CWA: Economic Stimulus is All About Jobs

CWA leaders say that the stimulus program that President Obama signed this week is a good investment in America's economic recovery.  By expanding job opportunities for working Americans – especially in critical areas like broadband build out and other infrastructure investment – this plan will get the economy moving again, said CWA President Larry Cohen.   

The economic recovery plan includes:

• More than $7 billion in federal grants to expand broadband Internet access in rural and underserved areas, as well as $350 million in funding for broadband data mapping.
• Nearly $54 billion for states for fiscal stabilization, plus funding for state and local governments for transportation, infrastructure, education, health care and other critical needs. 
• $50 billion for energy programs, much of it focused on energy efficiency and renewable energy, including $2 billion for advanced battery manufacturing.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is expected to create or save 3.5 million jobs.

 "We commend President Obama and Congress for moving quickly to put Americans back to work, but also for their long term vision for America's economic future," Cohen said. "These investments, specifically for broadband build out and those that help build a green economy, will ensure that more Americans can take advantage of the promise of the Information Age and enable us to build a sustainable economy that leaves our nation cleaner for future generations."