Gov. Gregoire's Statement on Federal Jobs Package

Press Release

Gov. Chris Gregoire today released the following statement urging Congress to act quickly on a jobs package that includes an extension of the Federal Medicaid Assistance Percentages (FMAP) funds and other programs that will continue to help states recover from the national recession:

"I am certainly aware of the pressure our congressional leaders are facing in the other Washington. Like them, I am too familiar with the struggles of deciding which government programs to support with tax payer dollars, while protecting our limited resources to maintain a strong financial footing as our state and nation move forward from the worst recession since the Great Depression. With that said, there's no question that the programs Congress is currently considering will provide substantial help to our citizens, while ensuring economic growth.

"Washington state has a lot at stake in a comprehensive federal jobs package -- including nearly $500 million in FMAP money, as well as the extension of unemployment benefits for those looking for work and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program to help and provide work opportunities for struggling families. Each one of these programs has proven to create jobs while preventing our state from making further cuts that would hinder economic growth.

"Additionally, the package includes the extension of the Build America Bonds program. This program has helped Washington state alone save tens of millions of dollars in construction costs, and has created living-wage jobs to build the infrastructure we need to help our state and businesses thrive and grow in the 21st century economy.

"I urge Congress to work together to pass a package quickly. Our citizens, our communities and states across the nation are running out of time."

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