Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) released the statement below following President Obama’s speech to a joint session of Congress, during which he proposed the American Jobs Act – a new plan to boost job creation:
“Tonight, President Obama outlined a much-needed plan to spur job growth in America. I was especially pleased to hear the President call for tax incentives for businesses that hire, which is something I’ve been fighting for. I’ve heard from Rhode Island business owners who are looking to expand, but just aren’t sure they can afford to do so, and these tax incentives could make a real difference. I also enthusiastically support the President’s call for investing in our transportation infrastructure to create good construction jobs, and for efforts to help our troops to find work after they return from combat.
“Tonight’s speech was a positive step, but getting this legislation passed will require a sustained effort by the President and Congress. Rhode Islanders I’ve heard from want us to create jobs now. We can’t let this proposal get bogged down by the same old Washington delay tactics. I’ll keep fighting for Rhode Islanders who are struggling in this tough economy.”
Earlier this year Whitehouse introduced the Job Creation Tax Credit Act, which would offer employers a refundable tax credit for hiring unemployed workers, and has been an enthusiastic proponent of upgrading America’s roads, bridges, waterworks, and other infrastructure. President Obama’s plan includes a version of the Job Creation Tax Credit Act, calling for a $4,000 tax credit to employers for hiring long-term unemployed workers.
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