ПАШ
1725 K Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20006
202/872-0885
DW
July 12, 1982
for
Morton
Senator Orrin Hatch
United States Senate
Blockfull
Washington, DC 20510
Russell Senate Office Building file
FYD
Dear Senator Hatch:
Way
This is to urge your support for S.J.Res.58, the proposed
Balanced Budget/Tax Limitation Constitutional Amendment.
In our view, this amendment is a responsible measure -- from
both an economic and constitutional perspective -- and would
establish in the Constitution fundamental principles of
political accountability.
S.J.Res.58 is a carefully crafted, consensus constitutional
proposal that will prove effective in eliminating the structural
bias toward greater public spending in our fiscal process,
while being sufficiently flexible to allow Congress to
properly respond to a variety of changing economic and
other circumstances.
At the same time that Congress is engaged in addressing
short-term economic problems, it is critical that efforts
also be made to address longer-term economic difficulties.
S.J.Res.58 represents such an effort and ought to be sup-
ported.
State legislatures, representative national organiza-
tions, and the public generally have all made increasingly
clear to Congress their desire for a constitutional amend-
ments to restore an environment of public fiscal responsibil-
ity. We would respectfully ask you to recognize these calls
and support S.J.Res.58. Although we do not know what amend-
ment may be offered to this measure, we would also ask you
to recognize the balance that has been achieved in S.J.Res.58
and view such amendments with great caution.
Sincerely,
National Tax Limitation Committee
American Bakers Association
American Council for Capital Formation
American Gear Manufacturers Association
American Subcontractors Association
Associated Builders and Contractors
Chamber of Commerce of the United States
Citizen's Choice
Independent Bakers Association
National Association of Homebuilders
National ASsociation of Manufacturers
National Association of Temporary Services
National Cattlemen's Association
National Federation of Independent: Business
National Knitwear Association
-2-
National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association
National Screw Machine Products Association
National Taxpayers Union
Steel Services Center Institute
United States Jaycees
National Association of Wholesaler - Distributors and
affiliated organizations:
Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Wholesalers
American Dental Trade Association
American Jewelry Distributors Association
American Machine Tool Distributors' Association
American Supply Association
American Surgical Trade Association
American Traffic Services Association
American Veterinary Distributors Association
Appliance Parts Distributors Association, Inc.
Associated Equipment Distributors
Association of Footwear Distributors
Association of Steel Distributors
Automotive Service Industry Association
Aviation Distributors & Manufacturers Association
Bearing Specialists Association
Beauty & Barber Supply Institute, Inc.
Bicycle Wholesale Distributors Association, Inc.
Biscuit & Cracker Distributors Association
Ceramic Tile Distributors Association
Ceramics Distributors of America
Coated Abrasives Fabricators Association
Cooperative Food Distributors of America
Copper & Brass Servicenter Association
Council for Periodical Distributors Association
Council of Wholesale-Distributors
American Institute of Kitchen Dealers
Distributors Council, Inc.
Door & Hardware Institute
Drug Wholesalers Association
Electrical-Flectronics Materials Distributors Assn.
Explosive Distributors Association, Inc.
Farm Equipment Wholesalers Association
Flat Glass Marketing Association
Fluid Power Distributors Association, Inc.
Food Industries Suppliers Association
Foodservice Equipment Distributors Association
General Merchandise Distributors Council
Hobby Industry Association of America
Independent Medical Distributors Association
The Irrigation Association
-3-
Institutional & Service Textile Distributors Association, Inc.
International Ceramic Association
Machinery Dealers National Association
Mass Merchandising Distributors Association
Material Handling Equipment Distribution Association
Monument Builders of North America-Wholesale Div.
Motorcycle Industry Council
Music Distributors Association
National-American Wholesale Grocers' Association
National Appliance Parts Suppliers Association
National Association of Aluminum Distributors
National Association of Chemical Distributors
National Association of Container Distributors
National Association of Decorative Fabric Distributors
National Association of Electrical Distributors
National Association of Fire Equipment Distributors
National Association of Floor Covering Distributors
National Association of Manufacturing Opticians
National Association of Marine Services, Inc.
