Economic Stimulus Plan Offers New Promise for America’s Future

Contact:  Candice Johnson, CWA Communications, 202-434-1347 or cjohnson@cwa-union.org

The stimulus bill that President Obama signed today is a good investment in America's economic recovery.  It is all about jobs, and 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.   

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.  High speed networks are the economic engine of the 21st century and these funds will move the United States closer to a comprehensive broadband network.

·  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.

"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," said CWA President Larry Cohen. "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."

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The Communications Workers of America represents 700,000 workers in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. It's one of America's fastest growing unions. CWA members work in communications, media, airlines, manufacturing and public service.