Congressman Bright's Statement on H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

Statement

Congressman Bright's Statement on H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act:

"Today, I voted against the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. While I believe that we need to pass a bill that helps Americans keep their jobs and create new opportunities for work, after serious consideration I decided that this bill was not the way to achieve this very important goal. I applaud this legislation's inclusion of the small business tax provisions contained in my first bill and I think there are many worthwhile investments in infrastructure and education, but I remain unconvinced that the benefits of H.R. 1 outweigh its considerable costs.
"I feel strongly that the American people must have confidence that a recovery package is worth its tremendous price tag. Congress could have done this by simply focusing on investments in infrastructure and targeted tax relief for individuals and small businesses, but this legislation includes billions in additional spending that will have little effect on the economy. Many of these programs are worthwhile, but they do not belong in an economic recovery package.
"While we must act in a timely manner, it is more important to be a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars and ensure that our actions are the right ones. I am hopeful that Republicans and Democrats in the House and Senate will be able to make the necessary changes to produce a bill that helps jump start the economy."

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