National Association of Meat Purveyors
National Association of Plastics Distributors
National Association of Recording Merchandisers, Inc.
National Association of Service Merchandising
National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers
National Association of Textile & Apparel Distributors
National Association of Tobacco Distributors
National Association of Writing Instrument Distributors
National Beer Wholesalers Association
National Building Material Distributors Association
National Business Forms Association
National Candy Wholesalers Association
National Commercial Refrigeration Sales Association
National Electronic Distributors Association
National Fastener Distributors Association
National Food Distributors Association
National Frozen Food Association
National Independent Bank Equipment Suppliers Assn.
National Industrial Belting Association
National Industrial Glove Distributors Association
National Lawn & Garden Distributors Association
National Locksmiths' Suppliers Association
National Marine Distributors Association
National Paint Distributors, Inc.
National Paper Trade Association, Inc.
National Plastercraft Association
National Sash & Door Jobbers Association
National School Supply & Equipment Association
National Solid Wastes Management Association
National & Southern Industrial Distributors Associations
National Spa and Pool Institute
National Truck Equipment Association
National Welding Supply Association
National Wheel & Rim Association
National Wholesale Druggists' Association
National Wholesale Furniture Association
National Wholesale Hardware Association
Northamerican Heating & Airconditioning Wholesalers
-4-
North American Wholesale Lumber Association, Inc.
Optical Laboratories Association
Outdoor Power Equipment Distributors Association
Pet Industry Distributors Association
Petroleum Equipment Institute
Power Transmission Distributors Association, Inc.
Safety Equipment Distributors Association, Inc.
Scaffold Industry Association
Shoe Service Institute of America
Specialty Tools & Fasteners Distributors Association
Spring Service Association
Steel Service Center Institute
Textile Care Allied Trades Association
Toy Wholesalers' Association of America
United Pesticide Formulators & Distributors Association
Wallcovering Distributors Association
Warehouse Distributors Association for Leisure & Mobile Products
Watch Materials & Jewelry Distributors Association
Water and Sewer Distributors Association
Wholesale Florists & Florist Suppliers of America
Wholesale Stationers' Association, Inc.
Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America, Inc.
Wood Heating Alliance
Woodworking Machinery Distributors Association
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 15, 1982
file
MEMORANDUM FOR
DISTRIBUTION
FROM:
EDWIN J. GRAY Ba
SUBJECT:
BALANCED BUDGET AMENDMENT --
ISSUE UPDATE
Attached is a redraft of OPI's Issue Update on the Balanced
Budget/Tax Limitation Amendment which the President has
endorsed. Because of urgent deadlines facing the
distribution of the paper, I have to request any comments or
changes by 6 p.m. today.
If I do not hear from you, I will assume the paper meets
with your approval.
Thank you very much for your cooperation. I apologize for
the short deadline.
To:
James Jenkins
Roger Porter
Bill Barr
RN 191
Morton Blackwell
David Gerson
Eric Hemel
Michael Uhlmann
THE AMERICAN LOBBY
FOR PRESIDENT REAGAN'S BALANCED BUDGET AMENDMENT
July 15, 1982
The Honorable Morton C. Blackwell
Special Assistant to the President
for Public Liaison
The White HOuse
191, Old Executive Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr Winton ackwell:
On behalf of the American Lobby, and Mr. Donald Kendall,
National Co-Chairman of The American Lobby, I would like to
invite you to The American Lobby reception for our National
Advisory Committee, State Co-Chairmen, and State Advisory
Committee Members as part of the activities on July 19 to
inaugurate the American Lobby's drive toward Congressional
passage and State ratification of President Reagan's Balanced
Budget Amendment. The reception will be held from 5:30
p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 19, 1982, at The Capitol
Hill Club, 300 First Street, S.E., Washington, D.C.
