Retiring Rep. Jim Gerlach is heading to Venable LLP, where the Pennsylvania Republican will join other former lawmakers such as Rep. Bart Stupak, D-Mich., and Sen. Birch Bayh, D-Ind., in the legislative and government affairs firm.  

Gerlach joined the Ways and Means Committee in 2011, and served on the Select Revenue and Health Subcommittees during that time. With tax reform possibly high on the agenda in the 114th Congress, and Republicans in charge of both chambers, Gerlach’s experience could come in handy at Venable.  “Venable is one of the most respected names in Washington with an especially strong record of leadership in government affairs,” the six-term Philadelpia-area member said in a release. “I have had the opportunity over the years to work with several Venable attorneys and advisors, especially Legislative Practice Group Co-Chairs, Will Nordwind and Rob Smith, and I look forward to working with them in the challenging legislative environment ahead.”  

The congressman has opposed the excise tax on medical devices in the Affordable Care Act — an aspect of the law that has seen opposition on both sides of the aisle — saying  in a 2011 Roll Call op-ed with Rep. Erik Paulsen, R-Minn., that the “tax hits well-established companies and startup businesses that are suffering losses in their initial years while they invest heavily in the research and development of their first innovation for patients.”  

The 114th: CQ Roll Call’s Guide to the New Congress


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