Economic Recovery Package Invests in Those Hardest Hit by the Economy

Floor Speech

ECONOMIC RECOVERY PACKAGE INVESTS IN THOSE HARDEST HIT BY ECONOMY -- (House of Representatives - January 27, 2009)

Mr. COHEN. Mr. Speaker, as the economic recession worsens, millions of Americans are in financial trouble and looking for some immediate assistance, but help is on the way. Tomorrow this House will vote on the Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Act that will provide 3 to 4 million jobs here in America.

Those hit hardest by the economic crisis are the ones we need to help first, and we are doing that by extending unemployment benefits to people in America, millions who are still looking for jobs. It is difficult to find a job when thousands are being cut. Yesterday a record number of jobs were cut.

Economists say one of the best ways to stimulate the economy is to put the money in the hands of people who will spend it immediately, spend it on necessities, and that's people who are out of work. That's something we are going to do.

It's also critical to give those people health insurance, and we will provide the States with money so that they can continue to provide Medicaid to those people who need that assistance. There are nearly 7 million unemployed Americans who need health insurance through COBRA. That will also be extended.

Mr. Speaker, this economic recession has hurt millions. This Congress will respond and provide assistance.

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