I would be deeply honored if you could grant us the time in
your busy schedule to participate in The American Lobby's
first efforts in support of the President and a Balanced
Budget. Even if you must limit your visit to just a few
minutes, it would be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Andre Andre E. LeTendre
Executive Director
The American Lobby
for President Reagan's
Balanced Budget Amendment
R.S.V.P. 225-3865
Morton
FYF
LETS REBUILD, AMERICA
Chamber of Commerce
of the United States
NEWS
waye
1615 H Street, N.W.
RELEASE
Washington, D.C. 20062
file
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Frank Benson
Thursday, July 15, 1982
(202) 463-5682
NEW CHAMBER GALLUP SURVEY FINDS AMERICANS FAVOR
BALANCED BUDGET AMENDMENT BY THREE TO ONE
WASHINGTON, July 15 -- There is heavy public support for an amendment to the
Constitution which would both require a balanced budget and limit tax increases to no more
than the increase in Gross National Product (GNP) during the previous year.
This was among findings of the most recent U.S. Chamber/Gallup survey of consumer
attitudes toward a wide range of policy issues which was conducted last month.
By a ratio of three to one, respondents favored an amendment similar to the balanced
budget/tax limitation constitutional amendment now before the House of Representatives and
Senate. Respondents were asked their opinion of a two-part proposed amendment as follows:
I. Congress would not be allowed to approve a budget with an expected deficit unless:
(a) Both the House and Senate approve the budget by a three-fifths vote, or
(b) In the event of war
II. Federal tax increases could not be larger than the increase in the nation's total
output of goods and services (GNP) during the previous year.
Sixty-four percent of those polled responded they would favor such an amendment, while
only 20 percent would oppose it. Seventeen percent had no opinion.
Importantly, this support holds up along a wide cross-section of the public. Union
members favored it by a ratio of 63 percent to 24 percent, while non-union members favored it
64 percent to 19 percent.
Although it is not a survey finding, the fact that the only important source of
opposition to the amendment comes from the leadership of several major trade unions lends a
note of irony to the survey's finding of such strong support from union members.
Support for the amendment was also widespread among major income groups. Respondents
from families with incomes of $15,000 or less favored the amendment by 58 percent to 17 percent
Over $15,000, both support and opposition increased, respectively, to 68 percent and 22 percent.
The results are based on face-to-face interviews by the Gallup Organization with 1,504
adults, 18 years and older, conducted during June 11-14, 1982. It is very probably (95
chances out of 100) that the findings are within three percentage points of the figures that
would have been obtained if the entire adult population had been interviewed. Because of
sample size, the margin of error for subgroups is larger.
#####
(82-240)
NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS: Additional information and comments abount the survey are available
from the director of the Chamber's Research Survey Center, Dr. James Morris, (202) 463-5620.
Action
ISSUE: CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT TO LIMIT
TAXES AND BALANCE THE BUDGET
(H.J. RES. 350)
ACTION
Prompt contact. with your Representative.
NEEDED:
Urge him to sign the discharge petition
needed to break the big spenders' control
Call
over H.J. Res. 350, and bring it to a
vote on the House floor.
July 9, 1982
Despite intense efforts by the President and his supporters in Congress to limit
Federal spending growth, the federal budget is still out of control and triple-digit
deficits are expected in both fiscal years 1982 and 1983.
Indeed, deficit spending has become the normal state of affairs in federal budgeting.
Since 1950, the budget has been in deficit for 26 of 31 years, and has run a surplus
in only one of the past 21 fiscal years. Although most politicians pay lip service
to the goal of balancing the budget, their actual votes on spending programs move
the country further and further from this goal.
This pattern of rampant deficit spending is a recent phenomenon. For most of our
history, balancing the budget was considered a major obligation of government, even
though unstated in the Constitution. When deficits were incurred, usually as a
result of war-related expenditures, efforts were made to restore balance by running
subsequent surpluses. The deficits of the Civil War were followed by 28 years of
surpluses. The deficits of World War I were followed by 10 years of surpluses.
As is evident from recent patterns of budgeting, the government's sense of fiscal
discipline has greatly diminished -- some say disappeared -- over the past three
decades. Electoral mandates for lower spending have been ineffective in slowing
budget growth. Public opinion polls showing strong support for greater spending
cuts are disregarded by Congressmen eager to preserve and expand pet projects and
programs. Statutes and resolutions calling for smaller deficits and limited spending
are routinely passed and routinely ignored by Congress.
Obviously, something stronger is needed to limit Congress' propensity to spend
and tax. A constitutional mandate to balance the budget is an important first step
in finding a solution to this problem.
