The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“HONORING RUFUS SAMES FOR HIS TIRELESS WORK TO BETTER THE LIVES OF MAINERS” mentioning the U.S. Dept of Labor was published in the Extensions of Remarks section on pages E64 on Jan. 13, 2017.
The Department provides billions in unemployment insurance, which peaked around 2011 though spending had declined before the pandemic. Downsizing the Federal Government, a project aimed at lowering taxes and boosting federal efficiency, claimed the Department funds "ineffective and duplicative services" and overregulates the workplace.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING RUFUS SAMES FOR HIS TIRELESS WORK TO BETTER THE LIVES OF
MAINERS
_____
HON. CHELLIE PINGREE
of maine
in the house of representatives
Friday, January 13, 2017
Ms. PINGREE. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize a tireless advocate in my state who is retiring after nearly two decades of working to improve the lives of his fellow Mainers.
In 1997, Rufus Sames began his 19-year career with the Maine Department of Labor, starting as a Claims Taker and ending as a Labor Program Specialist. Through it all, he has lifted the burdens of claimants, employers, and advocates with prompt help, good information, and a deep understanding of the stresses individuals and families face navigating the maze of benefits following job loss and transition.
For years, whenever my staff has had a question about unemployment benefits in my state, Rufus was there to respond, often with a message sent in the wee hours of the morning when he arrived at his desk at the crack of dawn. He has been tireless, good-hearted, efficient, and effective, and will be missed immeasurably.
Public servants like Rufus are unsung heroes. He has touched many lives with his can-do spirit and deep commitment to serving the people of Maine.
I wish him all the best in his retirement and thank him wholeheartedly.
____________________
