ECONOMIC STIMULUS -- (House of Representatives - September 28, 2008)
Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, this week, the crisis on Wall Street hits fever pitch, but families all over the country have been struggling for months. Eighty-four thousand Americans lost their jobs last month, and the number of unemployed Americans is the highest it has been since 1992. Congress responded quickly to the White House's call for a financial rescue package, but the White House should now join us in supporting a solid package for Main Street.
On Friday, the House passed legislation to boost our economy, to create jobs and to help provide additional relief to families who are struggling. The economic recovery bill will grow our economy and will create jobs through investment in our Nation's infrastructure, will extend unemployment benefits for the growing number of Americans looking for work and will ensure Americans do not lose health coverage as a result of State budget crises.
Mr. Speaker, the majority of House Republicans oppose this Main Street economic recovery package, and I hope President Bush chooses a different course. We have to have the economic stimulus package not only pass the House but pass the Senate and go to the President and have him sign it. This is just as important as the Wall Street bailout.