BACKGROUND
Persistent and expanding levels of deficit spending have made it painfully evident
that something is fundamentally wrong with the government's budget process. It is
clear that the failure to limit spending growth stems from an inherent bias in the
budget process toward ever-increasing spending.
The number of entitlement program beneficiaries has increased rapidly relative to
the number of taxpayers, and the cost of such programs has risen even faster.
At the same time, Congress has become increasingly reluctant to make the necessary
changes in automatic entitlement programs to hold back the excessive growth in transfer
payments.
(over)
FOR THE NATIONAL CHAMBER'S CONGRESSIONAL ACTION SYSTEM
CHAMBER EDADE OF COMMERCE
Legislative Department / Chamber of Commerce of the United States / 1615 H Street NW / Washington DC 20062
STATES
UNITED
- 2 -
The chief cause of this bias is the imbalance of power between special interest
groups and the general taxpayer, the individual. The so-called "needs" of each
special interest group are heard loud and clear -- and taken separately, the cost
of each special program to the taxpayer is relatively small. This encourages Congress
to satisfy the vocal and well organized special interests at the expense of the
taxpayer. Taken collectively, the costs of funding these programs have added up
to an oppressive tax burden and record level deficits.
This systematic bias in the political system in favor of tax spenders versus tax
payers is encouraged by the fact that it has been unnecessary for Congress to
confront explicitly the consequences of its excessively generous spending decisions
by voting for tax increases. Tax increases have occurred automatically as a result
of the progressive tax system and the inflation that has pushed American workers
into higher and higher tax brackets.
This pro-spending bias cannot be rectified within existing Congressional authority.
Given the scope of the problem and the record of failure in limiting spending growth,
a constitutional mandate is needed to restore balance to the budget process.
HOW THE AMENDMENT WOULD WORK
The purpose of the amendment is to make the budget process more responsive, more
neutral and more democratic. It would do this by eliminating the structural bias
toward increased levels of spending that is now built into the political system.
H.J. Res. 350, the Balanced Budget/Tax Limitation Constitutional Amendment, restores
this balance by limiting both deficits and tax increases. It limits growth in taxes
by requiring that the increase in taxes in any given fiscal year be no greater than
the prior calendar year's growth in national income. It thus ends excessive and
automatic increases in the tax burden.
H.J. Res. 350 restrains deficits by a combination of two of its provisions. First,
Congress must plan a balanced budget: planned outlays must be no greater than
planned receipts. This is the basic balanced budget provision of the amendment.
Second, actual outlays may not exceed planned outlays. This is the absolute require-
ment of the amendment. The basic requirements of a balanced budget and of tax
increases limited to the growth in national income can be overcome by other provi-
sions of this amendment, but this cannot.
H.J. Res. 350 is sufficiently flexible to allow Congress to override some provisions
of the amendment in the event that a prolonged recession or threat of war necessitates
deficit spending. For such reasons, and any others that the Congress may consider
appropriate, an unbalanced budget statement can be adopted. It must, however, be
adopted explicitly by a vote on that subject alone. Congress can vote to accept a
deficit if three-fifths of the full membership of both houses feel such a deficit
is necessary. It allows a simple majority of the full membership plus the President
to approve an increase in taxes in excess of the rate of increase in the prior year's
national income.
In conclusion, H.J. Res. 350 would restore to the budget process the essential
balance between tax spenders and tax payers, and impose on Congress the fiscal disci-
pline that has been absent for several decades. It would thus end the seemingly
automatic process of expanding the federal sector and increasing the tax burden,
causing chronic deficits.
- 3 -
LEGISLATIVE STATUS
H.J. Res. 350 (Conable, R-N.Y., Jenkins, D-Ga.) has 223 cosponsors. Despite the
endorsement of a majority of the House, opposition by the Democratic leaders has
led Rep. Rodino (D-N.J.) to use his power as Chairman of the Juciciary Committee to
bottle the legislation up in his committee, preventing the full House from voting on it.
Such an antidemocratic power play can be overcome, however, with a little-used
legislative procedure called a "discharge petition." The petition, when signed by
a majority of the members, discharges the committee from consideration of the bill
and the bill would be brought before the full House with no further delay.
