Weekly Update from Senator John Ensign
February 11 - February 17, 2008: Ensign Tours Iraq and Afghanistan, Services for Nevadans, and Ensign Clarifies Tax Code for Precious Metals Investment

Ensign Tours Iraq and Afghanistan
Over the weekend I traveled to Iraq and Afghanistan with two of my Senate colleagues. I remain in constant awe of our servicemen and –women and was proud to meet with Nevadans serving our nation overseas. I saw tremendous progress in Iraq and I was most moved by the resilience of the Iraqi people. The people of Iraq are making great strides in taking an active role in the military and democratic political developments in their country. I am very optimistic about the future of Iraq in the hands of the Iraqi people. However, regarding Afghanistan, I believe there may need to be a change of strategy. Our American forces are taking incredible steps forward in the areas under our command, but those areas controlled by the multi-national forces are not progressing in the direction needed to keep the country stable. We must make sure that Afghanistan will someday enjoy the same opportunities for success that are being seen in Iraq.

Services for Nevadans
One of the most rewarding aspects of my job as a United States Senator is helping Nevadans. Nearly 17,000 constituent cases have been resolved by my staff in Nevada and Washington, D.C. over the last seven years. I encourage all Nevadans to contact my office with any request or question that you may have. Whether you want for the flag of the United States flown over the Capitol in honor of a loved one, need information on traveling to our nation’s capital, are having trouble with bureaucratic red tape, or have an opinion on an issue facing the Senate, my staff and I are here to serve your needs. Please click on the link below for more information on constituent services and do not hesitate to call one of my offices for more information.

Senator Ensign's Services For Nevadans Page

Ensign Clarifies Tax Code for Precious Metals Investment
This week I introduced legislation aimed at clarifying the tax code to remove unintentional barriers that currently prevent mutual funds from investing in securities backed by precious metals, such as gold and silver. Because our tax code has not been updated, current law inadvertently discourages certain investments in precious metals. As a result of my bill, individuals and pension plans that invest through mutual funds will have access to these types of investments in bullion. Mining is an important component to the economy in Nevada, and investment in precious metals should not be discouraged because Congress has not updated the tax code to reflect market developments.

Sincerely, John Ensign United States Senator