Lujan Supports Economic Recovery, Job Creation in New Mexico

Press Release

Lujan Supports Economic Recovery, Job Creation in New Mexico

Today, Rep. Ben Ray Luján voted for the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan that will invest millions of dollars in New Mexico and could create or save over 16,000 jobs in the state. The $825 billion plan would invest in communities throughout the state, providing funds for schools, infrastructure projects, and other projects that will immediately assist New Mexico's families. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan passed the House 244-188.

"The people of New Mexico need relief in these difficult economic times," said Luján. "The American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan will help communities and families throughout New Mexico who need help the most. The recovery plan focuses on job creation through infrastructure projects, renewable energy development, school modernization and other important projects that will help many communities and put people back to work. I look forward to maintaining an open dialogue with local leaders as the recovery plan moves forward and begins to impact the people of New Mexico."

"It is important we all work together to maximize the impact of this recovery package," said Luján. "As we implement this plan, I will continue to work with local leaders and officials to create jobs in New Mexico and get our economy back on track."

Renewable Energy and Green Jobs

"The American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan will more than double our renewable energy production and improve energy efficiency in buildings across the country," said Luján, who is a member of the Committee on Science and Technology, which will work on research and development issues regarding new renewable energy technology. "The plan will create more than 500,000 green energy jobs and help grow a clean energy economy. With a focus on creating a smart grid, encouraging renewable energy development through extended production tax credits, and modernizing homes and offices through weatherization and energy efficiency—the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan will make a commitment to a new green energy economy and change the way our country generates energy."

Education Improvements

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan would put an estimated $329 million into New Mexico's K-12 schools, $281 million into highway and bridge projects, and $28.5 million into the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan will invest quickly into the economy to get it moving again—75% of the package will payout in the first 18 months. "The recovery package includes important components that will help modernize schools, rebuild our infrastructure and create new jobs in New Mexico," said Luján. "We must make sure that our students have the ability to get a good education for the jobs of the future, and the recovery package will help us achieve this goal."

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