ACTION NEEDED
Prompt contact with your Representative. Urge him/her to sign the discharge petition
needed to bring H.J. Res. 350 before the full House. In addition, if not now a co-
sponsor (see list below), urge him/her to become one.
Regardless of whether your Representative is in favor of H.J. Res. 350, the discharge
petition merits signing. A balanced budget amendment is too important to keep
bottled up in committee. The full House must be given an opportunity to debate the
proposal publicly and vote on it.
Tell your Representative you are fed up with persistent deficit spending and
H.J. Res. 350 is the only viable alternative to a flawed budget process that has
allowed federal spending to surge out of control. Prompt communication is essential.
For further information, call Dr. Ron Utt (202) 463-5620.
Distribution: Selected business members, corporate CAC chairmen, local chamber CAC
execs, Washington corporate reps, state chamber execs.
Address for all Representatives: The Honorable
, House of Representatives,
Washington, D. C. 20515. Phone for all: (202) 224-3121.
REPRESENTATIVES WHO HAVE NOT COSPONSORED H.J. RES. 350
Addabbo, Joseph - NY
Bethune, Edwin - AR
Byron, Beverly - MD
Akaka, Daniel - HI
Biaggi, Mario - NY
Chisholm, Shirley - NY
Albosta, Donald - MI
Bingham, Jonathan - NY
Clay, William - MO
Alexander, Bill - AR
Blanchard, James - MI
Collins, Cardiss - IL
Anderson, Glenn - CA
Boggs, Lindy - LA
Conte, Silvio - MA
Annunzio, Frank - IL
Boland, Edward - MA
Conyers, John - MI
Anthony, Beryl - AR
Bolling, Richard - MO
Coyne, William - PA
Applegate, Doug - OH
Boner, William - TN
Crockett, George - MI
Aspin, Les - WI
Bonior, David - MI
de la Garza, E - TX
Ashbrook, Jean - OH
Bonker, Don - WA
Dellums, Ron - CA
Au Coin, Les - OR
Breaux, John - LA
De Nardis, Larry - CT
Bailey, Wendell - MO
Brodhead, William - MI
Derwinski, Ed - IL
Barnes, Michael - MD
Brooks, Jack - TX
Dicks, Norman - WA
Bedell, Berkley - IA
Brown, George - CA
Dingell, John - MI
Beilenson, Anthony - CA
Burton, John - CA
Dixon, Julian - CA
Benjamin, Adam - IL
Burton, Phillip - CA
Donnelly, Brian - MA
(over)
- 4 -
Dorgan, Byron - ND
Kemp, Jack - NY
Rahall, Nick Joe - WV
Dougherty, Charles - PA
Kennelly, Barbara - CT
Rangel, Charles - NY
Dowdy, Wayne - MS
Kildee, Dale - MI
Ratchford, William - CT
Downey, Thomas - NY
Kogovsek, Ray - CO
Regula, Ralph - oH
Dunn, Jim - MI
LaFalce, John - NY
Reuss, Henry - WI
Dwyer, Bernard - NJ
Lantos, Tom - CA
Rhodes, John - AZ
Dymally, Mervyn - CA
Lehman, William - FL
Richmond, Fred - NY
Early, Joe - MA
Leland, Mickey - TX
Rinaldo, Matthew = NJ
Eckart, Dennis - OH
Long, Clarence - MD
Roe, Robert - NJ
Edgar, Robert - PA
Long, Gillis - LA
Rosenthal, Ben - NY
Edwards, Don - CA
Lowry, Michael - WA
Rostenkowski, Dan - IL
Emery, David - ME
Luken, Thomas - OH
Roukema, Marge - NJ
Erlenborn, John - IL
Lundine, Stanley - NY
Roybal, Edward - CA
Ertel, Allen - PA
McClory, Robert - IL
Russo, Marty - IL
Evans, Billy Lee 1 GA
McHugh, Matthew - NY
Sabo, Martin - MN
Fary, John - IL
McKinney, Stewart - CT
St Germain, Fernand - RI
Fascell, Dante - FL
Markey, Edward - MA
Savage, Gus - IL
Fazio, Vic - CA
Marks, Marc - PA
Scheuer, James - NY
Ferraro, Geraldine - NY
Matsui, Robert - CA
Schneider, Claudine - RI
Fish, Hamilton - NY
Mattox, Jim - TX
Schumer, Charles - NY
Fithian, Floyd - IN
Mavroules, Nicholas - MA
Seiberling, John - OH
Florio, James - NJ
Mazzoli, Romano - KY
Shamansky, Bob - OH
Foglietta, Thomas - PA
Mica, Dan - FL
Shannon, James - MA
Foley, Thomas - WA
Mikulski, Barbara - MD
Sharp, Philip - IN
Ford, William - MI
Miller, George - CA
Simon, Paul - IL
Frank, Barney - MA
Mineta, Norman - CA
Smith, Joseph - PA
Frost, Martin - TX
Minish, Joseph - NJ
Smith, Neal - IA
Fuqua, Don - FL
Mitchell, Parren - MD
Solarz, Stephen - NY
Garcia, Robert - NY
Moakley, Joe - MA
Stanton, William - OH
Gaydos, Joseph - PA
Moffett, Toby - CT
Stark, Fortney - CA
Gejdenson, Sam - CT
Molinari, Guy - NY
Stokes, Louis - OH
Gephardt, Richard - MO
Mollohan, Robert - WV
Stratton, Sam - NY
Gilman, Benjamin - NY
Mottl, Ron - OH
Studds, Gerry - MA
Gonzalez, Henry - TX
Murphy, Austin - PA
Swift, Allan - WA
Gore, Albert - TN
Murtha, John - PA
Synar, Mike - OK
Gray, William - PA
Myers, John - IN
Traxler, Bob - MI
Green, William - NY
Natcher, William - KY
Udall, Morris - AZ
Guarini, Frank - NJ
Nelligan, James - PA
Vento, Bruce - MN
Hall, Tony - OH
Nelson, Bill - FL
Walgren, Doug - PA
Hamilton, Lee - IN
Nowak, Henry - NY
Washington, Harold - IL
Harkin, Tom - IA
Oakar, Mary Rose - OH
Waxman, Henry - CA
Hawkins, Augustus - CA
Oberstar, James - MN
Weaver, James - OR
Heckler, Margaret - MA
Obey, David - WI
Weiss, Theodore - NY
Heftel, Cecil - HI
O'Neill, Thomas - MA
Whitten, Jamie - MS
Hertel, Dennis - MI
Ottinger, Richard - NY
Williams, Lyle - OH
Hollenbeck, Harold - NJ
Panetta, Leon - CA
Wirth, Tim - CO
Howard, James - NJ
Pashayan, Charles - CA
Wolpe, Howard - MI
Hoyer, Steny - MD
Patman, William - TX
Wortley, George - NY
Hughes, William - NJ
Patterson, Jerry - CA
Wright, Jim - TX
Hyde, Henry - IL
Pease, Donald - OH
Wyden, Ron - OR
Jeffords, James - VT
Pepper, Claude - FL
Yates, Sidney - IL
Jenkins, Ed - GA
Perkins, Carl - KY
Yatron, Gus - PA
Jones, James - OK
Peyser, Peter - NY
Young, Robert - MO
Kastenmeier, Robert - WI
Price, Melvin - IL
Zablocki, Clement - WS
Kazen, Abraham - TX
Pritchard, Joel - WA
Zeferetti, Leo - NY
#
WITHDRAWAL SHEET
Ronald Reagan Library
Collection Name
Withdrawer
BLACKWELL, MORTON: FILES
RB 2/28/2011
W
File Folder
FOIA
BALANCED BUDGET AMENDMENT (1 OF 3)
F06-0055/07
POTTER, CLAIRE
Box Number
OA 9075
2
DOC Document Type
No of Doc Date Restric-
NO Document Description
pages
tions
1
LIST
2
ND
B6
RE. ATTENDEES FOR WHITE HOUSE BRIEFING
ON 7/19/82
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
B-1 National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
B-2 Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
B-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
B-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
B-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
B-7 Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
B-8 Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
B-9 Release would disclose geological or geophysical information concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of gift.